At Sacramento State, the classroom doesn’t always have four walls. Sometimes, it looks like a clinic in Costa Rica, a karaoke bar in Japan, or a sunlit plaza in Italy. Through the Faculty-Led Study Abroad (FLSA) program run by the College of Continuing Education (CCE), students are discovering that some of the most powerful lessons happen far beyond campus.

These short-term study abroad experiences — often two to four weeks long — are guided by Sac State faculty who bring their courses to life in global settings. Each program combines academic rigor with experiential learning, allowing students to earn credit while immersing themselves in the culture, history, and real-world context of their studies.

For students, that blend of structure and adventure often leads to something deeper: growth, connection, and self-discovery.

Health, Heritage, and Heart in Central America

For Ana Elizabeth Muñoz, the journey to Costa Rica and Guatemala was more than a class—it was a homecoming.

“I chose this program because it combined my interests in health and culture,” she said. “I wanted to learn about healthcare systems in Central America while also connecting with the history and traditions of the region.”

As someone with Guatemalan roots, Muñoz had always felt a pull toward her family’s country of origin. Traveling there for the first time as part of the Faculty-Led Study Abroad program was both emotional and empowering.

“Visiting local clinics and hospitals and speaking directly with medical professionals gave me a new perspective on healthcare access, prevention, and community health,” she said. “It helped me feel more connected to my roots while strengthening my adaptability and global awareness.”

The experience confirmed her desire to become a physician assistant—one who understands how culture shapes health. “It’s truly eye-opening,” she said. “You step out of the classroom and learn directly from real-world experiences.”

A Taste of Japan—and a Glimpse of the Future

For Lauren Mangels, studying abroad was a dream she wanted to test-drive before committing to a longer stay. Through the JAPN 199 Summer Internship program in Japan, she got that chance.

“My most memorable experience was getting together with some students from the local university and going to karaoke together,” she said. “Everyone involved was so organized and easy to talk with.”

What began as a two-week academic adventure quickly turned into inspiration for the future. 

“The program made me more certain that I could study abroad for a semester—or even a year,” she said. Mangels now plans to return to Japan to teach English and keep indulging in her favorite discovery: authentic Japanese cuisine.

“I already miss being able to walk everywhere in Japan,” she added with a laugh.

A Journey Through Italy and Mexico

When Julianna McMorris joined Sac State’s study abroad trips to Italy and Mexico, she didn’t just travel—she transformed.

“Both trips were life changing,” she said. “I learned so much about the cultures and enjoyed getting to know my classmates better, visiting famous monuments and museums, and trying new, amazing foods.”

Her advice to anyone considering the opportunity? “If you have the chance, take it! The study abroad experience with Sac State is enjoyable, fun, and a must-do for anyone looking to experience another country while in college.”

From Sacramento to the World: Heart of Travel’s Connection

Behind many of these transformative experiences are strong partnerships—and one of the most meaningful connections is with Heart of Travel, a women-led, Latino-founded travel company that brings authenticity and care to every journey.

Its founder, Chelsea Glass, knows Sacramento State well. A proud alumna with a master’s in Spanish, Glass says her mission began with a simple idea: to break down misconceptions about Latin America and build bridges through travel.

“More than anything, I hope the experience broadens students’ empathy,” Glass said. “I want them to see the complexity and shared humanity in the world.”

Working with CCE’s Faculty-Led Study Abroad program, Glass and her team craft experiences that go beyond sightseeing. Each trip is a collaboration between educators, communities, and students—rooted in respect and discovery.

“There’s a lot of heart in everything we do,” she said. “We can’t wait to share that with CSUS and our travelers for years to come.”

A World of Possibility

From learning about healthcare in rural Guatemala to walking the streets of Tokyo, Sac State students are gaining more than course credits—they’re gaining perspective.

As the CCE team emphasizes, these programs are open to all majors and are designed to make global learning accessible. Faculty leaders handle logistics, safety, and curriculum, so students can focus on the experience itself: learning, connecting, and growing.

For many, like Muñoz, those lessons last a lifetime.

“Absolutely, I would study abroad again,” she said. “This experience showed me how valuable it is for personal growth and academic development.”

Learn More About CCE’s FLSA Programs

Adventure, culture, and learning await — because at Sac State, the world is part of your education. Explore our upcoming Faculty-Led Study Abroad opportunities.