As a member of the first group of API Alumni Specialists, it has been a remarkable experience once again with API and has shaped my future prospects in life. The journey over the course of the yearlong Alumni Specialist program started with my intention of wanting to share more about my study abroad experience. Having studied abroad, I had so much to tell about France, being a participant with API and advice for prospective students. Writing monthly posts and blogs on topics ranging from pre-departure, immersion in the host culture, and expectations vs. reality, gave me the chance to express just how impactful having a global experience was for me in more words that “It was awesome!” Each assignment rekindled treasured study abroad memories and allowed me to relive in a way what I stored away of the life that I had abroad. Retelling the stories abroad that I share with other study abroad friends and my host family encouraged me to connecting with my host mom and friends from abroad. Our Supervisor, Chelsea Kindred, saw the uniqueness that we, Alumni Specialists, had to offer to API and the Global Education community beyond the expectations that were originally established for the program. She incorporated Global Education projects from other institutions, opportunities to work with API’s Marketing team, and plugged us into the Lessons From Abroad Conferences. Because of my participation in API’s Alumni Specialist program, my exposure to Study Abroad Professionals and guidance of API, I have found a career field in Global Education that I am excited to embark upon.
Simone Biasuzzi, API Alumni Specialist 14-15