Learning Communities
Giovanna Summerfield, Professor and Associate Dean for Educational Affairs, College of Liberal Arts
The Global Ambassadors learning community attracts students who are interested in exploring other cultures, examining global current events, travel abroad or pursuing a career that will place them around the world. Since all Auburn students are encouraged to have a global experience during their time at Auburn, Giovanna Summerfield developed this learning community in 2010 to both offer students that experience and prepare them for other opportunities such as study abroad, alternative breaks and related academic majors and minors. Linked courses include World History I and II, Global Geography and Global Fluency and Awareness, a special seminar course designed for the community.
"One of the main successes is not only the fact that students’ pre and post cross-cultural self-assessments have shown an improvement for culture and global awareness but also that some of them have opted for academic paths in foreign languages, international business and global cultures whether through a major or a minor," Summerfield said.
International Students as Ambassadors
World Cultural Ambassador Program, International Cultural Center
The World Cultural Ambassador Program is a leadership program that offers international students the opportunity to represent and promote the International Cultural Center’s programs and events and increase awareness and participation within the campus community. W-CAP ambassadors help with outreach and dissemination of information via email and on social media, and help organize programs and seminars. The program helps to develop their personal skills, a sense of responsibility and confidence. The program also helps increase a sense of connectedness to campus as they meet and interact with new people and organizations.
Learn more about the World Cultural Ambassador Program.
The Great Convergence
Connecting World Cultures and Heritages, Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
This non-credit course utilizes student ambassadors to educate and share information about their countries of origin with OLLI participants. The course focuses on different countries from each of the world’s continents and discusses elements of its culture including customs, traditions, art, symbols, food, music, religions and beliefs. The course explores the commonalities and differences of a wide range of unique ideas, strengths and perspectives that each cultural group provides. The course is offered virtually for the fall 2020 semester and it features discussions with natives of the featured country. The course underscores how an appreciation of cultural diversity promotes understanding, builds relationships and enriches community life.
Co-Curricular Programs
Korean Buddy Program, Korea Center – King Sejong Institute
In this immersive language and culture oriented program, domestic students are paired with native Korean speakers to exchange knowledge and experiences while building a friendship. Buddies are encouraged to take photos while they are spending time together and the “Best Buds” will receive a prize at the end of the semester. Students are encouraged to sign up with a friend so they can enjoy the fun of learning a new culture and making new friends together.
Learn more about the . Korean Buddy Program
Global Medallion
Auburn University Global Medallion Program
The Auburn University Global Medallion offers students a way to demonstrate a global mindset and intercultural skills to potential employers. Offered by the Office of International Programs, the Global Medallion is a microcredential encompassing coursework, a study abroad experience and co-curricular activities.
Learn more about the Global Medallion Program.
