“Study abroad” is a term most would associate with universities; however, that is not always the case. There are a number of North Carolina Community Colleges that offer study abroad programs, and FTCC is soon going to join those ranks.
There are many benefits to study abroad for students. For some, studying abroad may provide the first opportunity for international travel and exposure to diverse cultures, which can foster personal and professional growth. Academically, studying abroad provides a unique opportunity to observe course objectives in different settings, thereby enriching one's understanding of those topics.
We are currently in the process of developing a faculty-led STEM study abroad program. In June 2023, FTCC was awarded a grant from the IDEAS Program of the U.S. Department of State that provided funds to scout three field research stations in two countries. In June of 2024, we traveled to the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences, where we participated in a workshop that explored hands-on activities and research opportunities available for students.
This involved snorkeling to identify coral and fish, microplastic sampling from a nearby beach, assisting with a plankton tow, and experiencing various cultural activities.
In July of 2024, we traveled to Belize with our first stop being the Belize Zoo Tropical Education Center in central Belize. Here, we were able to participate in birding and bird banding, have a behind-the-scenes, day-and-night tour of the Belize Zoo, visit the Runaway Creek Nature Reserve, and visit Xunantunich, a Mayan archeological site. The purpose of these trips was to get firsthand experience with each field station and make international connections to develop the study abroad program.
The first study abroad trip is planned for the summer of 2026 and will be associated with a section of Bio 112 General Biology II. For this first trip, students will be visiting both field stations in Belize and will get to participate in all the activities we trialed. Upon return, students will have the opportunity to present their findings in a campus-based symposium. In the summer of 2027, the goal will be for the class to visit Bermuda and then rotate between the two countries every year.
This program will offer a truly unique opportunity for students that may include a lot of firsts: visiting another country, flying, snorkeling, research, and much more. When students participate in studying abroad, they grow academically and personally and receive an experience with a lasting impression about their time at Fayetteville Technical Community College.
Are you ready to learn more about study abroad opportunities at FTCC?
Contact instructor Krissy Smith by email at smithkri@faytechcc.edu or by calling 910-678-8296.
Or reach out to instructor Kerri Donohue via email at donohuek@faytechcc.edu, or by calling 910-486-7393.