Ramesh Neupane wants PNW students to study outside of Northwest Indiana.
Neupane, director of International Programs and Partnerships, is developing domestic and international Study Away programs to expose students to internships, research, and educational experiences that are not available on campus.
“Students have the opportunity to advance academically through various avenues, including faculty-led short-term programs, third-party providers, or exchange programs with our partner institutions,” said Neupane, “These pathways enable them to access specialized programs that may not be available at PNW.”
Following a pandemic-driven pause, PNW resumed international study programs after the spring semester, with faculty-directed trips to England, France, Spain, and Germany.
Neupane said he plans to work on broadening the list of destinations.
“In the 21st-century job market, virtually every employer seeks employees with a global mindset,” he said. “The study abroad experience equips students with this valuable quality.
“Students gain invaluable cultural exposure and a global perspective by immersing themselves in the cultures of different countries or states,” said Neupane. “This experience enhances their cultural competency and broadens their horizons.”
Each Study Away experience is unique and may involve classroom study, research, internships, externships or service learning. What is common is that the experience allows participating students to complete part of their degree program requirements through educational activities outside of Northwest Indiana.
Neupane has experience with such programs. Before taking the director spot here, he served as associate director of Study Abroad Programs at Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Center for International Education.
To make Study Away experiences more accessible for students, the university is working on ways to help them finance the trips.
“One of the most cost-effective options we recommend is faculty-led programs led by PNW faculty members during spring break and summer break,” said Neupane. “To help cover these costs, students can apply for scholarships available through the university or specific departments”.
Additionally, students with Pell Grants may qualify for the Benjamin A. Gilman Scholarship, provided by the U.S. State Department. Neupane said other scholarships are available.
The Gilman Scholarship is the nation’s biggest international funded scholarship, according to the university’s website. One of the scholarship’s goals is to develop a generation of American leaders who represent the rich diversity of the nation and have the international networks and skills to advance U.S. national security and economic prosperity.