This article is the second in a two-part series highlighting NC’s Summer Institute in Barcelona, Spain.
Niagara College students experienced unique academic, professional, and personal development opportunities from May 15 to June 6 during the newly launched Summer Institute in Barcelona, Spain.
Daily learning experiences and cultural activities were offered through the Be World Ready program, in partnership with NC’s academic partner in Spain, La Salle College, to a cohort of 13 students from eight of NC’s schools of study. The program’s curriculum was designed to provide a well-rounded experience, including the Be World Ready general elective course which launched in Fall 2023.
Reflecting on their experience, students highlighted some capabilities they have developed, such as adaptability, intercultural competencies, leadership, and global employment skills.
“This program allowed my peers and me to experience a new culture through an educational lens,” said Laura Roldan, a student in NC’s Protection, Security, and Investigation (Customs Border Services) program. “The memories from the trip and the in-class discussions will forever positively impact my social and personal life.”
One of Roldan’s most memorable moments was feeling confident about assisting a woman needing medical care due to the high temperatures in Barcelona.
“I speak fluent Spanish, and two other students are in health-related programs, so we all had the knowledge to help that woman,” said Roldan. “Being capable of acting in that moment proved how we were world ready. My time spent learning this summer showed me how crucial skills such as communication and adaptability are to our career development.”
Justin Terlouw, a student in the Photonics Engineering Technology program, highlighted adapting to changes as an important skill developed during the program.
“Although I was on a different continent and with a busy schedule, I still had to manage a few things back at home over the phone or on my laptop,” said Terlouw. “This skill will be very useful for my future career. Now I know that if a challenging situation arises and I have to change my plans, I will still be able to complete my agenda and finish my tasks.”
Ryan Pettit, a Recreation Therapy program student, also shared the skills he developed during the Summer Institute.
“The program taught me resilience and adaptability; both of these will greatly benefit me in the coming years,” said Pettit. “It pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me grow both personally and professionally, preparing me for future challenges in my career.”
This customized three-week Summer Institute, providing transformative experiences for students, is partially funded by Global Skills Opportunity, the Government of Canada’s Outbound Student Mobility Pilot Program, and Be World Ready grants.
Niagara College’s Be World Ready program
The Be World Ready (BWR) program at Niagara College is designed to prepare students for global success through education, exchange and international experience, including study/work abroad opportunities for all students. The program also offers professional and personal development opportunities for NC faculty and staff. Fostering culturally diverse learning environments, the BWR program enables students, staff and faculty to understand different perspectives and connect practical skills with a global mindset to help students launch their career.
By actively participating in ‘world-ready’ learning activities, participants have the chance to practice new skills and develop the global competencies that will distinguish them as ‘world-ready’ and ‘work-ready.’ These learning opportunities equip students with a competitive edge in their job search after graduation.
For more information on NC’s signature Be World Ready program, please visit beworldready.ca.
