This is the time of year when Creighton students often consider travel abroad programs in the summer or for the following academic year. Lizzy Curran, Advisor for the Office of International Programs at Creighton believes that students “cannot afford not to engage themselves in a global experience at some point during their college careers.”

            Lizzy goes on to explain, “Through Creighton University, students have an incredible opportunity to spend a year, semester, summer, or even a week abroad. More than ever, employers are looking to hire those with international perspectives, empathy for diversity, and the confidence that comes from immersing oneself in a study abroad experience.”

            According to Pam Hopkins, Executive Assistant, Office of the Provost, the University Task Force on International Programs has been formed and will be co-chaired by Tricia Brundo Sharrar, Associate Provost for Academic Administration and Dr. J. Christopher Bradberry, Dean for School of Pharmacy and Health Professions. Pam explained, “The task force is charged with reviewing all international programs and activities at Creighton University in order to propose recommendations that will enhance international efforts in a more effective and efficient manner”.

            Emily Hanigan, Creighton graduate and current instructor in the Department of Exercise Science shared her thoughts on the benefits that she experienced when she traveled with the Backpack Journalism project in 2010 to the Dominican Republic, “It took me out of my comfort zone and expanded my knowledge of both journalism and theology” Emily said.  

            Although it has been almost four years since Emily’s travel abroad experience, she still has fond memories, “I often think back on that trip and smile, for the courage it took to start something new, the lasting friendships I made along the way, and the knowledge I took away (both from school and life lessons) by teachers who care”.