For first-generation students like Mariah Cropp, studying abroad seemed impossible until she participated in a program at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Through a collaboration between VCU’s Global Education Office (GEO) and TRIO, Cropp traveled to the Dominican Republic last spring for a service-learning experience.
The program, aimed at underserved students, allows them to engage in service projects while earning course credits. VCU partnered with 7Elements, a nonprofit in the Dominican Republic, to work on initiatives like medical outreach and sustainable housing.
With funding from GEO’s passport grant program, Cropp and her peers discussed issues like food insecurity and healthcare before and during the trip. The experience helped them build confidence and gain new perspectives on global issues.
VCU’s success led to national recognition. Lumpkin and GEO’s Stephanie Tignor presented the program at major conferences, inspiring other schools to implement similar initiatives. The program serves as a model for other universities to offer first-generation and underserved students opportunities to study abroad while making a positive impact.
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