global access ambassador

Maya Torrez at the Parthenon at Greece

Maya Torrez found inspiration in the landscape and myths of Greece

Friday, November 4, 2022
Maya Torrez, Diversity Ambassador, studied on the UI faculty-led Ancient Perspectives, Modern Eyes program.
Alex Hefel with scenic background holding Hawkeye flag

Alex Hefel's first trip out of the U.S. took him to South Africa, expanding his horizons

Friday, November 4, 2022
Alex Hefel received a Diversity Ambassador Scholarship to study abroad and conduct research in South Africa in spring 2022.
Julia Nightster

Pride in her Native American heritage grew for Julia Nightser after studying in Spain

Thursday, November 3, 2022
Julia Nightser, UI Diversity Ambassador, participated in the UI faculty-led Iowa Hispanic Institute Program in summer 2022.
Sauda Abdullahi in the Scottish Highlands

Sauda Abdullahi reflects on her UK public health program

Monday, October 31, 2022
Sauda Abdullahi, a fourth-year public health student, spent a semester in the UK to learn about public health practices including closing the food access gap.
Carmela and their favorite Italian Cat Nera (Viterbo, Italy)

Carmela Furio found a sense of peace through independent travel

Monday, October 31, 2022
Carmela Furio was awarded a Diversity Ambassador scholarship and traveled to Italy on the USAC Viterbo program.
Kevin Drahos in front of a fountain

Spanish views on the LGBTQ+ community welcome surprise to Kevin Drahos

Tuesday, October 25, 2022
Kevin Drahos reflects on his study abroad experience in Madrid, and how the LGBTQ+ community and related traditions are perceived and understood.
Dean Omar in Petra, Jordan

Dean Omar's Egyptian heritage made his experience in Jordan all the richer

Tuesday, October 25, 2022
Diversity Ambassador Dean Omar spent a summer in Jordan, conversing with locals, completing an internship, and feeling right at home.
Mariana Garces Grajales with friend in front of purple lights and fountain

Her Colombian roots helped Mariana Garcés Grajales settle into Italy

Tuesday, October 25, 2022
Mariana Garcés Grajales (BA communication studies, '22) participated in the USAC Reggio Emilia program in spring 2022 and shares what she learned.
Sushma Santhana

Sushma Santhana is still "unpacking" everything she brought back with her from Italy

Monday, October 24, 2022
Diversity Ambassador Sushma Santhana, a UI biomedical engineering student, participated in the CIMBA program in Italy during the summer of 2022.
TJ Grimes on top of the Lotte World Tower in Korea

Tj Grimes opened her mind as she opened those of others in Korea

Monday, October 24, 2022
Diversity Ambassador Tj Grimes discusses gender identity and what she learned from studying in Korea.