California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH) has unveiled a new initiative aimed at broadening opportunities for students to engage in global experiences. The “Dominguez Hills Passport” program is designed to encourage students to explore the world outside of their comfort zones, gain new perspectives, and develop valuable skills while studying abroad.
The program, which was officially launched at a special event on campus last week, offers students the chance to earn a special designation on their transcript by completing a series of requirements related to international education. These requirements include language study, cross-cultural experiences, and participation in a study abroad program.
“We believe that it is crucial for our students to be global citizens, to have an understanding and appreciation of different cultures and ways of life,” said Dr. Thomas Parham, President of CSUDH. “The Dominguez Hills Passport program will provide our students with the opportunity to gain valuable skills that will benefit them both personally and professionally.”
One of the key components of the program is the language study requirement, which encourages students to develop proficiency in a foreign language. This can be achieved by taking language courses on campus or by participating in a language immersion program abroad. By gaining fluency in a second language, students will not only enhance their communication skills but also gain a deeper understanding of another culture.
In addition to language study, the Dominguez Hills Passport program also requires students to participate in cross-cultural experiences. This can include attending cultural events on campus, volunteering with diverse communities, or engaging in discussions about global issues. By exposing themselves to different perspectives and ways of life, students will develop empathy and learn to navigate complex cultural interactions.
The cornerstone of the program is the study abroad requirement, which encourages students to spend a semester or year studying in another country. This immersive experience allows students to fully immerse themselves in a different culture, gain a broader perspective on global issues, and develop independence and resilience.
“Studying abroad is a transformational experience that can shape a student’s personal and professional development in profound ways,” said Dr. Susan Borrego, Vice President of Student Affairs at CSUDH. “Through the Dominguez Hills Passport program, we hope to make study abroad opportunities more accessible and incentivize students to take advantage of this life-changing experience.”
To support students in their study abroad endeavors, CSUDH has established partnerships with universities and programs around the world. These partnerships offer a wide range of academic programs, internships, and cultural experiences that cater to students’ diverse interests and career goals.
“We want to ensure that every student who desires to study abroad has the opportunity to do so,” said Dr. Maria Francesca, Director of International Programs at CSUDH. “With the Dominguez Hills Passport program, we aim to break down barriers to international education and empower students to pursue their dreams of global engagement.”
In addition to the academic and personal benefits of studying abroad, the Dominguez Hills Passport program also offers financial incentives for students. Through scholarships, grants, and fundraising efforts, CSUDH aims to make study abroad opportunities more affordable and accessible to all students, regardless of their financial circumstances.
“We understand that the cost of studying abroad can be a barrier for many students,” said Dr. James O’Brien, Director of Financial Aid at CSUDH. “That’s why we are committed to providing financial support to help students overcome this obstacle and make their international education dreams a reality.”
As the Dominguez Hills Passport program gains momentum on campus, students are eager to embark on their global adventures and broaden their horizons. For many students, studying abroad is not just an academic opportunity but a life-changing experience that will shape their future aspirations and outlook on the world.
“I have always dreamed of studying abroad and experiencing a different culture firsthand,” said Samantha Rodriguez, a senior at CSUDH. “The Dominguez Hills Passport program has given me the motivation and support I need to make that dream a reality. I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.”
With the launch of the Dominguez Hills Passport program, California State University, Dominguez Hills is paving the way for a new generation of globally-minded leaders who are prepared to tackle the challenges of an increasingly interconnected world. By providing students with the tools, resources, and support they need to engage in international education, CSUDH is empowering them to make a positive impact on society and shape a more inclusive and understanding global community.
