International Programs

With educational, research and social work practice experience across three continents, including Africa, Europe and North America, Gashaye (Gash) Melaku Tefera considers himself an international social work researcher with a mission to improve the lives and representation of underserved populations. His research addresses concerns of immigrant, refugee and indigenous populations, focusing on underserved women and older adults.

Kathryn (Katie) Gerber (MSW, 2008; MPA 2008) has always had a passion for social justice. This natural interest in providing equal access to rights and opportunities drew her to social work early on. She completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Florida. Further interest in international work drew her to an opportunity to study abroad as an undergraduate to Valencia, Spain through Florida State University to gain a greater understanding of the Spanish language.

As a first-generation college student, Richard Brito wanted to make the most of the opportunity at Florida State University. Richard stated that upon arriving from his hometown of Miami, Florida, in 2016, he made a commitment to himself to strive for continued personal growth and self-discovery. Inspired by his mother and their lived experiences, he immersed himself in campus life and its opportunities.

As the director of International Programs at the FSU College of Social Work, I make frequent site visits to agency sites around the world to create and sustain international field placements for social work students.  This year, my trip happened to coincide with Brexit Day, January 31st, the day the United Kingdom (UK) officially withdrew from the European Union.

“An international study abroad experience can be both intimidating and exhilarating,” said Pam MacDill, coordinator of the Exchange Programs at the FSU College of Social Work, as well as the Director of the BSW and Professional Development Programs. “Getting out of your comfort zone and being exposed to cultures, languages, and foods that are so different from home is an enriching experience.”

As a first-generation colleges student, Samiah Bansal has experienced a wide range of new challenges, along with innumerable opportunities, in the university setting. One of her biggest dreams was to study abroad, but the challenge of funding such an adventure seemed insurmountable until she followed the example of other FSU students.

“I decided to apply for the Gilman Scholarship because I witnessed many student leaders at FSU become Gilman Scholars. It motivated me to apply,” she explained.

Pay FSU tuition, and use your summer financial aid for this experience of a lifetime!

SOW 4935 - Global Perspective on Health and Welfare - 6 elective credits

This course provides knowledge and understanding of global situations related to health and welfare. Elements included in the course: UN Sustainable Development Goals in relation to health and welfare, cultural aspects, complexity and impact of social determinants of health in different countries, International Classification on Functioning Disability and Health.

Dr. Vishanthie Sewpaul will visit Florida State University as a guest of the College of Social Work to speak across campus and the university during her visit from January 22 through January 30.

A team of FSU social work faculty including Dean Jim Clark, Dr. Tomi Gomory, Professor Fran Gomory along with Elizabeth Croney, Executive Vice President for Clinical Advancement at KVC Health Systems traveled to Hungary to present at two conferences sponsored by the University of Pécs.

Goulash, garnets, and gelato. This past summer, I had the opportunity to participate in the Prague Study Abroad trip associated with the College of Social Work. By far, the five weeks I spent in the Czech Republic (and other surrounding countries) were some of my most memorable times as a Florida State student. From making new friends, to trying new foods, to experiencing a new culture, to attending class in a foreign country, every day abroad was an adventure.