Get Involved

For Students

Students interested in exploring all the short-term study abroad trips offered by Fresno State, including International Service-Learning (International SL) opportunities, should visit the Division of Continuing and Global Education.

There are dozens of organizations that provide international service experiences.  From well-known, federal programs such as Peace Corps, to shorter-term international travel and service providers such as Madventurer, there are numerous programs that can meet most students' goals and budgets.  The Richter Center can assist students in exploring options.  However, these types of organizations and trips are not specifically endorsed by or affiliated with Fresno State.  Students should carefully research these types of options and know that the would assume full responsibility for their own involvement.

For Faculty

All "Faculty-Led, Short-Term International Travel Study Programs," including International SL, must be approved through the Division of Continuing and Global Education (CGE).  Applications for winter (December/January) and summer short term study abroad courses, including service-leaning, are typically due in February of the preceding year, requiring significant advanced planning.

CGE can assist faculty members in all facets of the study abroad process, including providing eligible students with an Instructionally Related Activity (IRA) grant to support their travel and other elated expenses.  Visit the CGE website for more information on "Faculty-Led Short Term International Study Programs," including International SL.

Depending on a variety of factors, the Richter Center can assist faculty members through the following:

• Recruiting student leaders and student participants. Recent international SL trips have included a prominent student leadership role. Student leaders work side-by-side with faculty leaders in all facets of planning and teaching the course.  This is a model we encourage, but do not require.
• As available, provide funds to support faculty travel costs (typically up to $2,000).
• Sample course syllabus, including INTD 188S, which meets upper division GE M/I requirement.
• As needed, provide faculty professional development and advice related to best practices in international SL.
• Assist with identifying prospective third-party organizations that provide international SL programs.