During my anatomy course this past spring, my professor sent out an announcement that he would be leading an International Medicine Virtual Study Abroad Experience in the Dominican Republic (DR). I was curious because I have always wanted to study abroad, but hesitant that the virtual format would be awkward and boring.

International students and scholars recently had an opportunity to learn about campus involvement from current and former leadership team members of the International Student Advisory Board (ISAB). Sponsored by International Student Support & Engagement (ISSE) and International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS), the event was held on Friday, August 27, and featured four panel members—each with significant leadership experience in campus student organizations. Shuhui Lin, International Student Support and Engagement Coordinator, moderated the panel.

Patrick Schwartzhoff, University of Iowa medical student, recently returned from a summer study abroad experience in Natal, Brazil, where he studied infectious disease issues. Schwartzhoff feels study abroad helped him become “a more cognizant and involved global citizen,” and that the critical thinking skills developed in Brazil will improve his clinical work in the future.

Dean Ganim welcomes our newest group of international students to UI this fall.