Plymouth State University

PLYMOUTH, N.H.-
Whether you live in Shanghai or Holderness, the global economy has an increasing impact on business organizations and practices. As global business ventures expand, so does the need for employees who have the skills and aptitude to work anywhere in the world, and Plymouth State University is meeting this challenge.

PSU’s Internationalization Task Force was created to help enrich the academic and social experience of PSU students in the area of global learning. One of the Task Force’s first decisions was to form the Global Education Office (GEO) at Bagley House to support the growing number of students pursuing their studies abroad and PSU faculty who are teaching abroad. GEO Director Deb Regan said studying abroad provides students with a wealth of engaged learning possibilities and prepares students to become global citizens.

“Studies show that studying abroad and experiential learning have a positive impact on student success and retention. It also sets students apart when they prepare to enter the global work force.”

PSU has seen an enormous growth in students seeking overseas educational opportunities. Nearly 200 students will be taking at least one course in a foreign country next semester, expanding their educational opportunities and personal growth.

PSU President Sara Jayne Steen is a strong proponent of “internationalization,” because it provides a rich educational experience for both PSU students and international students who wish to study here.

Bagley House staff, L to R, Jessie DeBow, Ruth DeCotis, Debra Regan, Jessica Morel, Kirk McClelland, Peter Laufenberg. Missing from photo, Lisa Ladd

“We are preparing students to enter a global workforce and to solve problems that require cross-cultural cooperation,” said Steen. “PSU offers wonderful opportunities for international students, and their presence enriches the education of all students. Similarly, when US students travel abroad, they bring back knowledge that is important to New Hampshire.”

In recent years, PSU students have studied in Australia, New Zealand, France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Austria, Romania, Hungary, Japan, Spain, Egypt, Turkey, Croatia and South Africa. They have travelled with faculty to South America and India. PSU offers a program for first-year, first-semester students at the University of Limerick in Ireland.

Regan noted developing study abroad programs for all majors is a goal PSU is working toward.

“We’re seeking out appropriate matches, partner institutions, to help our students fulfill their PSU degree requirements in an enriching environment,” Regan said. “We’re also looking to grow faculty-led study abroad programs, which are two or three week programs that are more affordable for students wishing to experience international study.”

For more information about this release, contact Bruce Lyndes, PSU Media Relations Mgr., (603) 535-2775 or blyndes@plymouth.edu