As the spring semester begins, we are thrilled to welcome back our First-Year Semester Abroad (FYSA) students! We had 99 program participants this year: 49 through FYSA @ Georgia Tech-Europe and 50 through FYSA @ Oxford. These remarkable first-year students spent their fall semester immersed in academic and cultural experiences across Europe, and now they are bringing their global perspectives back to campus. Their homecoming marks the next chapter in their journey, and we’re hosting several events designed to help them reconnect with the campus community and reflect on their transformative experiences abroad. Read on for some highlights from their re-entry activities.
Welcome Back Celebration
We kicked off the semester with a Welcome Back Celebration, where current FYSA students were joined by program alumni. This event provided a wonderful opportunity for students to share their stories, swap advice, and build connections with peers who understand the unique challenges and rewards of studying abroad.
FYSA students attend re-entry events across campus.
OIE Re-Entry Event
The Office of International Education’s (OIE) On-Campus Internationalization (OCI) programming included a Re-Entry Event designed to help FYSA students process their experiences and integrate their newfound perspectives into life on campus. This session offered practical tools for navigating the transition back to the U.S. and making the most of their global learning.
Global Leadership/FYSA Mixer
Finally, we hosted a mixer in collaboration with our Global Leadership program, introducing FYSA students to fellow residents in their building. This event was a fantastic opportunity to foster friendships and inspire conversations about global citizenship and leadership.
In the coming weeks, FYSA students will participate in Mentor/Mentee meet-ups, an Atlanta United Game, and several other events to reacclimatize them to the Atlanta Campus.
Visit the FYSA website to learn more.