News and Events

Applications Now Accepted for the New USAC Program in Florianópolis, Brazil

USAC is thrilled to announce that applications are now being accepted for the new USAC Specialty Program in Florianópolis, Brazil. Florianópolis (“Floripa”) is an attractive and lively city with a vibrant and unique cultural history in the State of Santa Catarina in southeastern Brazil, a safe and well-developed area of the country set against a backdrop of stunning natural beauty. You can learn more about the city here.

In addition to Brazilian Culture and Intensive Language Studies, courses will also focus on Global Economy and Natural Resource Management, topics of high relevance in Brazil. Our host university, Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina, is one of the top five universities in all of South America.

Applications are now being accepted for the inaugural semester in Florianópolis for Spring 2013. The application deadline is November 1. Full program details and the application can be found here.

Added 5/4/2012

Finance Officer (USAC)

The University of Nevada, Reno, University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC), is seeking candidates for a full-time administrative faculty (professional) position located in Reno, NV. 

The Finance Officer provides leadership, management, and direction of the financial and budget functions for the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC). The position’s responsibilities include directing USAC’s financial planning and accounting practice for foreign offices as well as the Central Office in Reno; developing and implementing the financial management strategy, taking into account all external business environments that might influence USAC’s finance such as foreign exchange rate fluctuation; and supervising accounting operations and personnel. The position provides leadership and oversight for the overall human resource functions and personnel management for USAC. The position reports to the Director of USAC.

Qualifications for the position are Bachelor’s Degree and five years professional experience in the areas following or Master’s Degree and three years of professional experience in accounting, budgeting, auditing, or business administration with progressively responsible supervisory experience.

Interested candidates must submit a resume, cover letter and contact information for three professional references on-line at https://www.unrsearch.com/postings/10684.  Applications must be received by May 14, 2012 to receive full consideration.  EEO/AA, women and under-represented groups are encouraged to apply.

Added 4/26/2012

$2,000 Scholarship for Summer Students in Japan – Application Deadline Extended!

USAC is thrilled to announce a $2,000 scholarship for each student studying in Osaka/Kobe, Japan this summer (many thanks to KGU and the Japanese Government)! Each student attending will automatically receive the scholarship.

We’ve extended the application deadline to April 6; for more information, visit here.

Added 3/28/2012

Deadlines Extended for Summer England Programs

Join the Olympic-sized excitement this summer in England! It's not too late to enjoy all that the USAC London and USAC Brighton programs have to offer this summer, as well as the extra festivities, cultural events, and other celebrations that are coming to England along with the summer Olympic games.

Application deadlines have been extended -- there's still time to join in this historic time this summer. The London application deadline is now May 15; the Brighton application deadline is now May 1

In London, choose courses in art, literature, theatre, economics, as well as electives:

• Art in London (ART, 400/600-level, 3 credits)
• British Film and Literature (ENGL/ART, 400-level, 3 credits)
• Comparative Economic Systems (ECON, 300-level, 3 credits)
• History of London through Architecture: From Past to Present (HIST/ART, 400/600-level, 3 credits)
• In Search of British Roots: Tracing your Family Genealogy (ANTH/HIST, 100-level, 1 credit)
• Literary London, 1910-1940 (ENGL, 400/600-level, 3 credits)
• The London Olympics 2012: Contemporary Significance and Cultural History (HIST, 200-level, 1 credit)
• Theatre in London (ENGL/THTR, 400/600-level, 3 credits)

In Brighton, choose courses in literature, sociology, and politics, as well as electives:

• British Literature: Nineteenth-Century Novel (ENGL, 400/600-level, 3 credits)
• Continuity and Change in British Culture (ENGL, 400/600-level, 3 credits)
• Education Workshop: Social Class and Schooling (EDU/ SOC, 400/600-level, 3 credits)
• Royal Mania: British Royalty in History and Popular Culture (HIST, 200-level, 1 credit)
• The Politics of the European Union (PSC, 400-level, 3 credits)

Find more information here:

Brighton

London

Added 3/19/2012

USAC Announces Field Study Course in Cuba

Students in USAC’s three Costa Rica programs now have the opportunity to participate in an exciting and educational 6-day/5-night/1-credit field study course in Cuba.

Cuba was a key factor in the colonial Americas—its history exemplifying the impact of slavery and imperialism. Physically close but politically isolated from the United States, Cuba was also pivotal in twentieth-century events impacting the US, from the Spanish-American War to the Cuban Missile Crisis. As a result, Cuba has maintained a cultural and mythic presence in the history of the US and surrounding region. The Cuba Field Study course will give students the opportunity to experience the layers of history and culture in Cuba firsthand—the past, present, and future realities of Cuban society and its fusion of Spanish, African, and American flavors to create a rich culture all its own.

After an on-site orientation and lectures at Universidad Nacional in Costa Rica, you’ll travel to Cuba with USAC staff and stay in Old Havana, one of the best-preserved colonial Spanish complexes in the Americas. Walking tours, museum visits, and guest lectures coupled with cultural activities and meals will provide you the opportunity to interact with Cubans and learn firsthand their perspective of our common histories. This Field Study will focus on various aspects of Cuban culture and society; including possible visits to the Fine Arts Museum, Malecón, Casa de Africa, José Marti Institute, and Guanabacoa Museum, activities and interactions with local students, and, of course, experiencing the cuisine, music, and dancing for which Cuba is famous. The course will explore the impact of its African roots on Cuban culture and religions as well as the present-day political and economic factors Cuba faces in its future. You’ll also visit a tobacco plantation, cigar factory, and a beach resort to experience the full range of Cuba’s agricultural history and present tourism economies, as well as discovering Cuba’s natural beauty.

The Cuba Field Study offers an unmatched opportunity to visit this enchanting island and culture. It also provides a rich layer of understanding to your time living and studying in Costa Rica and Latin America by examining the contrasts and similarities between two former Spanish colonies and their histories since independence.

The Cuba Field Study will be offered during the Summer, Fall, Spring, with a total maximum group size of twenty students from the three Costa Rica programs. This segment of the program is optional and has an additional fee that covers the 1-credit Field Study, a pre-departure orientation in Costa Rica, round-trip airfare between Costa Rica and Cuba, Cuban visa, mandatory health insurance, ground transportation, lodging, entrance fees to scheduled visits, and most meals. Students will enroll in the 1-credit field study course on their Course and Tour Selection form, available on their Student Gateway account. Note: USAC’s license application to the US State Department to conduct an educational program in Cuba is pending. While we do not expect any issues in securing the license, full reimbursement would be given students in the event that the application is delayed.

The application deadlines for the summer session in Costa Rica are coming up! More information can be found here:

• Heredia
• Puntarenas
• San Ramón

Added 2/29/2012

Apply for Summer 2012 by April 1 to Win $300 Toward your Airfare!

Complete the USAC application process for Summer 2012 by April 1 and you will be automatically entered to win $300 toward your airfare. Our longtime air partner, Travel CUTS, has donated three prizes of $300 in “travel bucks” to be applied toward airfare to attend a USAC summer program. Complete the USAC application process by the deadline and you will be automatically enrolled in the raffle. Winners will be notified via email no later than April 9. Travel must be booked through Travel CUTS to receive the $300 in travel bucks. Travel bucks will be credited to your ticket with Travel CUTS; if you win and have already booked and paid for your airfare with Travel CUTS, they will refund the award amount. (If your name is also selected for the Eurail Global Pass, you will be contacted regarding your choice as you will not be eligible to receive both.)

Added 1/31/2012

Travel Cuts Raffles Off Eurail Global Pass!

Complete the USAC application process for Summer 2012 by April 1 and you will be automatically entered to get a 15 day Eurail Global Flexi Pass.  Our longtime air partner, Travel CUTS and their exclusive rail partner, Rail Europe, have donated this pass which permits you to explore 22 European countries. Complete the USAC application process by the deadline and you will be automatically enrolled in the raffle. Winners will be notified via email no later than April 9. (If your name is also selected for the $300 “travel bucks”, you will be contacted regarding your choice as you will not be eligible to receive both.)

Added 1/31/2012

USAC is visiting your campus this spring!

USAC is coming to your campus soon—keep an eye out for details or visit your study abroad/international programs office for more details.

January 23	Central Washington University
January 24	Northern Arizona University
January 24	University of Southern Maine
January 24	Washington State University
January 25	Point Loma Nazarene University
January 25	Southern New Hampshire University
January 25	University of Idaho
January 25	University of Louisville
January 26	University of Kentucky
January 26	University of Maine, Orono
January 26	Western Washington University
January 26	University of South Carolina
January 31	Saginaw Valley State University
January 31	Seattle Pacific University
January 31	University of North Florida
January 31	University of Texas, San Antonio
February 1	Seattle University
February 1	University of Florida
February 1-2	University of New Mexico
February 2	University of New Hampshire
February 2	University of Houston
February 6	University of Colorado, Boulder
February 7	Fort Lewis College
February 7	Goucher College
February 8	Boise State University
February 8	Clemson University
February 8	Colorado State University, Pueblo
February 8	St Edward's University
February 8	University of North Dakota
February 8	University of Maryland
February 9	Texas State University, San Marcos
February 9	Towson University
February 9	University of Colorado, Denver
February 9-10	University of Minnesota, Duluth
February 10	Colorado State University, Ft Collins
February 13	California State University, Monterey Bay
February 13	Sonoma State University
February 13	University of Toledo
February 14	University of San Francisco
February 14	Western Texas A&M University
February 14	Mount Union University
February 15	Grove City College
February 15	New Mexico State University
February 15	PACE University
February 15	St Mary's College of California
February 15-16	Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
February 16	Ohio University
February 16	Northern Illinois University
February 16	California State University, Stanislaus
February 17	Ashland University
February 17	University of the Pacific
February 22	Adelphi University
April 10	Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
April 11	Eastern Washington University

Added 1/24/2012

All Students Fine After Earthquake in Chile

There was a 5.1 magnitude earthquake in central Chile Monday evening. The epicenter was approximately 72 miles northwest of the city of Santiago. The Resident Director of the Santiago program has confirmed that all of the USAC students are accounted for and doing great. The tremor produced no immediate forms of damage or interruption to services throughout the city. The USAC students are not letting it get in their way of exploring their new home! The students attended their first day of classes and were exploring the city and even working on their bargaining skills in Spanish at some of the local shopping areas to get a few school supplies. They are looking forward to the rest of the spring semester.

Added 1/10/2012

USAC Viterbo Students Witness History in Italian Parliament

A group of 33 USAC Viterbo students, some part of the Government and Politics class, visited the House of Parliament on November 18, which included a tour of the historical rooms (it has been the house of the Italian Parliament since 1871 when Rome became the capital of unified Italy) and an exhibit on the history of the Italian vote.

The group then was able to view the inside of the Parliament.They were lucky enough to enter the balcony reserved to the public during the speech of Prime Minister Mario Monti to the Parliament to gain the vote of confidence.Being a topic on everyday news and in newspapers around the world -- as well as a current topic in some of the USAC classes -- students knew that being in that room on the day of and during the speech was a real historical moment in the political history of Italy!

Although most were not able to understand some of what Monti was saying (except for a few advanced students), they were able to ask questions during and afterwards regarding the topics covered in Monti’s speech.

Added 11/22/2011

USAC Madrid Field Study makes the News

Madrid students who participated in the Basque Country Field Study, an exciting four-day, 1-credit trip to explore a distinctive region of Spain, this semester had a truly enriching and satisfying time. They visited the fascinating cities of San Sebastián and Bilbao, and had the good fortune of dining at a gastronomical society and seeing a demonstration of cesta punta, better known in the US and Latin America as “jai alai.” Not only were they able to see famous players from the Basque Country compete before their very eyes, but they had the opportunity to try their hand at playing the difficult sport. To top it off, they were filmed by a local TV station and appeared in the news!

You can see both the footage and the article (in Spanish) by clicking here.

Added 11/17/2011

USAC Galway Students "Trace Their Roots" to Discover Relatives... in Ireland and Amongst One Another

USAC students in Galway, Ireland made connections that they never thought possible this summer thanks to their one-credit Tracing Your Irish Roots genealogy course.

“[The class] puts you in touch with the past in a way which is often highly emotional,” wrote Dr. Angus Mitchell, the professor who has been teaching the course since its inception in the summer of 2010. “It will draw you into the past along a unique path and will probably nurture a lifelong interest in your family ancestry and Irish roots.”

For Sierra Haight, a USAC student from Washington State University, Mitchell’s words could not have been more providential. While in Galway during Summer 2011, Haight was able to discover the elusive Irish ancestor she’d been hoping to trace when he ended up being the relative of another member of the class.

“It’s a totally random thing that you would never expect to happen,” said Haight. “From a one-credit class, to find out I’m related to one person out of 45, is amazing.”

On the first day of class as students were introducing their ancestors, Haight and Leanne Howard from the University of Nevada, Reno, discovered they were both tracing people named Kilgore.

“It’s funny because we joked about how we could be related,” said Haight. By the end of the term, Haight and Howard both realized they were looking for the same person when Howard found information on Thomas Kilgore, born in Ulster around 1714. Haight was looking for a T. Kilgore from Ulster who immigrated to America with his children. The names, dates, and places of his family members matched up for both students.

“I thought it was really cool because I didn’t know what to expect,” said Haight. “I wasn’t even convinced I would find anything.”

In fact, the class has been an impetus for unlikely discoveries since its beginnings. In the summer of 2010, USAC student Zachary Cuttitta of William Paterson University started out with very little information and ended up meeting with some actual Irish relatives.

“All I had was a woman’s first name, …two pictures, a county, and a town that wasn’t where my family lived,” said Cuttitta.

Yet he ended up on a journey to Tobercurry, County Sligo, where he asked around and ended up meeting some relatives.

“I loved meeting my family and I found them very interesting,” he said. In addition to this success, Cuttitta found more than just long-lost family members: the class offered him and others a chance to reach out and explore Ireland through the eyes of the Irish.

“The most important part of it all is going to the towns where you are from and speaking with the people,” said Cuttitta. “My favorite part was getting to know the Brennans, a brother and sister who are both over 90 that run a pub.”

It hardly gets more authentically Irish than that.

Added 11/1/2011

USAC Alumni Profile: Sarah Sense

One in a series of alumni profiles in honor of USAC's 30th Anniversary.

Sarah Sense is an artist and curator from California. Her visual art practice is weaving photographs with traditional Chitimacha basket patterns from her ancestry. Her current independent research is of contemporary Indigenous arts of the Americas. Sense received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from California State University, Chico and a Master of Fine Arts from Parsons The New School for Design. Her work has been exhibited widely in the United States and is in collections across North America. Sense recently traveled and researched throughout North, Central, and South America to complete her current project, Weaving the Americas, for which she wove photographs of her journey from Canada to Chile. The project features interviews with over sixty artists who practice a variety of different art forms. To learn more about the project, visit www.weavingtheamericas.tumblr.com, which shares the story through photographs, short narratives, and completed works from a traveling solo exhibition beginning at the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo Valdivia, Chile, then Santiago for a book release and exhibition at Galeria de Arte Trece. To accompany the weavings, there is a video installation of selected interviews and a catalogue including journey photos, journal narratives, woven works, and artist interviews. 

Sarah took time out from a very busy travel and exhibition schedule to answer a few questions for USAC.

USAC: You studied abroad with USAC three times. I imagine those experiences are touchstones for you. As you look back, how did who you are as a person and your work or identity as an artist transform over those three points in your life?

The first time that I studied abroad I was twenty-one years old. I was interested in going to Florence, Italy, but a friend of mine was going to San Sebastian, Spain. When she asked me to come, I didn’t think about my answer, I just went to the office and signed up for the program. I was very fortunate that my favorite professor was the visiting faculty for the same program. It was a wonderful experience filled with art, culture, and friends. Spain is a fantastic place to live. I am really lucky to have had that experience.I believe that these experiences encouraged me to move away from Northern California. Two years later I moved to New York City for graduate school.

My career as an artist and curator led me through a crazy journey of working in New York, Los Angeles, and Santa Fe. After Santa Fe I was considering going back to school for a PhD. The programs had language requirements that I couldn’t meet, so I thought that living abroad would be the most efficient way to learn a new language. I was considering a semester long program, but was hesitant about committing myself to a program that I had participated in ten years prior.

I signed up for the summer program in Puntarenas, Costa Rica and unexpectedly made great friends with the class. Even though I was an older student, my classmates were totally inclusive. Costa Rica was a perfect summer school location and Puntarenas offers a unique cultural experience of Costa Rica.

After the success of my time in Costa Rica, I signed up for a semester in Santiago, Chile. I am actually here now. I made great friends in the program and in the city. Ironically, one of my friends from the Costa Rica program will be doing the fall program in Santiago.

USAC: A related question, when you first studied abroad, could you have imagined what you are doing now?

After studying in San Sebastian, I knew that I wanted two things: to travel around the world and to live in a big city.

I suppose that we can’t really envision what our life will be, but what we would like it to be. At twenty-one I had several ambitions, and I am very happy with what I have accomplished in my life at this time, especially to have traveled and lived in many different countries.

USAC: Tell us a bit about your work and your current project.

During these past few months, I traveled through the Americas to meet Indigenous artists. During six months, I traveled to twelve different countries in the American continents and conducted video interviews with over sixty artists. I began in Canada and the US, then flew to Guatemala City and traveled by bus all the way down to Santiago (we had to fly over the Panama-Colombia border). It was a fantastic experience to meet artists in their communities. It was different from seeing work in a gallery or museum. These spaces are important too and I have a lot of respect for the time and effort that is given to an exhibition, but it was refreshing to sit down with these artists and talk with them about their work in their space.

I am presenting the project at the Museo de Arte Contemporaneo Valdivia, Universidad Austral. The exhibition will be of my art, which will include images from the journey as a woven installation on the walls of the museum. I am currently editing a book of the artist interviews and images of the journey. The video interviews will also be on view at the museum.

USAC: What advice would you have for a student currently considering studying abroad for the first time?

I would say that if you want to study abroad, then do it. There is so much that can be gained by learning about other cultures and to experience the complexities of varying societies. It is difficult to find the time and money for travel, this is a great time to do it.

Visit Sarah's website or www.weavingtheamericas.tumblr.com to learn more about the project and her work.

Added 10/31/2011

Mayor of Viterbo Honors USAC

The staff and students of the USAC Viterbo, Italy program were received by the Mayor of the Town of Viterbo for an official welcome and recognition.

The mayor, Giulio Marini, and the city council member for the promotion and marketing of the "town and territory," Giovanni Bartoletti, welcomed the USAC students and expressed how happy and proud the town of Viterbo is to have such wonderful international students reside in Viterbo for their study abroad career and how much they (and USAC) contributes to the economic and cultural development of the community.

The mayor presented the group with an award of recognition in honor of USAC's 30th Anniversary in recognition and in honor of the work USAC has done in the Viterbo community. In an article in the city's newspaper, the dignitaries noted, "These programs not only positively affect the University, but the whole city."

On behalf of all the USAC Member Universities, some of our students donated a university banner from their home school!

Added 10/20/2011

New Zealand Scholarships Now Available

Massey University, USAC’s longtime partner in hosting students in New Zealand, is offering two $400 scholarships to help USAC students make their dreams of studying in New Zealand come true in 2012. Applicants to any of USAC’s three campus locations in New Zealand—Palmerston North, Auckland, or Wellington—are eligible. To be considered, complete your USAC application and access your USAC Student Gateway account for scholarship application instructions.

Program application deadlines:October 15, 2011 (2012: Semester 1: Feb - Jun) and April 15, 2012 (2012: Semester 2: Jul - Nov)

Scholarship application deadlines: November 1, 2011 for February 2012 and May 1, 2012 for July 2012

Added 9/12/2011

USAC Director Honored as USAC Signs Thailand Agreement, Kicks off 30th Anniversary

Dignitaries from Chiang Mai University, University of Nevada, Reno, and USAC gathered on Friday, June 10, to officially sign the agreement for Chiang Mai University to host the newest USAC specialty program in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Carmelo Urza, director of USAC, remarked, "It's a beautiful place and a beautiful university and the city itself is going to provide USAC students the opportunity to really take in the authenticity of Thai culture, to see the complexity of the Hill Tribe people and all the neighboring countries like Laos and Vietnam. It's going to be an extraordinarily rich place for students to learn about Southeast Asia."

President Marc Johnson of University of Nevada, Reno -- the host for USAC's headquarters since the Consortium's founding -- as well as UNR Provost Heather Hardy, were also on hand for the ceremony. President Johnson took advantage of the occasion to recognize Carmelo Urza's 30 years as director of USAC, stating "Today we are celebrating two things: a new relationship with Chiang Mai University and the 30th anniversary of Carmelo Urza leading this program." He presented Carmelo with a certificate from UNR, noting that the value of USAC for the University of Nevada, and for all of the universities with which the organization works, is that it provides "critical mass" to make international partnerships and programs thrive. "Having worked to try to establish exchanges from one university to another, I know how really, really difficult that is."

"Isn't it nice," President Johnson asked, "to have developed a legacy?"

Urza thanked the University of Nevada for hosting USAC on campus as "a great host and a great partner" and acknowledged the more than 300 USAC employees worldwide who "really make the program happen." But he summed it up best by remarking, "The first 30 years was a lot of fun, but we're really looking forward to the next 30 years; and what more fitting way to launch the next 30 years than to sign a new agreement with a new partner in Thailand? We're very, very excited to be working with Chiang Mai University."

Learn more about this program here.

Added 6/10/2011

USAC Alicante Not Affected by Earthquake in Southern Spain

We can report that USAC Alicante students have been unaffected by today's earthquake in southern Spain. There was a 5.3 earthquake followed by a smaller 4.4 earthquake in the city of Lorca, which is over 120km southwest of Alicante. We’ve spoken with the Alicante Resident Director and he said that they did not feel anything in Alicante. He also said that none of the Alicante students were currently traveling in that area as they are in the final days of classes and studying hard for their upcoming finals.

Our condolences to the community in Lorca.

Added 5/11/2011

New! Summer 2011 Internships in Shanghai

We are pleased to announce several new summer internship opportunities in Shanghai, China. To participate, you must be enrolled in both Summer Session I & II. These internships are for credit: up to 3 credits.

BlueScope Steel International (BSL)

BlueScope Steel is a global leading supplier of premium metallic coated and painted steel building products, and one of the world’s largest manufacturers of pre-engineered steel buildings, wall- and floor-cladding solutions. BlueScope Steel has been operating in China for over 20 years, building a reputation for unsurpassed quality in premium steel building products and pre-engineered steel buildings.

The position will be in the BlueScope Steel China Information Services Department (IS). Native English proficiency is required. Responsibilities will include: Log and document the IS team's communications such as meeting minutes, proposal polish, working instructions, etc., proofread BSL Internet & Intranet English, proofread and polish BSL China IS communications, and any other day to day responsibilities.

Fish Industrial Design & Architecture (FIDA) Experience & Architecture International Company

FIDA Experience & Architecture International Co. is a New York-based architecture firm with offices in both Shanghai and Beijing. The intern will be working in the Shanghai office in areas the areas of Architecture Design, Landscaping Design, Interior Design, or Graphic Design. English and minimal Chinese are required. Required computer skills include Microsoft Office applications, AutoCAD, Photoshop, Illustrator and Flash (required for Graphic Design candidates).

USAC Shanghai Program Office

The position of program assistant is avaiable for a summer intern. English and Advanced Chinese proficiency is required.

For more information, see the program details for USAC Shanghai.

Added 4/22/2011

USAC Alum Advises Students to Pack "Half-Full"

"For me, having a 'half-full' mindset has been a defining part of studying abroad. It’s the idea that we’re never complete, always changing and growing, and always remaining humble to the fact that we don’t have all the answers or know exactly what is coming next. It’s the ideal mindset of the study abroad students that I like spending time with, and the ideal of how the process and experience can change your life." USAC Alicante alum Steve Hanna explains why and how to pack your bag--and, most importantly, yourself--half-full.

Added 4/21/2011

Enjoy Rick Steves' Tour of the Basque Country

USAC got its start there; want to know what all the buzz is about? Check out Rick Steves' tour of the Basque Country.

Added 4/16/2011

New Summer Scholarship for Brighton, England

A new scholarship is available to students participating in the inaugural summer session with USAC Brighton, England this summer. Available to all students accepted to the USAC Brighton Summer program, awards in the amount of $500 will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. No application is necessary; students will be automatically awarded upon acceptance to the program. More details are posted to students' USAC Gateway accounts; questions can be directed to scholarships@usac.unr.edu.

Added 4/6/2011

Japan Earthquake Update

April 15 Update

The US State Department Travel Warning has been downgraded to a Travel Alert.

*****

March 17 Update

A US State Department Travel Warning was issued overnight advising US citizens to not go within 50 miles of the Sendai/Fukushima area where the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant is located. The Japanese government restrictions are a little less stringent. We trust the US and Japanese governments to provide good scientific information and guidelines to which we are adhering. Student safety is our top priority and we will notify you should circumstances change.

The universities where USAC students attend are a significant distance from the directly affected areas -- from between 450 and 716 miles from Sendai. Our partner universities in Nagasaki, Osaka/Kobe and Hiroshima assure us that their universities and cities have not been affected by the recent events. Consequently, they are proceeding on schedule with their spring semester and USAC students are welcomed to attend. Students traveling through Narita Airport may experience delays in their flights as a result of rolling power outages.

While there are many sensational images of the affected areas and many rumors and “what if” scenarios, it is important to keep in mind that the reactors and the places where the tsunami hit does not reflect the reality of the program sites in southern Japan. We remain in contact with our partners in Japan; we monitor the State Department and Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) releases and watch multiple news agencies. We ask students to: 1. Not travel north of Tokyo at this time. 2. Register with the US Consulate/State Department-—always a wise thing to do when living abroad, but especially important under these circumstances. 3. Stay in regular contact with family and friends. 4. Use standard caution and safety measures in the event of aftershocks. 5. Keep emergency contact information with you at all times, especially the contact information for your local host university representatives (listed in the Arrival Update).

*****

All USAC students in Japan have checked in and are safe after the earthquake and tsunami. The programs are currently on break between terms and so many of the Spring students have not yet arrived in Japan.

Most of the damage due to the earthquake and tsunami is in central and northern Japan, hundreds of kilometers away from the USAC program locations in Osaka/Kobe, Nagasaki, and Hiroshima. These areas are in the southwestern part of the country and have been relatively unaffected -- the universities are functioning normally and will open as scheduled for the Spring term. As a result, the USAC programs in Japan are scheduled to continue as planned.

The Tokyo area is experiencing electrical power limitations and transportation interruptions which may cause irregular flight schedules. If traveling through this area, students should be prepared for delays.

We continue to monitor the situation closely, including updates from our colleagues on location, and will take the appropriate steps should circumstances change. If there is any change to the Spring semester calendar or schedule, we will immediately update enrolled students and the website.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of Japan.

Check back for updates or contact Jillian Murdock, USAC Program Administrator for Japan with questions.

Added 3/15/2011

New Thailand Program Announced

A new USAC Specialty program is now available in beautiful Chiang Mai, Thailand. Starting in Summer 2011, the USAC Thailand program will be hosted by Chiang Mai University, and will focus on interesting courses in Buddhism, business, politics, economy, Thai language, culture and cuisine and an exciting Field Study/Tour to visit the Hill Tribe peoples. Courses will be taught by knowledgeable professors from Chiang Mai University. One- or two-day field trips have been organized to visit important historic, cultural, commercial, and resort sites in and around Chiang Mai. The Field Study/Tour offers the opportunity to explore the Karen hill tribe villages on the way to Intanont Mountain, the highest mountain in Thailand, and the surrounding areas of nature preserves, tea and coffee plantations, and forests. The trip will include a lovely stop to swim, and the option to take an elephant ride or go bamboo rafting.

Learn more about this very exciting and positive opportunity here.

Added 3/14/2011

USAC Gilman Scholars Top $211,000 in Scholarships This Year

USAC Spring 2011 students received another $110,000 in Gilman scholarships, bringing the total Gilman funding received for 2010-11 to $211,500. The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program seeks to diversify the kinds of students who study abroad and the locations they study in by supporting undergraduates who might otherwise not participate due to financial constraints. Congratulations to the following Spring recipients!

USAC Chile

• Elizabeth Phillips, University of Nevada, Reno

USAC China

• Jai Thao, CSU Stanislaus
• Efren Gomez, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
• Micah Perry, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
• Jonathan Carral, University of Nevada, Reno
• Gregory Melon, University of South Carolina
• Timothy Rogentine, University of Wisconsin, Superior

USAC Costa Rica

• Ayodele Oti, CUNY, Cit yCollege
• Margarita Nieskes, Michigan Tech University
• Samira Martinez, Towson University
• Harmony Hauser, University of Iowa
• Naseera Bland, University of Maryland, College Park
• Jason Man, University of Nevada, Reno
• Daniel Louis, University of Texas, Arlington
• Sean Fuentes, University of Tulsa

USAC France

• Michelle Kennison, CSU Monterey Bay

USAC India

• Anthony Jiang, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo
• Emery Brown, SUNY, Purchase

USAC Germany

• Justin Martinson, Indiana University, Bloomington

USAC Ghana

• Mundia Chinonge, Johnson County Community College
• Abenaa Acheampong, University of Maryland, College Park
• Ama Vodi, University of Maryland, College Park

USAC Italy

• Miguel Pena, University of Maryland, College Park
• Michael Jennette, University of Massachusetts, Amherst

USAC Korea

• Cheng Chih Wang, University of Houston

USAC Norway

• Benjamin Larson, Clemson University

USAC Spain

• Gabriela Velazquez, CSU Dominguez Hills
• Tanna Jellison, University of Maine, Orono

Added 12/15/2010

Congratulations to the winner of the Eurail Global Pass!

Thank you to our longtime air partner, Travel Cuts, for donating a Eurail Global Pass. Congratulations to Chantalle (University of Nevada, Las Vegas) who will be headed to Pau, France.

Added 10/18/2010

USAC Awards Curriculum Integration Grants to U.S. Universities

Reno, NV – The University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) has awarded curriculum integration grants to several U.S. universities to implement integration of study abroad coursework into campus curriculum. One-time matching grants of up to $8,000 have been awarded to six USAC Member universities: University of Nevada, Reno; University of Nevada, Las Vegas; University of Iowa; University of Maryland; Clemson University; and Ohio Northern University.

According to recent research, study abroad is positively related to retention and graduation rates. Integration of study abroad coursework into undergraduate curricula is a project many U.S. institutions are initiating in order to reduce the obstacles students perceive when considering studying overseas. Curriculum integration assures students that their classes overseas will apply toward their degrees and it is an excellent tool to help universities further internationalize their degree programs.

USAC expects that these grants will create ways in which study abroad opportunities can be more visible on campuses as well as provide opportunities for collaboration between academic departments, registrars’ offices and study abroad departments. The grant monies are intended to be used as matching funds for administrative costs to integrate USAC courses into campus curriculum, which can include hiring temporary staff to initiate and oversee the projects, printing materials, web/database design and related items.

USAC is a consortium of thirty-three U.S. member universities and currently offers study abroad programs in twenty-five countries at forty program sites.

Added 7/27/2009

Congratulations USAC scholars!

USAC would like to congratulate the following students who have received Federal Gilman Scholarships to study abroad with USAC during the 2009-2010 school year:

Boise State University
Daniel Camacho, USAC Chengdu, China
Mason Shaw, USAC Heredia, Costa Rica

California State University, Chico
Gregory Shafer, USAC Prague, Czech Republic
Elissa Peterson, Växjö, Sweden

Fort Lewis College
Jilyssa Marquez, USAC Reading, England

University of Idaho
Thomas Sayward, USAC Chengdu, China
Cassandra Garcia, USAC Bilbao/Getxo, Spain
Nick Bryant, USAC Puntarenas, Costa Rica

University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Shawn Denney, USAC Osaka, Japan
Nichole Francis, USAC Accra, Ghana
BeeLee Young, USAC Chengdu, China

Added 6/9/2009

USAC Viterbo student writes article for Italian magazine

USAC Viterbo student Derek Mauldin (CSU Stanislaus) recently wrote an article for a local magazine about his trip to Castel Gandolfo in Italy. To read the article, please click here.

Added 5/18/2009

Café Abroad article on USAC San Sebastián cuisine course

The Spring 2009 print edition of Café Abroad recently published an article about USAC San Sebastián’s Basque Cuisine course. This course is a fantastic way for USAC students to learn about Basque cooking and tradition inside one of the city's famous gastronomical societies. To read the article, please click here.

           

Added 5/18/2009

New Engineering Courses Available at USAC Lüneburg Program

USAC is pleased to announce new Engineering Courses for fall and yearlong USAC Lüneburg students.  These courses will be available starting in fall 2009.

Engineering

Fall and Yearlong only, taught in English or German  

Fall and yearlong students may also take Engineering courses in English and German. Courses taught in English are appropriate for all students with previous knowledge in Engineering. Most courses taught in German are appropriate for students on Track IV level with previous knowledge in Engineering. Five undergraduate courses (400-level courses) will be taught each fall – four of them taught in English and German, one of them taught entirely in English. Four additional undergraduate courses will be offered, with the option of taking them for graduate credit (400/600-level courses). One of these courses will be taught in English and German, three of them will be taught entirely in English. These courses are taught by Leuphana University Lüneburg faculty.

Undergraduate courses (Fall Semester only)

• Production Engineering (ENGR, 3 credits, 400-level, taught in German and English)
• Applied Project Management (ENGR, 3 credits, 400-level, taught in German and English)
• Motion Systems (ENGR, 2 credits, 400-level, taught in English)
• Materials Management (ENGR, 3 credits, 400-level, taught in German and English)
• Intelligent Systems (ENGR, 3 credits, 400-level, taught in German and English)

Undergraduate / Graduate courses (Fall Semester only)

• Factory Integration (ENGR, 3 credits, 400/600-level, taught in English)
• Strategic Manufacturing Networks (ENGR, 3 credits, 400/600-level, taught in English)
• Automation Systems (ENGR, 3 credits, 400/600-level, taught in English)
• Sensors and Intelligent Systems (ENGR, 3 credits, 400/600-level, taught in German and English)

Read more about our Lüneburg program | Apply now

Added 4/17/2009

More than tutoring

A University of Idaho student reflects on her eye-opening tutoring experience in Malta.  To read her story, please click here.

Added 2/6/2009

USAC featured on the UNR website

An article on all the benefits from studying abroad in slow economic times was featured on the UNR website. Read the whole article here.

Added 1/22/2009

U.S. Magistrate Judge Partners with USAC to Promote Cultural Exchange

Few doubt the benefits of study abroad these days. Foreign language fluency, enhanced career prospects and personal growth are just some of the perks students gain from these experiences. The University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) at the University of Nevada, Reno, has been offering these academic opportunities to students for over 25 years and has recently had the opportunity to extend the scope of these cultural exchanges with the aid of U.S. Magistrate Judge Valerie P. Cooke.

Both of Ms. Cooke’s daughters are USAC alumni. Two years ago Ms. Cooke’s daughter Brinn studied on the USAC program in San Sebastián, Spain and Ms. Cooke took advantage of this opportunity to share her legal expertise at the University of the Basque Country, where the USAC program is located. In the fall of 2007, she gave a presentation on the American Federal Judicial System at the university's Law School. The presentation was well attended by local students and faculty and at the conclusion of the event she extended an invitation for a Spanish law student to complete an externship at her chambers in Reno. University of the Basque Country law student Lucilla Talamazzi applied and was the fortunate recipient of this externship.

From February to May 2008, Lucilla worked alongside Ms. Cooke at the District Court in Reno, learning about the Common Law system in the United States (something that doesn’t exist in Spain). USAC helped facilitate the move by arranging temporary accommodation and housing for Lucilla. “Working (or better said, learning) next to Judge Cooke everyday is probably the best experience that has happened to me so far,” said Lucilla. “It enriched my professional background and also gave me the opportunity to get to know a bit about Nevada, its culture, its people and its community. Through USAC and the District Court, I met a lot of people and formed great relationships.”

Ms. Cooke’s daughter Mary also studied abroad with USAC last semester in Santiago, Chile. Last month Ms. Cooke gave a presentation at the Faculty of Legal Sciences at the Universidad Andrés Bello in Santiago, where the USAC Chile program is located. Together with the Faculty of Legal Sciences and the Santiago Chamber of Commerce, she discussed alternative methods applicable in conflict resolution. She demonstrated that the North American justice system strongly favors non-adversarial solutions, such as mediation, in legal challenges. The event was a rare opportunity for Chilean judges, lawyers and law students to share and discuss variations in civil process with an American legal expert. Ms. Cooke has again extended an invitation for a Chilean law student to complete an externship in her chambers.

USAC and the University of Nevada, Reno occasionally sponsor cultural exchanges that extend beyond the scope of their traditional study abroad programs. Every summer a select group of Basque scholars from the University of the Basque Country come to study and conduct research at the University of Nevada, Reno and experience American culture. Last summer several Costa Ricans also came to Reno for several weeks to take English courses at the University of Nevada, Reno. USAC arranges these exchanges and coordinates everything from housing to social events. Though USAC primarily offers traditional study abroad programs for U.S. students, the organization is proud to facilitate these additional opportunities when possible. The partnership with Judge Cooke has been a valuable addition to USAC’s mission.

Added 1/8/2009

USAC Makes Top Story on Nevada News.

The University of Nevada, Reno's University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) has included the University of Maryland since 2007. Students from both campuses study abroad together on many USAC programs, where they share classes, adventures, and forge common bonds. Last semester alone, twenty-four students from the University of Maryland studied abroad on USAC programs.

Read full story on University of Nevada's website

Added 12/30/2008

Spotlight on University of Nevada, Reno students in San Sebastián, Fall 2008

Seventeen University of Nevada, Reno students are studying on the USAC San Sebastián, Spain program this semester. As with all USAC programs, the experience is not only a great opportunity for them to study overseas, but also to truly immerse themselves in the culture, language, activities and events of their host country. The USAC Resident Director in San Sebastián recently shared some examples of their experiences abroad.

All seventeen students regularly meet with their conversation partners - an important first step into the local culture. Most of the students have at least two conversation partners each – a few have three or more. They meet with their conversation partners as often as they want and spend half of the time practicing English and the other half speaking either Spanish or Basque. This activity is an effective way for them to build friendships with local students.

Several Nevada students are also taking integrated classes with local Spanish students. Eric Bischoff, Michelle Bowman, Marc Bristol, Tom Crowther, Hollis Laird, Robin Reaney and Silvia Villanueva are enjoying an integrated class on popular culture: From Elvis to Rap: 50 Years of History as Seen through Rock Music (1955-2005). They are having a blast studying the music, documentaries, slogans, advertising, newspapers and television clips. Kimberly Evans, Charlie Hagen, Katelin Jones and Hollis Laird are taking an integrated Basque Dance class together with seventeen local students from the University of the Basque Country. Basque dance is characterized by differences in style and function, allowing for group participation and lots of fun. Cody Griffin is enjoying an integrated class on Comparative Social Movements and Silvia Villanueva is taking an integrated class on Politics and Science Fiction.

Many of the students also have part-time jobs. This is another great way for them to make contact with locals and integrate themselves in daily life. Kimberly Evans and Robin Reaney have done student teaching at a local academy. Together with other USAC students they worked intensively during the first month of their stay teaching English to pupils in a local language academy. Michelle Bowman is also tutoring a 6 year old twice a week.

Nevada students also make the most of their time abroad by participating in local clubs and activities. Tom Crowther and Kimberly Evans have joined the Basque Hiking Club,a particularly good way to meet local people. There are many levels of hikes, from easy to very challenging treks. The students can also participate in all of the many events, excursions, courses and trips organized by the local hiking club. Tom Crowther, Kimberly Evans and William Walker have also joined a local surfing school and are learning to surf with locals.

And, of course, traveling is a significant part of the experience abroad. Many students take advantage of the proximity of San Sebastián to other towns in Spain and France and have already visited other sites in the Basque Country. Many of them have even traveled to Barcelona, Paris and Italy. All of these experiences will likely provide lifelong memories for these students.

Following is a list of all seventeen University of Nevada, Reno students who studied in San Sebastián this semester:

Kevin Jensen, Health Ecology Major
Michelle Bowman, Health Ecology Major
Ryan Bresler, International Business Major
Marc Bristol, International Business Major
William Walker, Business Major
Eric Bischoff, International Affairs Major
Tom Crowther, Biology Major
Kimberly Evans, Elementary Education Major
Cody Griffin, Political Science Major
Charlie Hagen, Nursing Major
Katelin Jones, Geography Major
Robin Reaney, Nutritional Sciences Major
Sean Stapleton, Pre-law Major
Silvia Villanueva, Journalism Major
Erica Warwick, Spanish and Linguistics Major
Hollis Laird, Undecided
Amy Leggett, Undecided

Added 12/29/2008

USAC Madrid highlights

USAC Madrid students have been busy this past semester completing internships, tutoring local children, playing sports with Spanish students and participating in festivals, among other things. The USAC Madrid office recently sent us a presentation highlighting these events and illustrating the many cultural activities students have at their fingertips while on a USAC program. To view the Madrid presentation, please click here.

Added 12/15/2008

Employers are growing in appreciation of study abroad

Read story here.

Added 11/20/2008

University of Cincinnati USAC student in the news

Read the full story here.

Added 10/22/2008

USAC alums write about their study abroad experiences

Two USAC alums recently wrote articles for the Sagebrush: “Drop the ego, learn about a new culture” and “Take advantage of USAC office and change forever”.

Added 10/20/2008

USAC Chengdu student Steven Haines offers a personal account of the benefits of studying abroad

Read story on the UNR website.

Added 10/7/2008

USAC announces new Oslo program scholarship

USAC is pleased to announce a new scholarship for spring 2009, fall 2009 and spring 2010 USAC Oslo students.  This scholarship has been a new and wonderful contribution from the University of Oslo and we are extremely appreciative of their collaboration.  Eligibility requirements are acceptance into the USAC Oslo program and a minimum 3.0 GPA.  The deadline for spring 2009 applications is November 1st, 2008. The deadline for fall 2010 applications is July 1st, 2009.  For more information and the application form, please click here.

Added 9/30/2008

USAC Puebla announces new Hotel Management Internships

USAC is pleased to announce a new internship opportunity for Puebla semester/yearlong students. Beginning spring 2009, students may apply for internships at major hotels in Puebla. The city of Puebla is well known for its hospitality and has many major international hotel chains as well as smaller boutique hotels, often housed in properties with high artistic and historical value. A hotel internship offers an excellent opportunity for Hotel Management majors/minors to receive hands-on experience and gain a wider understanding of international hotel management practices. Interns would have the opportunity to rotate throughout various departments within the hotel and may meet degree requirements for their major/minor.

The work will be done in a Spanish-speaking environment so students must have taken at least four semesters of college Spanish in order to be eligible. Additional requirements are: minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and junior standing at time of internship. Interns may receive up to a maximum of 3 credits but no financial compensation. Hotel Management interns will work approximately 10-12 hours per week.

Students should notify the USAC Central Office about their wish to do an internship at least 60 days prior to arrival in Puebla. A refundable fee of $100 is charged, which is returned upon successful completion of the internship.

Added 9/29/2008

USAC student Jose Alcayaga unites more than 200 people from his Basque lineage

Jose Alcayaga, 29 years old, born in Connecticut and living in New York, is found these days in the Basque Country learning all about Basque, thanks to USAC (University Studies Abroad Consortium). During his stay in San Sebastián, the Basque American has met and gotten to know for the first time a variety of his “family” with the help of his cousin, Mari Sol Alcayaga, resident of the Basque country. She works in an actual “family tree” bookstore where she researched the last name “Alcayaga”, which originated in Hondarribia. This young man is the creator of an online group that reunited more than 200 people from all over the world with the same last name.

This Basque American has a Guatemalan father and a Filipino mother. He is loving learning the Basque language, along with the culture (past, present, and future). “For me learning Basque is not hard. Other languages (Spanish) were much harder to learn. I like the language. I learned German in the United States, and I like traveling and speaking different languages to people. For this project, Facebook has helped me find people with my same last name. In fact I have found people all over the world…in Chile, Argentina, The United States, The Philippines and The Basque Country.”

As far as Jose’s plans for the future, this Basque American says that he has the intention of visiting the Basque “area” of New York and trying to meet the Basques there. Also, he will continue to work on his website.

To read the original article in Spanish on Euskalkultura.com, click here.

Added 8/19/2008

Student and faculty stories, photos and thoughts about Félix Menchacatorre

I can’t believe it. What an incredible man. He will be missed by past USACers, as well as those that follow. His dedication to the program was so great. The 6 months that I spent in the Basque Country undoubtedly changed who I am, and because of that I am forever going to be grateful. I have to say that I do not have any particular stories involving Felix that really stand out to me, mainly because he did everything so well, that we never needed to go to him. However, his leadership and kind heart is absolutely what has made the program as great as it is. He will be missed.

Here is a picture of us overlooking Donostia. Eskerrik asko Felix !

-Casey Davidson
Arizona State University
Bilbao/Getxo Program, Fall 2006

 

Felix was such a kind director. I loved having him in charge of the Bilbao program when I studied there. He was always fun & lighthearted in the Basque Cuisine class & on all of the field trips. I think he will be missed by all of his past students. My regards to his family.

-Daysha Hampton
University of Idaho
Bilbao/Getxo Program, Spring 2004

 

It's very sad that we have lost such a great person. His caring and friendliness made students feel at home. He will be missed forever.

-Tola Ouk
University of Houston
Bilbao/Getxo Program, Summer 2008

 

Thank you for passing on this information.  I was in Bilbao a few years back and Félix's face was one that always put a smile on my face.  Please send my regards to his family.

Here is a picture for the archives..... best belly in Spain.

- Michelle Lloyd
California State University, Chico
Bilbao/Getxo Program, Yearlong 2003-04

 

Please send my condolences, if you're able, to the USAC Bilbao staff and Félix's family. Félix was a very good-natured and kind man with a wonderful sense of humor and I'm certain he will be missed by many. I wish his family nothing but the best during these difficult times and would like them to know how much we students appreciated Félix. Whenever there was a problem, he was someone I always felt very comfortable speaking with. 

Sincerely,

- Paul Lauber
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Bilbao/Getxo Program, Yearlong 2006-07

 

How devastating...he was a great person and will be truly missed.  He and his family will be in my prayers. 

- Kristy Halderman
University of Toledo
Bilbao/Getxo Program, Fall 2007

 

I went on an optional field trip/hike with Félix in 1999 while on a study abroad through USAC. I remember him distinctly even though I only spent that day with him.  The hike and the study abroad were a great experience.

- Justin Vance
Boise State University
San Sebastián Program, Summer 1999

 

I am so sorry to hear of his passing. He was a wonderfully kind man! Please send my regards to his family and friends.

- Mara Correa
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Bilbao/Getxo Program, Fall 2006

 

Although I am really sad to hear about Félix's passing I am still proud of all the things he has done.  He is still as alive as he has ever been, for me.  I think you're doing a wonderful thing in establishing the scholarship program, it means a lot.

- Mason Hults
Northern Arizona University
Bilbao/Getxo Program, Summer 2007

 

I am deeply saddened by the news of Félix's death. He was a very genial human being. I send my sincere condolences to his family and friends. Félix, thank you for all the work you have done and for your dedication to the Basque Country.

- José Antonio Alcayaga III
Pratt Institute
San Sebastián Program, Summer 2008

 

Along with hundreds of others, my daughter and I wish to express our deepest sorrow at the passing of Dr. Menchacatorre.  We had the good fortune of getting to know Félix during the summer of 2005 in San Sebastián. 
Throughout our stay, he was always available and ready to help.  His infectious smile and warmth enhanced every interaction with him, whether it was an orientation, a weekend trip, or a visit to the USAC office.  On one such occasion Félix even took time out to help us negotiate a Spanish website to make reservations for a weekend trip to England.

Dr.  Menchacatorre's legacy will live on in the success of the programs he helped develop and direct, but he will be sorely missed.

Dr. David L. Cox
Boise State University
FIDA participant, San Sebastián Summer 2005

Denali Cox
(currently a freshman at Rutgers University)

 

If you would like to share your memories of Felix, please send stories and/or photos to usac@unr.edu.

Added 8/8/2008

The loss of a great friend at USAC Bilbao

It is with great sadness that USAC announces the death of Félix Menchacatorre, Director of the USAC Spain programs. Félix was leading the last leg of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, an optional field trip available to students participating on the Spain and France summer programs, when he suffered an apparent heart attack on August 1st, 2008.

Félix, 59, was a native of Bilbao/Getxo and earned a law degree and an MBA from the University of Deusto and a Doctorate in Spanish Literature from the University of Cincinnati. He taught on and directed the Spain programs for 25 years, building programs in San Sebastián, Bilbao, Madrid and Alicante. 700 students participated on these programs this year alone. Additionally, he was instrumental in developing other programs and shaping what USAC is today.

Félix was doing what he loved at the time of his death and was surrounded by his friends, his fellow Resident Directors in Spain. He was a true humanist who genuinely cared for his students. Félix was loyal, capable, a man of integrity, trustworthy, and totally dedicated to his students, friends, family and USAC. He was a great friend to those who make up the USAC family, had a wonderful sense of humor and lived life to the fullest. He will be deeply missed but his life's work will live on and continue to have a positive impact on many more lives.

We have received many calls, emails, and other communications which demonstrate the wide range of influence that Félix had during his life. In response to inquiries about honoring Félix, USAC is establishing a memorial scholarship fund for Bilbao and San Sebastián students. This seems to be an ideal way to memorialize someone who cared deeply about his mission and passion for educating students. Also, we encourage you to share your stories, pictures and thoughts about Felix. You may send these to usac@unr.edu and we will post them here on the website.

If you are interested in donating funds for the Félix Menchacatorre Memorial Scholarship, you may send them to the address below. Please make the check out to “UNR Foundation”, write in the memo section “Félix Menchacatorre Scholarship” and include a short note indicating that it is for this specific scholarship.

University Studies Abroad Consortium
University of Nevada, Reno / MS 0323
Reno, NV 89557

Added 8/7/2008

USAC Puebla alum wins 2008 Boise State University President's Writing Award

A McNair Scholar, Vivianne Sanchez studied on the Puebla summer 2007 program, where she also conducted research for the article. Her winning piece was titled The Construction of Poblano Identity in Colonial Art and Architecture: Talavera Pottery and Cathedral Architecture in Puebla, Mexico, 16th-18th Centuries.

Added 6/23/2008

USAC Torino Professor publishes article on architecture

Caterina Franchini, USAC Torino Professor of Art History and Interior Design, recently published an article in Interpreting the Past: The Future of Heritage, a selection of papers from the Third Annual Ename International Colloquium. The book was introduced at the International Book Fair in Torino last month.

Added 6/23/2008

USAC Internships

Italy: Torino
Three students from CSU Chico completed Communications Internships in the Torino Fall 2007 program.  Rachael Melin, Rheba Lundy and Alexandra Ford helped local Italian students learn English by giving presentations and holding conversation practice with them. The local students loved seeing their photos from California and enjoyed learning about American Thanksgiving traditions.  Following is an excerpt from Rachael Melin’s journal entries about her internship experience:

“I really enjoy getting to hear their perspective and point of view on how we American students come off to them, or how they think things are in America. It once again brings my attention to the beauty of how diverse our world is and how fascinated I am with other cultures. I love hearing or witnessing the slight differences in the things we do that one would never really pay attention to unless they were here. Studying abroad involves so much and honestly is just one of life’s greatest lessons. I have really benefited from this experience and have learned so much. I look forward to next semester, which will only continue to help me improve my language skills as well as my practice of the subject of communication as a whole.”

Spain: Bilbao
In November, USAC Bilbao business students visited the Mondragon Cooperative Corporation (MCC). MCC is a business group made of 264 companies and entities organized in three areas: Financial, Industrial and Distribution, together with the Research and Training sectors. It began in 1956 as a humble factory that manufactured oil stoves and paraffin heaters and has become the leading industrial group in the Basque Country. It ranks 7th in Spain and is one of the world's largest worker cooperatives and an important example of workers' self-management. The organization places special emphasis on job creation, the promotion of its workers and a commitment to the development of its social environment. During their visit, USAC students watched a slide show about the Cooperative and attended a presentation about MCC’s organization, structure and current position in the market.  As part of this field trip, they also visited the FAGOR electrical appliances plant. (FAGOR is one of the branches of MCC.)

Spain: Madrid
Yoonna Cho, a USAC exchange student from Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea, completed an internship on the Madrid Fall 2007 program.  Yoonna worked with the Madrid office of Plan International, a non-government organization dedicated to helping children in developing countries.  She spent her time translating correspondence between sponsors in Spain and sponsor children in beneficiary countries.   She wrote, “The letters have taught me more than I could have possibly imagined. I know that ‘Candelaria’ is a girl’s name in the Canary Islands, I know that people from the Basque Country send their children to Euskara schools…  Most of all, I know now that a staggering amount of people are giving away their money to make this world a better place for nothing more in return than a bi-annual letter or a child’s drawing.”

Lillian Schaffer, a Graphics Communication major from the University of Houston, also completed an internship in Madrid last semester.  She worked as a workshop assistant with a local ceramicist, using her artistic skills to develop ceramic trays, bowls and plates.  She also enjoyed the opportunity to help out with a weekly children’s ceramic class.

Irene Landrau (pictured at left), a Spanish/Nursing student from the University of Colorado at Denver, had the opportunity to watch Spanish Senate proceedings in Madrid last November. She was pleasantly surprised by her experience: “Who knew that politics could be so exciting?  The discussions, the microphones, the heated debates, seeing the President of Spain… It was almost too much to handle!  By the end of the session I could point out which politicians were from the PP or the PSOE, who the President of the Senate was, and even who the Minister of Defense was.”

Added 2/14/2008

McNair Scholar Shares Study-Abroad Experience

Dobbs Ferry, NY - McNair scholar and Mercy College student Alexandra Quirke recently gave a presentation to several McNair scholars and Spanish majors about her experiences studying abroad with USAC in Alicante, Spain, this past summer. Quirke, who was awarded Mercy's $5,000 Mortimer Levitt Scholarship to offset her travel expenses, took an English graduate-level course in Spanish gender studies at the University of Alicante. As part of her presentation, Quirke shared several of the 1,600 pictures she took while in Alicante, discussed Spanish culture and history, and read an original poem she wrote in Spanish, entitled "La Meszcla No Cabe" (The Mix Doesn't Fit) about the challenges of communicating with local residents.

"There's only so much you can learn if you only study in the United States," said Quirke, a senior international business major. "You learn a lot more through immersion than you would ever learn through a book."

Added 2/8/2008

USAC Visiting Professor Makes Headlines

Dr. Peter Goin, Professor of Art at the University of Nevada, Reno, is making headlines abroad for his current photography exhibit, “Trazando la Línea” (“Tracing the Line”). Currently a Visiting Professor for the University Studies Abroad Consortium, Dr. Goin is teaching photography courses in Puebla, Mexico this semester at the Universidad Iberoamericana, and his exhibit is on display in the Galería Biblioteca at the university. The exhibit, which has made headlines in several Puebla newspapers, is open through February 23, 2008.

“Trazando la Línea” is the first photographic survey of the international border between the U.S. and Mexico, spanning from the Gulf of Mexico to the Pacific Ocean. The border measures 698 miles from El Paso, Texas to the Pacific Ocean and includes 276 monuments, 15 pairs of sister cities and a population of more than 12 million people. Xavier Recio Oviedo, coordinator of the exhibit space at Universidad Iberoamericana, describes it as a land defined by borders where “the line imposes a separation and creates a perimeter. It isolates and identifies, like a protector as well as a suppressor. The line creates tension, dividing a space that is as visual as it is cultural. Dr. Goin’s exhibit introduces new images of a land that was previously avoided, ignored and walled off with signs reading ‘Do Not Enter’. Each photo intends to represent something beyond what is tangible, reflecting not only the geography of the region but also its complexity in relation to the border.”

Dr. Goin will be teaching in Puebla with USAC through May 2008. Besides teaching both USAC and local students, he is working on several art projects within the community.

Added 2/6/2008

UNLV Institutes New Scholarship Endowment

UNLV has instituted a new scholarship endowment for UNLV German majors/minor studying in Lüneburg, Germany. The $500 Sigrid Sommer Scholarship award honors Mrs. Sigrid Sommer who retired in April 2006 after 20+ years as Honorary Consul General of Germany for Las Vegas.  The scholarship is a fitting way to honor the best and brightest UNLV undergraduates who choose to study German and will help defray costs for students studying on the USAC Lüneburg program.

Matthew Warner, a UNLV senior majoring in German studies, is the first recipient of the Sigrid Sommer Scholarship.  He will be studying in Lüneburg in Spring 2008 and has been quite involved in extracurricular German activities. In addition to his active participation in the UNLV German Club, he and his family have hosted 4 exchange students from Germany since 2002 who attend UNLV or local high schools. Additionally, he passed the demanding international Certificate of German for the Professions examination in May 2005, and will be receiving a Translation Certificate, German-English upon graduation in May 2008.

For more information about the scholarship and the first award recipient, please contact Dr. Daniel Villanueva, Department of Foreign Languages, (702) 895-3431 or daniel.villanueva@unlv.edu.

Program Information

Added 11/16/2007

Family Creates a Lasting Legacy

In Spring 2006, the Simcoe Family established a memorial scholarship to assist students who would like to study abroad in honor of their late son Richard John “R.J.” Simcoe. R.J. was a student of the USAC/University of Nevada , Reno studying in San Sebastian , Spain.

The Simcoe Family awards one $500 scholarship each semester and they have already helped four students achieve their dreams of studying abroad. R.J.'s parents and sister, who is also a USAC/Nevada Alum, along with other members of the committee read all the applications personally to help choose the right student. This competitive scholarship is available to any University of Nevada , Reno student who is a Nevada resident with a 3.0 or higher GPA who would like to study in Bilbao or San Sebastian, Spain.

The generosity of the Simcoe Family is greatly appreciated by USAC/Nevada and by those students who are lucky enough to be chosen to receive this scholarship. Past recipients have been Allison Walling, Kristen McKinnon and Laura Soukup. Congratulations to Veronica Munn, the Spring 2007 recipient who will be studying in San Sebastian.

Added 1/12/2007

Two recent grads land Fulbright teaching grants

Two University alumni, Kelly Strobel and Collin Ferrari, have been chosen to teach abroad as Fulbright scholars for 2006-2007. Strobel, a 2005 international affairs alumna, will teach English at an elementary school in Nice, France.

Read the full story here.

Added 7/25/2006