Student International Service Learning: Making a Difference and Changing Lives

The Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health is committed to preparing graduates to be future global leaders. The Association of International Educators reports that almost 40% of companies missed international business opportunities because they lacked internationally competent employees. International education abroad programs and opportunities to serve and strengthen communities (service learning) help students by producing outcomes and benefits that are otherwise difficult to achieve. Yet only 1.6% of all U.S. college students participated in education abroad in 2016-2017. There are numerous student benefits in education abroad programs that emphasize service learning. These include personal growth, ethical and moral development, professional development, career influence, increased cultural awareness, cross-cultural and international skill development, broadened worldview, appreciation for traditional skills/knowledge of the host country, increased awareness of community engagement through socially responsible approaches, and valuing international/multidisciplinary collaboration and work. This interactive presentation showcases an education abroad program that is providing students a life transforming experience. Students participate in service-learning projects to help the indigenous Maya people improve their quality of life. The program director, a graduate student, and undergraduate students describe how this program is impacting and changing lives of both students and the indigenous Maya people in Guatemala