An International Study Opportunity for Low- and Moderate-Income Students

Abstract

The International Scholars Program (ISP) at Philadelphia University, a collaborative effort between a college success program and an honors program, was designed to introduce low and moderate income students to international study. Faculty and staff nominated students based on academics and leadership potential to participate in this program which included a semester of pre-departure preparation, ten-day travel to nonEuropean countries, and post-travel related activities. Staff conducted focus groups to evaluate students’ ISP experience. Themes about civic responsibility, environmental conservation, and nationalism emerged. In addition, students reported that this was a life change opportunity that had a significant impact in their self-confidence and ability to learn interdependence.