Every semester, the Faculty-Led Study Abroad (FLSA) program will share student spotlights, program information and everything you need to know about studying abroad.

Check out the most recent editions below.

Issue 1 – Fall 2025

Explore the World with Us – Your Study Abroad Starts Here!

Welcome (back), Hornets! Whether you’re settling into campus life or already counting down to your next break, now is the perfect time to start planning your next big adventure — and we’re here to help make it unforgettable.

This is the first issue of our Hornet Travels, your go-to source for all things global and academic. Each term, we’ll spotlight exciting international programs led by Sac State faculty — designed just for you. Imagine taking classes in Senegal, Italy, Japan, or Costa Rica… and yes, earning credit while exploring the world!
In this issue, we’re recapping the amazing programs from Summer 2025 (spoiler: they were epic!)

If you’ve ever dreamed of learning beyond the classroom, now’s your chance. So, grab your passport (or just your coffee for now), and let’s dive in! 

Where in the World Did We Go? 

This past summer, close to 70 students studied abroad through a faculty-led program. These students earned academic credit, built lasting friendships with peers from across campus, infused a global perspective into their academic experience, and enhanced their cultural competence. All of this, in two weeks or less! Not a bad way to spend part of your summer, right?

The first two programs to set sail left the hive at the end of May. For the fourth year in a row, Professor Irwin (COMS 168) has led a group of students to Carcassonne, France. This week-long advanced seminar in the history, theory, and practice of rhetorical criticism is always a student favorite! Meanwhile, Professors Lazaridis and Boyer (HIST 112 & ITAL 199) took a group of students to Italy to soak in the rich history and vibrant culture of Naples and Rome. Bellissimo!

In early June, Professors Dym and Potts led our largest program (ASIA 190 & INTD 199) to Japan, where students explored the country’s architectural and design influence firsthand. A major highlight? Attending the World Expo in Osaka! We can’t wait to see how students applied what they learned to develop design proposals for an international pavilion at the Osaka World’s Fair. Also in Japan, students in our very first international internship program (JAPN 199) traveled to Shinshu University to gain hands-on experience with global food production and distribution. Huge thanks to Professor Masuyama for making this opportunity possible!

By mid-June, Professor Dosch co-led a group of Sac State and San Bernardino students to dive into the vibrant art scene of Mexico City. Highlights of the Art 5 program? Visits to Kahlo’s Casa Azul, the ancient city of Teotihuacan, the floating gardens of Xochimilco, and several local artist studios.

Wrapping up our summer academic adventures abroad, Professors Nozicka-Ferris and Borg returned to Costa Rica and Guatemala with their PUBH 196A students. This program gives future and current public health professionals the chance to see global health through a more comprehensive and culturally aware lens.

So…What Exactly is a Faculty-Led Study Abroad Program?

That’s a great question — we’re glad you asked! Faculty-Led Study Abroad (FLSA) programs are short-term international adventures that let you earn academic credit while exploring the world. These programs are run by Sacramento State professors and offered through the College of Continuing Education (CCE), in partnership with International Programs and Global Engagement (IPGE) and your college.

They’re designed to fit into your busy life — whether you have a job, family responsibilities, you’re a student-athlete, or you’re new to traveling. You’ll take courses that count toward your degree while gaining real-world experience, cultural insight, and global perspective. Plus, these programs are a great option for first-time travelers, non-traditional students, and even alumni or community members looking for a professional edge (and a little adventure, too!). 

Here is a list of questions we frequently get asked to help you get started:

Q: Do I need to be enrolled in the course to join the program? Can I go without taking the Sac State course?

A: You do need to be enrolled in the course in order to travel with the group. All faculty-led study abroad programs are tied to Sac State classes, so enrollment in the course is required to participate. Think of it as a class with an exciting international twist—you’ll be learning both in and outside the classroom!

Q: Can I apply to multiple programs?

A: You sure can, as long as the dates of the program don’t overlap. If you wish to participate in more than one program, please contact Gabe Hernandez to discuss this option. 

Q: Can I apply if I am currently a freshman?

A: Absolutely! However, check with the faculty leader first. While most programs are open to all academic levels, some programs do require applicants to be in upper-division standing in order to apply.

Q: I don’t have a passport yet. Can I still apply?

A: Yes, you can still apply! But since you’ll need a valid passport to travel, it’s super important to start the process now if you don’t already have one—or if yours is expired or about to expire.

Good news, Sac State has a Passport Place right on campus! They take both appointments and walk-ins. To book an appointment, head to the “Book Appointment” section online. If you’re planning to walk in, just call ahead at 916-278-7940 to check availability. 

Q: Can my spouse/partner/children/parents travel with me?

A: We know traveling can be even more meaningful when shared with loved ones—but to keep the focus on academics and group safety, only those officially enrolled in the program can participate.

This means spouses, partners, children, parents, and friends cannot join you, travel with the group, or plan overlapping personal trips during the program. We appreciate your understanding—these guidelines help ensure a smooth and successful experience for everyone involved.

Q: What is the process for submitting my application?

A: It’s very easy! Contact Gabe Hernandez, and he will send you the link. 

Q: What if I am not a Sac State student?

A: No worries! You can still apply for our short-term study abroad programs. If you’re accepted, you’ll be enrolled as an Open University (OU) student at Sac State. Your program coordinator will help get you set up with a Sac State ID number. Once you have that, you’ll be able to activate your Sac State account, pay for the program, and complete your online pre-departure orientation. We’ll guide you through every step!

Q: Are there scholarship opportunities for students?

A: Yes! If you’re a current Sac State student, be sure to check out Sac State’s Scholarships website for scholarships specifically for study abroad. Most of these are only available to current students—unfortunately, alumni and community members aren’t eligible. If you’re joining a faculty-led program, you can also apply for national scholarships like the Hostelling International Explore the World Travel Scholarships, Benjamin A Gilman International Scholarship Program, Diversity Abroad Overseas Ambassador, and more.

For a full list of outside scholarship opportunities, feel free to reach out to Gabe Hernandez; he’s happy to help!

Q: Does Sac State offer other study abroad options? 

A: We got you covered!!! Sac State also offers semester and year-long programs at a variety of locations in more than 20 countries around the world. For a list of all our programs, check out the International Programs & Global Engagement (IPGE) website. 

Issue 2 – Fall 2025

Did We Slay It? You be the Judge!

We’re excited to share student testimonials from our fellow Hornets who recently participated in our programs this past summer. These testimonials offer a glimpse into their study abroad adventures. From capturing daily life abroad to reflecting on personal growth, their stories help bring the global classroom to life for the entire Hornet community. 

Art 5 – Art on Site: Mexico City

• “I was able to fulfill the Area C requirement for transfer to CSU in the best possible way! — study abroad.”
• “The most positive outcome for me was that I got to meet really wonderful people made a lot of wonderful memories. The itinerary was planned very well and all of the fun memories I made were a reflection of that.” 

ASIA 190 & INTD 199 – Japan Travel Studio

• “A unique perspective on Japan that I would not have had with any tour guide or at home learning. I am happy to have taken this course.” 
• “I really appreciated the guided experience through Japan. There are things I learned about and enjoyed that I would not have on my own.” 

COMS 168 – A Week of Rhetoric at Labastide Esparbairenque

• “I have been given the confidence to take the next step in my education in applying for graduate school. I also learned the power of good communication through how smoothly things went with my classmates due to our willingness to be open and understanding with each other.” 
• “The most positive outcome for me in this program was that I have become open and it has helped me realize the things I truly want to do in life.” 

HIST 112/ITAL 199 - Exploring the History and Culture of Naples and Rome

• “As a history major, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to go and see ancient Roman ruins with my own eyes.”
• “The most positive outcome for me in this program was the amount of historical monuments I was able to see and to have a professor who helped us along the way in our trip.” 

JAPN 199 - Sustainable management of food, agriculture and environment at Shinshu University (Internship)

• “The program did an excellent job of meeting my expectations and goals. I got to try so many fun foods that I had been looking forward to eating in Japan and I was able to practice speaking the language with locals quite a bit! I really learned and experienced even more than I had expected, and I loved every second of it.” 
• “I got more comfortable in handling myself in unknown situations, which I tend to be fairly uncomfortable with. I really learned to step outside my comfort zone and have fun trying new things, particularly with activities such as Masuyama-sensei’s insistence I try going to Akihabara before leaving–it was a lot of fun!” 

PUBH 196J – Public Health International

• “[The instructors] and the group were amazing. The experience with the Nicaraguan refugees is something I will never forget. It was an eye-opening experience.”

Want to share your study abroad story? We would love to hear from you! Share your thoughts with Gabe Hernandez.

What’s Next? A Sneak Peek at Winter, Spring Break, and Summer 2026

Get ready — our next round of adventures is already in the works! Faculty-led programs for 2026 – winter, spring break, and summer programs – are in development, and this is your chance to start dreaming (and planning) ahead. 

Want to study nursing either in Japan or London? Environmental Studies in Senegal? Maybe art in Italy? Check out program details on our website.

It’s never too early to start thinking about how studying abroad can fit into your academic journey. Remember: most programs are 1–2 weeks long, led by Sac State faculty, and designed to help you earn credit while exploring the world.

Issue 3 – Fall 2025

Program Spotlight: New Internship Program with Shinshu University

We’re excited to highlight a new international internship opportunity launched in partnership with Shinshu University in Japan. Piloted in Summer 2025, Sac State students were the very first to take part in this unique program designed for students from Shinshu’s global partner institutions.

Three Sac State students immersed themselves in the region’s renowned food culture and fermentation practices, collaborated with Shinshu University students, and engaged in hands-on learning with local communities — including elementary school visits, traditional cooking sessions, and internships at natural farming sites in southern Nagano. The experience offered powerful insight into sustainable food systems and community-based agriculture, and was even featured in a local Japanese newspaper.

Below is the English translation of the article:

American University Students Experience Rice Planting and Mochi-Making in Ina’s Hase Region — Learning About Shinshu’s Food and Environment

On June 21, 2025, students from California State University, Sacramento (CSUS) participated in rice planting, weeding, and mochi-making activities in the Hase district of Ina City at Wakka Agri, a natural farming site situated 850 meters above sea level.

The students were participants in a two-week internship program themed “Learning the Sustainability of Food and Environment in Shinshu.” The program was coordinated by the Center for Globalization at Shinshu University and welcomed students from one of its partner institutions in the United States.

In addition to experiencing traditional farming practices, the students engaged with local elementary school students through shared meals and tofu-making activities. They also visited local facilities and learned about the region’s fermentation culture and lacquerware traditions, including tours of a miso brewery in Matsumoto and a lacquerware workshop in Kiso.

During the hands-on session in Ina, students planted rice seedlings and removed weeds from rice fields. Afterward, they enjoyed freshly made mochi (rice cakes), deepening their understanding of the connection between agriculture, food, and community.

One participating architecture major from CSUS shared, “This was an entirely new experience for me. Back home, we don’t have rice fields like this. Seeing the lush mountains and getting to make mochi by hand was unforgettable.” Translator’s Note: I noticed an error – “One participating computer science major (not architecture)”

The internship program aimed to provide students with immersive, cross-cultural experiences rooted in the food systems and sustainable practices of the Shinshu region. The organizers hope it will serve as a foundation for ongoing academic exchange and collaboration between the two institutions.

Want to share your study abroad story? We would love to hear from you! Share your thoughts with Gabe Hernandez.

Are you ready for your own study-abroad adventure? At Sac State, we guarantee you will find the program that’s right for you. If you are interested in short-term programs, check out our upcoming travels on our website here. 

Are you ready for a full semester or academic year abroad? International Programs & Global Engagement (IPGE) has more than 100 options for you. Learn more about their offerings on their website here. 

Issue 3 – Spring 2025

Travel Journal – Returnees: Where are they now?

From studying abroad in Ghana to law school. Learn how Amanda DeLaby’s (class of 2023) study abroad experience shaped her academic growth and prepared her for a bright future.

“My name is Amanda DeLaby, and I was a Criminal Justice major at Sacramento State, where I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in May 2020 and later received my masters in May 2023. I was fairly involved on campus during my undergraduate time, both in my sorority, Delta Gamma and in terms of volunteer work. During the fall semester of 2018, I was informed of an opportunity in one of my criminal justice classes to study abroad on a faculty-led trip to Ghana, Africa, in July of 2019. The course being offered was a comparative criminal justice course, in which we would look at prisons, court systems, alternative dispute resolution options and the police system in Ghana and compare those systems to the systems here in America. The course sounded (and ended up being) incredible. I was extremely hesitant at first to leave the country with a group of people I did not know and to go to a country I had never thought of traveling to; however the professors, Dr. Nicole Fox and Dr. Ernest Uwazie, hosted a series of pre-course meetings which we discussed cultural norms and expectations. These pre-course meetings truly made me feel at ease and ready to set off on this adventure! Studying abroad and immersing myself in the Ghanaian culture was an unforgettable experience and one I do not hesitate to brag about. While in Ghana, we toured several criminal justice facilities, including a domestic violence center, police station, prison, courthouse, and even sat in on an alternative dispute resolution hearing where we were able to see a landlord-tenant dispute handled within the community.

Throughout the study abroad course, I constantly relied on Dr. Fox to ensure our safety and to facilitate a learning environment and experience unlike no other I had experienced. During these two weeks I built an incredible relationship with both professors, and Dr. Fox explained the criminal justice graduate program to me and encouraged me to apply. I had never thought of going to graduate school and didn’t know if I would be cut out for it, but Dr. Fox reassured me and offered to assist me in the application process, and with any questions or concerns I had. If I had not studied abroad, I would not have had the opportunity to work closely with Dr. Fox and I would certainly not have even thought about going to graduate school. Once we returned from the trip, I began to seriously think about graduate school and reached out to Dr. Fox. She assisted me with the application and provided me with reassurance that I can do it while answering my various questions. In Fall of 2019, with the assistance of Dr. Fox I applied to graduate school and was accepted shortly after. I began graduate school in fall of 2020. Without study abroad, I never would have considered going to graduate school, and I am so grateful for my experience studying abroad and pushing me to continue my studies.

Graduate school was drastically different than undergraduate in terms of workload and material. The program is designated to allow students to still work full-time jobs as the courses are three hours at night. Each course is seminar/discussion style, and each student had to be fully prepared each class to discuss the reading material. While working full time, I embarked on the graduate program, I relied heavily on Dr. Fox as I felt comfortable asking her for help due to my study abroad experience and asked her to be my thesis advisor. Dr. Fox and I worked closely and in spring of 2023, I successfully defended my thesis and graduated with my master’s in criminal justice from Sacramento State in May 2023. Writing and editing a thesis for over two years had waves of emotions, but finally finishing the thesis was a huge relief and a major life accomplishment, which would not have been possible had I not studied abroad and built relationships with incredible professors who would end up being my thesis chair and second reader.

During my time studying abroad and working on my thesis, I still had a continued passion for law and justice and knew that I wanted to go to law school at some point in my future. While finishing up my thesis, I decided to apply to law school. Again, with Dr. Fox’s assistance I applied to law school and was accepted to start in Fall of 2023. Having studied abroad, built connections and graduated from graduate school I was a preferred candidate for law school and my experiences allowed me to excel in my first year of law school. I am now in my second year, and absolutely love it. I would certainly not have continued my education to receive my master’s degree and would not have attended law school had I not taken a leap of faith and joined the Ghana Study Abroad trip. I am so grateful and thankful for the opportunities I have been given and am so excited to use my education to make a difference in the crazy world we live in today. If you have the ability to study abroad- DO IT! Studying abroad changed my life, and it will change yours too. Thank you for reading.”

Issue 2 - Spring 2025

Student Testimonials

We’re excited to share testimonials from our fellow Hornets who recently participated in our programs. Here’s what they had to say about their positive experiences in the Italy/Art 4 program:

“I was part of the winter 2025 Italy faculty lead study abroad. I am an Interior Architecture and Film Studies student and seeing so many things that I have learned in courses in real life was so surreal. I was fortunate enough to be around amazing classmates and staff, helping each other navigate this new country for most of us.  I would encourage everyone to be part of the study abroad, especially these short-term courses, as I would say they are adequate time between a good learning experience and a lot of personal growth as well.” — Viviana Garcia, Italy/Art 4 2025

Read more student testimonials from the Faculty-Led Study Abroad program here.

Below are the insights from students in the Modern Greek Language program:

“Thank you so much for your vision to create this Greek class, for the constant ’sunshine’ in your faces, your positive outlook, your supportive and memorable methods of teaching. The opportunity to connect again with the lyricism, the beauty and the poetry of the Greek language has been a gift. (And, yes, I believe the grammar creates poetry! Every day in Greek class is a positive day. I’ve already learned so much.” — Linda S., Greek 6B, Spring 2025

Read more student testimonials for the Modern Greek program here.

Resources & Support

Below are some helpful reminders for the many Hornets travelling abroad on a faculty-led program in Summer 2025:

1. Passport and Visa: Make sure you have your passport ready and check if a visa is required for your travel. If you are an F-1 student, please contact your international student advisor before leaving the U.S. In order to qualify to study abroad, F-1 students must: 

• Have a valid F-1 visa to be able to return to the U.S. after the program is over
• Have received a new Form I-20 with a travel endorsement
• Have maintained status

2. Travel insurance form (FTIP): Please submit your form and travel itinerary to Gabriel Hernandez before the deadline. 
3. Pre-departure orientation: Plan on attending the mandatory orientation scheduled for Friday, May 2, 2025, from 1-3 p.m. at the Global Lounge – located in the Library Breezeway right next to the Grumpy Mule. Parents/Support network are welcome to attend.  
4. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): Create your STEP account before you travel by visiting the US Department of State website. This is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals to enroll their trip abroad so the Department of State can accurately and quickly contact them in case of emergency. 
5. Health and Safety: Stay informed about health and safety abroad. The following resources will provide you with additional and current information about international health and safety issues:

• U.S. State Department
• U.S. State Department, Bureau of Diplomatic Security (OSAC)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• World Health Organization

Issue 1 - Spring 2025

Study Abroad Day is February 24th!

Join us in celebrating Study Abroad Day, a special day that highlights the transformative power of international education. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring new cultures, expanding your academic horizons, or developing skills for a globalized world, this is your chance to learn more about study abroad opportunities at Sac State.

In this spring edition of Hornet Travels, we hope you’ll find useful information to help you prepare for your own study abroad adventure and tools to help you tell your study abroad story.

Whether you’re curious about study abroad opportunities, preparing for your future international adventure, or back in the Hive, we want you to feel supported every step of the way.

Winter & Spring Program Spotlights

• Art 4: In January, our Hornets experienced art in person in Italy and used the cities of Rome and Florence as their classroom. Led by Dr. Rachel Miller, the program focused on the art of the Italian peninsula from the ancient period to the year 1800. Visits to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican, and Palazzo Medici were some of the highlights of this program.

• Modern Greek Language (Greek 6A & 6B): This is proof that we don’t necessarily have to leave campus to experience a new culture. Students enrolled in this virtual study abroad program are learning the Modern Greek language from professors who teach at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA) and engaging with their students. 

Did you know? 

Studying abroad doesn’t have to be a financial burden. By planning in advance and applying for financial aid and scholarships, you can turn your dream of studying abroad into a reality. Become familiar with the many different scholarship options and apply early.

Gilman Scholarship: The U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program (Gilman Program) enables students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad, providing them with skills critical to our national security and economic prosperity. To be eligible for the Gilman Program, applicants must be receiving a Federal Pell Grant during the time of application or provide proof that they will be receiving a Pell Grant during the term of their study abroad program or internship. The March 2025 deadline application will open in mid-January 2025.

Gilman-McCain Scholarship: The Gilman-McCain Scholarship provides awards of $5,000 for child and spousal dependents of active or activated United States military personnel during the time of application to study or intern abroad on credit-bearing programs. Check out their website for more information and application deadlines.

Returnees

Global experiences are more valuable than ever. Studying abroad enriches your academic experience, offering fresh perspectives that enhance both your studies and career potential. It also boosts your competitiveness in the job market. Learning how to highlight your study abroad experience will definitely set you apart from other candidates.

1. Update Your Resume: Add your study abroad program under education, including skills gained, personal growth, and cross-cultural competencies developed. Also, highlight all relevant academic or professional experiences. Don’t forget to add any community engagement or organizations you joined during your time abroad.
2. Share on LinkedIn: Create a detailed post or write an article describing the program, lessons learned, and how it enhanced your personal and professional growth.
3. Create a Portfolio or Blog: Showcase photos, reflections, or projects completed during the program to document your experiences.
4. Present to Peers or Clubs: Share insights from your time abroad with campus organizations, classes, or study abroad fairs to inspire others.
5. Integrate into Interviews: Explain how your study abroad program aligned with your major, highlighting the effect of international education on your academic growth. Highlight how the experience improved cultural awareness, adaptability, and problem-solving skills — traits valued by employers. Don’t forget to mention the challenges you faced and how you overcame them, and discuss how you plan to apply the knowledge and experiences gained abroad to advance your career goals.
6. Develop a Digital Story: Use photos, videos, or journals to create a short presentation or video summarizing your journey and its impact.
7. Write for Campus Publications: Submit an article or reflection about your experience to the university newspaper or website.

Contact Us

For questions or more information about faculty-led programs, please contact Gabriel Hernandez.

Are you ready for your own study-abroad adventure? At Sac State, we guarantee you will find a program that is right for you. If you are interested in short-term programs, please check out our upcoming programs here.

Ready for a semester or a full academic year abroad? International Programs & Global Engagement (IPGE) has more than one hundred options for you to check out.