By Jacquie Rath
Molloy faculty members encourage students to spend part of their college experience traveling abroad. Students have the option of spending anywhere from a few weeks to a full academic year in places such as Greece, Belgium, Japan, Thailand and Africa. According to the college Web site, the school is "committed to the belief that a true liberal arts education should expose students to diverse ideas but also to different cultures and ways of life." Travel is seen as a way to foster a global outlook and to encourage students to work collectively with people from different countries and backgrounds.
Dr. Michael Russo is a Molloy faculty member and the director of the global learning program. He has a unique perspective on learning abroad having received his degree in Philosophy from Leuven University in Belgium. According to Russo, between 200 and 250 students from Molloy take advantage of the program each year. Candidates come from various majors including business, nursing, and education disciplines. Students are not limited to just one overseas experience, they can take advantage of the school subsidized-opportunity each year they attend Molloy.
In order to continue to deliver an enriching educational experience, Molloy partners with some of the premier educational institutions around the globe. Educational partners include The University of Leon in Spain, Catholic University of Leuven in Belgium, St. Martin's College in England, New Eturia College Association in Italy and Macquarie University in Australiia. When asked how the global experience has impacted the participants, Russo said "they gain a whole different perspective - learning that the 'American Way' is not the only way."
Marisa Balsamo is a 2005 Molloy graduate. During her time at Molloy, she took part in multiple global excursions. "I traveled around the world and I learned a lot from my experiences," said Balsamo who traveled to Thailand, Belgium, and Germany as part of her cross-cultural enrichment. "Most of what I learned opened my eyes to a completely different culture. I cherish my time abroad and would encourage all Molloy students to participate in these programs
The office of global learning is looking to expand program offerings. Plans include more opportunities for students to travel to Asia and other countries. Russo and his staff are also looking to offer programs for professionals on Long Island. They plan to begin with a pilot program in Southern France for nursing professionals.
To learn more about the programs offered by Molloy's global learning office, call (516) 678-5000 ext. 6672 or visit their Web site at www.molloy.edu/global.
