Global and Intercultural Learning

Reflect on your own cultural identity and why you want to become more culturally and globally aware by exploring different cultures though coursework, events, or programs like study abroad. Use Global Hub tool to learn more about things like earning a global distinction, learning a new language, volunteering, studying abroad, and more.  

When exploring goals that involve studying abroad, the Global Experiences Office has an in-depth list of FAQs that students find helpful. However, it’s essential students meet with their SCI academic advisor and preferably someone in the Global Hub a year in advance of applying to opportunities. Honors College students should consult with a member of their global learning team, especially if they’re looking to fulfill their experiential learning requirement. These advisors can help students understand the types of opportunities (courses, programs, etc.) available, when to participate in them, the impact on their graduation date (if any), as well as their course or credit obligations. They may also be able to assist with specialized coursework and funding-related questions.  

The Global Experience Office has a searchable directory including program information, eligibility requirements, deadlines, cost, and more for over 350 study abroad programs in 75 countries. For tech-focused experiences, SCI partners with schools like the Swanson School of Engineering on trips, such as the FAME program in France and the Plus3 program, offered exclusively to first-year students. The Honors College hosts programs open to all students, like the Queen’s University trip, as well as others only available to their students. 

Community-based learning, like volunteering for organizations that work with international communities (like refugees or non-profits) or faculty that focus on global issues or social innovation projects are great ways to gain more experience while making a positive social impact.

Internships
Take a company first approach, focusing on companies with an international presence. Utilize sites like GoinGlobal, Interstride, and Handshake to apply for opportunities, create international company lists, attend helpful webinars, and more.

Research
Reach out to faculty within SCI and Pitt who are conducting the work internationally and/or with global populations as a starting point. It’s possible the work could be associated with a course, like an undergraduate capstone project. If students are in the Honors College [link here], there are additional opportunities available, as well as possible funding. After college, there are opportunities like the Fulbright Program that are awarded to highly competitive applicants to conduct research and continue their studies abroad.  

Global and intercultural learning experiences can provide clues as to whether a student might want to work abroad or for a company with an international presence, pick up an additional credential like a certificate, or just be a more culturally competent person. Pitt’s Career Center can assist with career planning and ensure that the experiences are translatable to employers in resumes and in interviews.