Global Learning Alumni
Welcome to the Global Learning alumni homepage! Here you can access all the latest information on our alumni, the benefits of our programs, and how to stay connected with our other global learners.
Key Alumni Statistics
Students and graduates who participate in global learning activities report high levels of personal, academic, and professional growth. Here are some key facts and figures reported by our alumni, and others around the world, who have participated in global learning activities.
A 2023 Canadian Bureau for International Education survey found that Global Learning has impacted UCalgary Alumni in the following ways:
- ½ of our alumni were inspired to pursue an international career after participating in a global learning experience.
- 1/3 of our alumni have completed a program that developed their skills in another language.
- 8/10 alumni feel that they gained resiliency skills while studying abroad.
- 7/10 alumni feel that their global education has increased their leadership skills.
- 95% of our alumni feel that learning abroad helped them to develop personally and/or professionally.
- 86% of our alumni feel that their experiences abroad helped them to develop their knowledge of global issues.
- 90% of our alumni feel that their international program helped them to develop their confidence.
Upon return from their global learning experience, so many of our students cannot wait to tell us… and all their friends and family about how study abroad changed their life! We hear so many great stories about how they gained resilience, grew to be more independent, accepted more responsibility, learned to problem solve and made so many friends from all over the world!
Research shows that students who participate in an international learning experience gain access to a wider variety of social experiences which grows their social capital and ability to move between different social and cultural groups (Gelan, 2017). There are a wide variety of recent studies that show distinct personal growth areas for alumni of study abroad programming.
The Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), has found that Canadian students who participated in an education abroad opportunity had greater growth in the following areas than they would have if they had only studies in Canada: “knowledge of host countr[ies], cultural awareness and understanding, openness to difference, knowledge of world events, self-confidence, and awareness of own identity” (CBIE, 2016).
The International Education of Students Organization also found that participating in an international experience has been show to lead to a 96% increase in self-confidence among participants surveyed (International Education of Students, 1999 as cited in Study International, 2023).
According to IES Abroad (2015), 90% of students who participate in a global learning experience get into their first or second choice graduate or professional school. Our programs have helped our alumni to deepen their understanding of their subject of study, given them valuable field skills, enriched their viewpoints, and challenged them to grow in their academic perspective. It has been reported that participating in a global learning experienced has also helped students to decide on a thesis topic, raise their grades, and increase their knowledge of any languages they have been studying.
Other advantages to studying abroad include:
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Discovery or deepening of their academic passion and direction (CBIE, 2016).
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A higher GPA – especially nearing the completion of their program. (Rubin & Sutton, 2004).
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A greater likelihood of graduating on time (UC San Diego, 2011).
Alumni, from around the world, who have completed study abroad programs experience a variety of advantages throughout their career. From landing your first interview to leadership and advancement, global education will help your career grow in the following ways:
- nearly 90% of study abroad alumni found their first job within six months of graduation, as compared to only 49% of respondents in a recent survey of the general college graduate population who had found work within a year of finishing school (IES, 2012).
- 85% noted that participating in study abroad helped them to work in a broader range of sectors than they had prior thought that they would work in (AIFS, 2018);
- 84% felt that studying abroad helped them build valuable job skills such as foreign language skills, cultural training, tolerance for ambiguity, adaptability, communication, and more” (IES, 2012; AIFS, 2018).
- More than 65% of students surveyed found a career-related position within a timeframe that met or exceeded their expectations” (IES, 2012).
- 50% felt the overseas experience helped them get their first jobs (IES, 2012).
Having a globalized education also comes with a variety of professional advantages across a variety of industries. "Across companies, the industries most seeking international experience are:
- Energy (71%),
- Travel, Leisure and Hospitality (64%),
- Electronics and High Technology (64%),
- Consulting and Professional Services (63%),
- Fast Moving Commercial Goods FMCG (63%)." (QS Global Employer Survey, 2011)
Further, "More than 31 million unique job postings in 2019 included a mention of the key soft [essential] and global skills associated with study abroad." (NAFSA, 2020).
Leah Schmidt
2023 Arch Award Recipient
Bachelor of Arts (Honours), International Relations and Women's Studies – 2017
Master of Philosophy, University of Cambridge, 2018; PhD Candidate, University of Cambridge
Study Abroad Program(s): The Washington Centre Internship Program in Washington, DC, 2015; Killam Fellowship at American University in Washington, DC, 2016; Food and Culture in Spain Group Study Program, 2017
Senior Policy Analyst, Government of Canada, Immigration and Refugees Canada
I work in international relations because my travel experiences with UCalgary Study Abroad really inspired my passion. I currently work in international affairs for the Canadian Government, and I would not have found my current career (which I love!) without my international study abroad experiences at the University of Calgary. Studying abroad is where I discovered my personal and professional passion for international work and cultural exchange. Without the opportunity to explore international study with the support of the University community behind me, I'm not sure I would have ever had the chance to travel as widely and educationally as I was able to through Study Abroad programs.
I found that, academically, travel is a valuable forum for reinstilling joy in the learning experience, and reconnecting theory to practice. This was especially valuable to me at the end of my degree, when I was considering whether I had the energy and academic drive to go to graduate school, and international travel was a real spark of inspiration for me to continue my education.
As a result of my experiences, I am a lot more flexible and adaptable. Part of travel is embracing that not everything will go according to plan, but that's also the joy of traveling - embracing the spontaneity. I believe I am less rigid as a person because of my travel experiences.
Funding Received: Killam Fellowship, Fulbright Canada; The Government of Alberta Grant for the Washington Centre; International Study Travel Grant
Andrea Heckbert
Bachelor of Commerce - Finance, 2012 & Bachelor of Arts - Psychology, 2012; Master in Business Administration - Harvard Business School, 2017
Study Abroad Programs: Universita Bocconi in Milan, Italy, 2010; Group Study Program at Universidad Pablo de Olavide in Seville, Spain, 2012
Senior Director of Business Development and Alternate Channels in Europe, the Middle East, & Africa at Lululemon Athletica
I apply the cultural and international business context absorbed during my exchanges on an almost daily basis - as my company considers expansion and growth across Europe, it has been invaluable to understand European business and the cultural nuances of some of the main countries, both the ones I studied in but also other countries as a result of other students I met. I was able to grow in so many ways as a result of my programs. Personally, I became more self-sufficient, and a more knowledgeable global citizen. I also met some amazing friends I still have to this day. Academically, I enhanced my business and psychology education by enriching some of the concepts I was learning with international relevance, and some supplementary non-North American points of view. Professionally these programs gave me valuable international experience which has helped lay the foundation for the global career I always wanted.
"You will grow as a person and become a better citizen of the world, as well as learn about your own resourcefulness and adaptability... I have never met anyone who regretted their time on exchange."
Karen Ngo
Bachelor of Commerce (Co-op), General Management, 2020
Study Abroad Program(s): Experiencing Japanese Business Group Study Program, 2017; Singapore Management University, 2019
Communications Manager at Microsoft
Going abroad helped me to develop highly thematic skills that are important in today’s globalized economy. Going abroad also means gaining independence and dealing with a lot of unfamiliarity on your own so you're going to need to adapt constantly. These skills certainly helped me to earn and advance in my current role.
To learn more about Karen's experiences, check out her blog: KKarenism
Josiah Sinanan
Bachelor of Arts - International Relations, 2017
Study Abroad Program: University Exchange at Sciences Po - Paris, 2015
Reporter and Producer at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation - News
My time abroad is a key moment in my personal and professional development. While in France, I feel I truly solidified my confidence for utilizing French as a second language (something I’d be studying most of my life, even within my degree), but it also opened my eyes to the world of international diplomacy and politics in a way that was truly standout. The courses available to me were specific to being on location and I could not have replicated them otherwise. It’s given me a direct advantage in my career and how I understand the world around me. My perspective on the world shifted during my time abroad and quenched many curiosities and dreams I had early on in my education.
Today, I have been able to assist colleagues at Radio-Canada in French language content, I have a lengthened reach into French culture and I have a broader understanding of international politics in a way that helps inform my storytelling and reporting that I believe does make me standout within my current context. I have also developed a boldness and leadership that I didn’t have prior to my experience abroad which has given me confidence in self-travel, strengthened my ability to work in a team and an enhanced sense of social skills that travelling and being placed in a foreign environment allowed me to develop.
"Dive into your studies and observe and contemplate the many ways there are to learn and apply knowledge. Put yourself out there and get to know yourself while you’re abroad. Chances are you’ll face some things you maybe thought you were running away from, but it’s a great time to get to the bottom of them and apply change in your life."
Carol Fenton
Bachelor of Health Sciences - Health and Society, 2009; Master of Science - Population and Public Health, 2017; Doctor of Medicine, FRCPC - Public Health and Preventive Medicine, 2013 - 2018
Study Abroad Program: O'Brien Bachelor of Health Science Summer Research Studentships in Tanzania, 2006, 2007, 2008
Medical Health Officer, British Columbia Interior Health Authority
The issues that I studied in Tanzania (impacts of colonialism, poverty, food security) are global in nature and apply to much of my work here in Canada as well. On my program, I learned a lot of skills and built an amazing social network, I honed my interests and passions, and I discovered mentors that supported me.
"Seize every opportunity that excites you! They will lead to others."
Daria Emami
Bachelor of Commerce - Finance, 2019
Study Abroad Programs: National Student Exchange Program to University of New York, 2016
Merchandise Planner at the RealReal
The courses I took on exchange were not offered at UCalgary. I wanted to work in the fashion industry so through exchange I was able to take courses that are related to my work today in the luxury fashion industry. I utilize the concepts of merchandising and retail math often. I’m positive that I would not be where I am today had I not gone on exchange. Whilst on study abroad I was hired as an intern for a fashion company based in NYC. I was able to use this experience to successfully be hired for a full time role in NYC following graduation.
"I made friends of a lifetime and they are still my best friends to this day. I would not have moved to NYC had I not had this exchange semester before. The connections I made ensured a smooth transition for moving here full time."
Scott Vu
Bachelor of Arts (Co-op) - International Relations, 2017
Study Abroad Program: Full-Year Student Exchange at the University of the West Indies (St. Augustine) in Trinidad & Tobago, 2016-2017
Foreign Service Officer - Second Secretary at the Embassy of Canada in Mexico City, Mexico
One of the asset qualifications when applying to become a Foreign Service Officer is experience studying or working abroad. Undoubtedly, my time as a full-year exchange student in Trinidad & Tobago directly helped me prepare for a life in the Canadian Foreign Service by giving me the opportunity to live a relatively prolonged period in an unfamiliar country, build meaningful cross-cultural relationships, and develop important aptitudes such as adaptability and flexibility. I have just moved from my posting at the High Commission of Canada in India, and have previously worked at the High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom. Representing Canada in different countries abroad has required me to apply my education in International Relations everyday -- both inside and outside of the office. From supporting and informing the implementation of Canada's goals and interests abroad via official work, to engaging in spontaneous conversation with a curious local on geopolitical happenings in the region over a cup of chai on the roadside.
"Studying abroad is an investment in oneself. Spend a full year abroad if you are able to! Consider countries that do not immediately come to mind, or that are less popular. You may be surprised!"
Emily Tetrault
Bachelor of Social Work, 2020
Study Abroad Programs: University Exchange to Umeå University, 2017; Social Issues and Justice in Mexico Group Study Program, 2019; Global Community Challenge, 2020
Candidate: JD/BCL and Master of Social Work program at McGill University, 2026
Personally, academically, and professionally, my global learning experiences have helped me realize how much I can learn from every person around me. It has helped me truly understand that there are always so make solutions and many strategies to address one issue. I should never feel that I know enough there is to know about any one thing because there is always more to learn from the people around me (academically, professionally, with my friends and family, and with strangers). I also think I really developed the soft skills of compassion, empathy, and active listening, which I bring with me to everything I do.
"Do what you need to do to make it happen and you will be so grateful you did. It sounds daunting at first but the University of Calgary, and my host university, were so organized and told me exactly what to expect every step of the way."
Kendra Wegscheidler
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) – Philosophy, 2017; Master of Science at the University of Edinburgh, 2018; PhD Candidate at University of York
Study Abroad Program: Student Exchange at Durham University, 2015-2016
Postgraduate Researcher and Faculty at University of York
In my academic career, I have learned how to navigate different academic systems, learned how to succeed in whichever one I'm in, and teach others about this knowledge. This experience also helped me to get into a highly competitive Masters programme and to get a funded PhD position. Professionally, I got a teaching scholarship at the start of my PhD. My diverse background has been particularly useful here. I am able to tailor my seminars to both international and domestic students, assuring that everyone's learning needs are met, even if they're not familiar with the UK system.
"I am a totally different person. I am independent in a way I never thought I would be and am able to get myself out of tough situations, like cancelled trains."
Marina McNeil
Bachelor of Arts - English, 2009; Master of Arts in Liberal Studies at Simon Fraser University, 2022
Study Abroad Program: University of Aberdeen, 2008
Associate Director of Admissions at Adler University
I use the skills I gained during my study abroad program every day, whether it is the confidence I built adjusting to a new culture, or the lived experience I pass on to the international students I work with in my career. The time I spent in Scotland is essential to my way of seeing and being in the world. Before I studied abroad I was scared of being vulnerable, quiet and wouldn't take risks out of fear of rejection. Throwing myself into another country, learning a new education system, meeting new people who lived so differently from me yet finding a common human experience shook me out of my worldview. Returning home, I was able to live the way I felt inside without the anxiety and repression of my past. I immediately went to volunteer at the International Office to share my story and encourage others to transform in the way I had. After graduating I was struggling to figure out what I was going to do for the rest of my life but I knew that being involved in encouraging education and dream seeking would be important to me. I have spent the last 13 years working in post secondary education helping students figure out who they are and what they want to be.
"Embrace the chaos! Say yes to things that you would never do in the comfort of your everyday life. Know that you are entering a new identity and that will involve a lot of fear and shedding of your old self."
View more alumni profiles
Of course we have so many amazing alumni that we could not fit them all onto one page! You can read more about our incredible alumni who have received significant scholarships, grants, and bursaries to participate in these programs. Check out more alumni profiles by clicking on the link below.
Learn More
Here at Global Learning, we believe in making your journey with us lifelong. Below are a few ways for you to expand your experience and grow with us.