Approved and effective as of March 1, the Study Abroad Office has created a global perspectives certificate for students who meet certain requirements during their time at the University.  

Ingrid Schmidt, the associate vice provost for International Affairs and the director of the Study Abroad Office, said the inspiration for this program came from similar programs already in place at schools across the country.

“The certificate combines service and academics, and because of N.C. State’s land grant status, it is a perfect fit for this campus,” she said.  

The Global Perspectives Certificate Web site itemizes the requirements student must achieve to gain the certificate.  Students must work one-on-one with a faculty mentor to achieve an international experience, fulfill certain levels of academic coursework, participate in co-curricular and service activities, as well as completing a final project.

According to Schmidt, the certificate has many different purposes, including giving students an edge when they begin searching for jobs.  

“For those students who are already active in international studies, this is the a perfect way to recognize and appreciate their service and participation in activities,” Schmidt said. “With the current economy and the job market being what it is, this will give students that extra edge when entering the work force. Companies with global set-ups and international employees appreciate people who understand and are aware of cultures from around the world.”

According to Anna Fitzpatrick, the global perspectives certificate coordinator, “the certificate also helps to nationalize N.C. State, making it more well-rounded.”

“Employers will notice that,” she said.

Fitzpatrick said the certificate program is not quite the amount of work a student would have to complete to earn a minor. Fitzpatrick described a minor as being more coursework, while the certificate focuses on co-curricular activities and service projects.  

“It is important that all students get an international experience,” Schmidt said.

Schmidt also said the certificate not only benefits students directly involved with the program but will give advantages to the entire campus.

“With this certificate, students that do not get the chance to travel abroad still get exposed to different cultures through the presentations and projects completed by the students directly involved in the program,”  she said.

With more than 60 students already involved in the program, Schmidt said she hopes to inspire any student that has an interest in international affairs to get involved.  

“Students interested in the program on any level should go to the website to further explore the program and tools offered,” she said.  

Schmidt said she was excited about the strength and challenges the program will be able to give students.

“It is personally rewarding when you take on the challenge of going to another country and coming back to share your experience with your home campus,” she said. “This program embodies the goals of challenging yourself and going beyond what you would have otherwise.”