St. John’s Global Initiatives Newsletter

As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of international education, we recognize both the challenges and opportunities that shape global learning experiences today. While federal policies may shift away from support for international engagement, the growing need for such engagement remains a reality, and St. John’s University’s commitment to fostering global connections remains steadfast. 

I recently traveled to Muscat, Oman, to participate in the ICEF Middle East Sponsorship and Partnership Summit, an opportunity to introduce the University to governments and institutions in the gulf as a potential destination for students from the region. 

When my trip came up in conversation before my departure, the most common question I was asked was about safety. Oman shares the same US Department of State safety rating as France, a destination for which I am rarely, if ever, asked the same question. This discrepancy underscores how unfamiliarity can shape perceptions of the world in ways that don’t always align with reality.

My time in Oman, when I met with government ministers from Gulf Cooperation Council countries and representatives from Omani higher education institutions, reinforced how vital it is to build bridges that foster greater understanding. International education not only provides students with life-changing experiences, but also challenges assumptions and broadens perspectives in ways that are more important now than ever. 

In this issue, we are excited to highlight the inspiring stories of Ashley Bautista and Kéavae Adams, whose global experiences have enriched their academic and personal growth. We also celebrate our Gilman Scholarship recipients. Their stories showcase the impact of study abroad and the importance of this federally-funded scholarship in providing these opportunities. 

The newsletter also features the incredible work happening through the Global Online Learning Exchange (GOLE), which continues to provide global learning possibilities beyond physical borders, and in doing so, to expand the number of students who can benefit from them. 

I am also happy for you to learn about the participation of international student Prabhleen Kaur in the Student Conference on US Affairs at the US Military Academy at West Point last October. Her engagement in this prestigious event underscores the importance of globally minded leadership and dialogue. 

In her On Being podcast, Krista Tippett poses the questions: What does it mean to be human? How do we want to live? Who will we be to each other? At its core, international education invites us to ask these same fundamental questions. The stories in this issue offer glimpses into how students, educators, and institutions are answering these questions through global engagement. We hope they inspire you to continue exploring, connecting, and shaping a more interconnected and compassionate world. 

Sincerely,

Christina Quartararo
Assistant Provost for Global Initiatives