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Share your experiences abroad & grow your professional network

The Global Networks Program builds awareness of the study abroad opportunities offered by the SIS Office of International Programs (OIP) and engages with the vibrant international student population at SIS through student outreach, community engagement and a variety of events held each semester.

Please Note: As of Spring 2020, the Global Networks Program is not currently accepting new applications.

Goals

  • To provide a forum for students to share their study abroad and international exchange experiences
  • To increase graduate student interest in study abroad
  • To offer a supportive environment for SIS international exchange graduate students
  • To offer opportunities for program members to enhance their professional and personal skill sets 
  • With ongoing support from OIP, to create a program that becomes primarily a student-run group

Why Join?

  • Enhance your resume with skills such as event planning, intercultural communication, and public speaking
  • Grow your professional network by leading events and building connections with the greater AU community
  • Become eligible for a recommendation letter from OIP (after at least one successful semester in Global Networks)

Program Structure

SIS graduate students may apply to be either a Peer Advisor or International Student Mentor.

All members must commit to the following:

  • One semester of participation with the Global Networks Program
  • Attend training with OIP staff to learn about Program expectations in depth
  • Allow your profile to be posted on the Global Networks Program website
  • Write one blog post and/or news article for the OIP Weekly Bulletin and/or website

Application Deadlines

Fall: July 1

Spring: December 1

Questions?

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out via email. Your message will be directed to a relevant OIP staff member.

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Peer Advisors                                     

  • Coordinate or attend at least two on-campus events/activities per semester (one must be in the classroom) promoting the OIP study abroad programs
  • Participate in the OIP Pre-Departure meeting held once per semester
  • Respond to prospective student inquires interested in studying abroad
  • Help coordinate the OIP annual photo contest
  • Must be a returned study abroad graduate student from an SIS study abroad semester or dual degree program or an international graduate student from a partner institution.

International Student Mentor

  • Introduce yourself to your mentee via email before they arrive
  • Schedule an in-person welcome with your assigned mentee within one week of on-campus arrival
  • As a group of mentors, plan one gathering for all SIS international students per semester
  • Include your mentee in at least one university event/activity per semester
  • Check in with OIP staff twice per semester to provide any feedback on mentee’s adjustment
  • Attend GNP orientation
  • Must be a current SIS Graduate student who has studied at AU for at least one semester. Open to domestic students, international degree-seeking students, and incoming exchange students.