This article is part one in a two-part series highlighting Niagara College’s Summer Institute in Barcelona, Spain. Part two will highlight student experiences.
Students experienced an immersive, trailblazing opportunity to foster their global mindset through a culturally diverse learning environment as Niagara College launched its latest Summer Institute in Spain.
Offered through the Be World Ready program in partnership with NC’s academic partner in Spain, La Salle College, the inaugural cohort consisted of 13 students from eight of NC’s academic schools and one faculty member. The group embarked on their educational experience in Barcelona from May 15 to June 6, participating in daily learning, complemented by cultural activities that provided a full immersive and intercultural experience in Spanish culture.
“The newest addition to our BWR Summer Institutes in Barcelona, Spain provides students with a unique opportunity to travel with fellow students from various program areas across the college,” said NC Vice President, International, Sean Coote. “Each participant then brings their global learning back to the NC classroom to share with others. This multiplier effect is key to our Be World Ready program at NC and is a hallmark of a truly global educational experience.”
The program’s curriculum was carefully crafted to provide students with a well-rounded experience. Students completed the Be World Ready general elective course which launched in Fall 2023. This course aims to foster intercultural competencies, global leadership, and global employment skills. The classroom learning integrates cultural immersion, and practical experiences to provide participants with a comprehensive and enriching experience in one of Europe’s major cultural, economic, and biotech hubs.
“By participating in the Summer Institute, students will not only enhance their academic credentials but also broaden their global mindset and develop essential skills for success in an increasingly interconnected world,” shared Maxine Semple, Associate Director, Cultural & Global Engagement. “These efforts empower our students to become global citizens and leaders, fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.”
The transformative experiences provided by this customized three-week Summer Institute are partially funded by Global Skills Opportunity, the Government of Canada’s Outbound Student Mobility Pilot Program, and Be World Ready grants. This opportunity builds on a number of Be World Ready initiatives offered this past spring and through the summer, including International Field Studies to the Republic of Georgia and India. Additionally this summer, NC students are embarking on work abroad opportunities at Lertlah School in Bangkok, Thailand as well as a six-month academic exchange program offered by the University of Florida and Walt Disney World® Resort Academic Exchange, The University of Florida’s Eric Friedheim Tourism Institute and Walt Disney World® Resort.
“Summer Institutes also highlight NC’s dedication to fostering strategic partnerships and innovative programming with the potential of leading to partner delivery locations and global campuses,” said Orel Ruiz, Director, Global Campus Operations, Compliance & Reporting. “They reflect NC’s commitment to global education and its vision to offer enriching opportunities beyond its main campuses in Niagara.”
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’. Students can also use these learning opportunities to earn entries on their co-curricular record, giving them a competitive edge in their job search after graduation.
For more information on NC’s Be World Ready program, please visit beworldready.ca.
