International flavor was on the menu as over 350 Honors students gathered in the new Judy Genshaft Honors College building to savor cuisine from around the world and explore the diverse array of study abroad opportunities offered by the college.
On Thursday, Sept. 21, 2023 the Judy Genshaft Honors College and the Judy Genshaft Honors College Living Learning Community hosted the annual Tapas Night Study Abroad Expo on the University of South Florida’s Tampa campus. The Study Abroad Expo, fondly known as Tapas Night, allowed students to learn more about 12 upcoming Honors-designed study abroad experiences.
Each study abroad program featured a booth in the Honors building atrium where students could speak to trip leaders about the details and unique aspects of each study abroad trip. “I think it was a really cool experience for me to learn more about what’s available for study abroad and to be able to expand the horizons of what I can do here at USF. And the food was amazing,” said Judy Genshaft Honors College student Savannah Wilson.
THE BIGGEST EVENT OF THE YEAR
One of the largest Honors events every year, Tapas Night plays a crucial role in helping students understand the value and impact of immersing themselves in another culture. While reflecting on his time abroad Judy Genshaft Honors College Student Engagement Coordinator, Dan Woods, shared how his experiences aided in his personal growth:
“For me study abroad, allowed me to have a different cultural lens. It’s about the connections we create between cultures which is now more important than ever,” said Woods.
Glo-bull ambassadors and Honors peer mentors were on hand to provide peer-to-peer advice, practical tips for travel, and answer any questions that students had. Honors students were also able to learn about the meaningful resources and scholarships available at USF from the Office of National Scholars and the Honors academic advisors in attendance. ONS and Honors advisors provided students insight into financial aid, research, and degree progressions. This helped students to navigate fitting their needed coursework into a study abroad experience and finding sources for financial aid to make their international journeys possible.
“The Honors experience affords students amazing opportunities and resources. I really encourage all of our students to take advantage of them,” said Judy Genshaft Honors College Academic Advisor Megan Braunstein. “For our students, it’s important to think through what is means to be a global citizen while respecting and encouraging the development of other cultures. These programs go a long way in developing that frame of mind.”
To learn more about studying abroad with the Judy Genshaft Honors College click here.
Dr. Benjamin Scott Young speaks to eager students about the Honors Semester in Exeter and USF in London trips.
Dr. Cayla Lanier, Joey Sousa, Dr. Lindy Davidson, and Dennis Mont’Ros wave the flag of the Dominican Republic over their booth at Tapas Night.
Program leads, Kevin Lee and Dr. Davison give a “Go Bulls!” for Honors Study abroad programs.
Glo-bull ambassadors and peer mentors provide students with support and insight on their experiences with Honors study abroad.
Sharing the love, Dr. Elizabeth Doone and Honors student Suhas Das, speak of their transformative experiences working with a children’s home in Ghana.
Honors Bulls are excited to embark on their own Honors study abroad adventures.
The Tampa Judy Genshaft Honors College Student Council hosted internationally themed trivia.
Global flavors were embraced as student and faculty volunteers served attendees with an array of international food options.
National Merit Scholar Coordinator Audra Santerre shares the heart and soul of the South Korea Beyond the Classroom experience.
Dr. Teresa Greely engaging students with breezy Bahama vibes.