Travel Study

What do France, Japan, China, and Senegal have in common? They were all destinations for our adventurous Hornets this past summer!

Nearly 70 Sac State students packed their bags and headed overseas through faculty-led study abroad programs. Along the way, they earned academic credit, made lasting friendships, explored new cultures, and gained fresh perspectives on their fields of study. And the best part? They did it all in two weeks or less! Not a bad way to spend part of the summer, right?

Most of our Hornets left the hive in late May, ready to turn their classrooms into the world!

France: A Journey Through History and Rhetoric

For the fifth consecutive year, Professor Irwin led students to the medieval city of Carcassonne, France, for COMS 168. This week-long advanced seminar brought the history, theory, and practice of rhetorical criticism to life in a setting rich with history and culture. It’s no wonder this program continues to be a student favorite!

Japan: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Japan welcomed not one, but two groups of Hornets this past summer!

For the second time, Professors Dym and Potts led students on an architectural adventure through Tokyo, Takamatsu, Osaka, and surrounding areas. Through ASIA 190 and INTD 196J, students explored why Japan has had such an extraordinary influence on architecture and design worldwide. From traditional structures to modern innovations, this experiential journey brought Japanese cultural and architectural history to life.

Meanwhile, another group of Hornets ventured into rural Japan through JAPN 199, trading bustling city streets for agricultural communities. Students explored Japan’s food systems, the challenges facing its agriculture and food-processing industries, and the impact of globalization on food production and distribution. Through hands-on learning at Shinshu University and visits with local agricultural communities, students gained a deeper understanding of the connections between food, culture, and sustainability.

This summer also marked the debut of two exciting faculty-led programs, expanding opportunities for Hornets to explore the world through global learning.

China: Language Learning Beyond the Classroom

In May, Professor Wu led students to Nanjing, China, for the inaugural CHIN 199: Sacramento State in Nanjing, China program.

Designed for students who completed CHIN 1B or its equivalent, the program offered an immersive experience in Chinese language and culture. Mornings were dedicated to language classes, while afternoons brought learning to life through visits to historical and cultural landmarks, accompanied by lectures and vocabulary lessons.

Students also traveled to Yangzhou, an important economic center during late imperial China, gaining an even deeper appreciation for the country’s rich history. What better way to practice a language than to experience the culture firsthand?

Senegal: Exploring Global Challenges, Making Local Connections

In early July, another group of Hornets embarked on a meaningful journey to Senegal, where learning extended far beyond the classroom.

Led by Professors Asseko (ENVS 110) and Richards (ETHN 170), this new program explored the powerful connections between race, the environment, and public health.

Students visited national museums to discover Senegal’s rich history and culture before examining pressing environmental challenges firsthand. Visits to areas affected by pollution, including Pink Lake and coastal fishing communities, revealed how water pollution and deforestation can impact public health and local livelihoods.

Through interactions with community organizations and local scholars, students gained valuable perspectives on environmental justice and the importance of community-based solutions.

From exploring medieval France and studying architecture in Japan to practicing Mandarin in China and examining environmental justice in Senegal, our Hornets discovered that some of the most meaningful lessons happen beyond the classroom.

Do I need to be enrolled in the course to join the program? Can I go without taking the Sac State course?

You do need to be enrolled in the course to travel with the group. All faculty-led study abroad programs are tied to Sac State classes, so enrollment in the course is required to participate. Think of it as a class with an exciting international twist — you’ll learn both in and outside the classroom!

Can freshmen apply?

Absolutely! However, check with the faculty leader first. While most programs are open to all academic levels, some programs do require applicants to be in upper-division standing to apply.

Can my spouse/partner/children/parents travel with me?

We know it’s tempting to share an international adventure with family and friends! However, faculty-led programs are academic experiences designed specifically for enrolled participants.

To maintain the academic focus and ensure everyone’s safety, family members and friends cannot join the group or coordinate personal travel that overlaps with the program. There will be plenty of opportunities to share your adventures when you return!

What if I am not a Sac State student?

No worries! You can still apply for our short-term study abroad programs. If you’re accepted, you’ll be enrolled as an Open University (OU) student at Sac State. The CCE team will help get you set up with a Sac State ID number. Once you have that, you’ll be able to activate your Sac State account, pay for the program, and complete your online pre-departure orientation. We’ll guide you through every step!

Can I apply for more than one program?

You sure can if the dates of the programs don’t overlap. If you wish to participate in more than one program, please contact your CCE Support Team to discuss this option.

How do I apply?

Ready to take the next step? It’s easy! Just email our CCE Study Abroad team, and we’ll send you the application link and help you get started. Your next adventure could be just one application away!

I don’t have a passport yet. Can I still apply?

Yes, you can still apply! But since you’ll need a valid passport to travel, it is super important to start the process now if you don’t already have one — or if yours is expired or about to expire.

Good news: Sac State has a passport office right on campus! They take both appointments and walk-ins. If you’re planning to walk in, just call ahead at 916-278-7940 to check availability.

 How much does a faculty-led study abroad program cost?

Great question! Costs vary depending on the destination, duration, and activities. Our CCE team can help you understand the estimated costs so you can plan and avoid surprises!

Can I use Financial Aid to cover costs?

Possibly! Depending on your eligibility, financial aid may help cover some of your study abroad expenses. Summer financial aid availability can vary, so we encourage you to contact Sac State’s Financial Aid Office early to explore your options. A great place to start is completing your FAFSA application!

Are there scholarship opportunities for students?

Yes! If you are a current Sac State student, be sure to check out Sac State’s Scholarships website for scholarships specifically for study abroad. Most of these are only available to current students — unfortunately, alumni and community members are not eligible.

If you’re joining a faculty-led program, you can also apply for national scholarships like the Hostelling International Explore the World Travel Scholarships, Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship Program, and more.

For a full list of outside scholarship opportunities, feel free to reach out to your CCE Support Team. We’re happy to help!

Sac State also offers semester and year-long programs at a variety of locations in more than 20 countries around the world.For a list of all our programs, check out the International Programs & Global Engagement (IPGE) website.

Dreaming about your next adventure? We’re getting ready for another exciting summer of global learning, with faculty-led programs offering opportunities to explore new cultures, earn academic credit, and experience your coursework in a whole new way.

Stay tuned! In our next issue, we’ll introduce our Summer 2027 destinations and help you discover where your next academic adventure could take you.

In the meantime, have questions? Our CCE Study Abroad team is just an email away.

Head to Vienna and discover the history of counseling and psychotherapy while exploring multicultural approaches to mental health. An exciting opportunity for future counseling professionals!

EDC 205 | July 11–21

Take your Chinese language learning beyond the classroom in Nanjing! Practice Mandarin, explore historic landmarks, experience local traditions, and discover the city’s rich cultural heritage.

CHIN 199 | May 30–June 12

Experience Costa Rican culture while exploring how health, risk prevention, and well-being intersect. See public health from a new perspective and gain insights that can shape your future career.

PUBH 190 | July 11–19

Trade your usual classroom for a writer’s retreat in the beautiful Occitanie region! Immerse yourself in rhetorical theory and criticism while drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape and history.

COMS 168 | May 29–June 8

From Nice to Monaco and Cannes, explore the art, history, cuisine, and culture of southern France. Museums, historic villages, and breathtaking Mediterranean scenery? Oui, please!

FREN 199 | June 11–24

What started as a foreign language course from the comfort of your own home has blossomed into an immersive experience. Spend two weeks strengthening your Modern Greek language skills with guided museum visits, expert lectures, and excursions to the legendary sites of Mycenae and Delphi. 

GREK 199 | June 2 – 25, 2027

Discover Ireland’s stunning landscapes, ancient mythology, folklore, and artistic traditions. Through workshops, cultural excursions, and sketchbook activities, turn your Irish adventure into creative inspiration.

ART 160 | In Ireland July 18–28

Ancient ruins, iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and centuries of history await! Experience Italian culture firsthand while exploring the art, archaeology, and historical influences that continue to shape the modern world.

HIST 112 / Italian studies course | In Italy May 27–June 6

Discover Japan beyond the big cities! Explore sustainable agriculture, food production, and environmental practices through hands-on learning at Shinshu University. An optional rural internship offers another way to deepen your experience.

JAPN 199 | May 24–June 6

From Frida Kahlo’s Casa Azul to the ancient pyramids of Teotihuacan, experience art where it comes alive! Explore murals, museums, artist studios, and the vibrant creative culture of Mexico City.

ART 5 | In Mexico City June 14–23

What can another culture teach us about how people learn and grow? Explore human development and education through classroom observations, cultural experiences, and conversations with Spanish academics.

CHAD 30 | In Spain June 15–24

Welcome to the Spring edition of Hornets Travels – your go-to source for all things study abroad! Inside, you will find information on new programs, travel updates, student testimonials and much more.

Did You Know? Study Abroad is Growing Again!

• In 2023/24, the total number of U.S. students who studied abroad for academic credit increased by 6% to 298,180 students.
• Where are students going? Europe hosted 64% of all U.S. students who studied abroad, with the top destinations being Italy (15%) and the U.K. and Spain (tied at 12%).
• What are the fastest-growing destinations? New Zealand (up 27%) and Portugal (up 22%)
• How long do students go? Short-term programs dominate:

1. Summer programs: 39.4%
2. Eight weeks or less during the year: 22.8%

• Who studies abroad? Of all U.S. undergraduates, 10% study abroad at some point during their degree

Source: The Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange (2025 Fast Facts)

Program Highlights

This past January, more than 30 students spent their winter intersession abroad while earning academic credit toward their degrees.

For the first time, Nursing students had the opportunity to study abroad and incorporate international experiences into their curriculum. Led by Dr. Carel Mountain and Dr. Deborah Finn-Romero, students explored health profession roles in Japan, returning with new perspectives to inspire their practice and peers while fostering interest in future global learning opportunities. This program was offered in partnership with Ehime University’s School of Medicine.

Students enrolled in NURS 193 & NURS 195 – Nursing Study Abroad in Japan not only visited hospitals and collaborated with peers from Ehime University, but also toured Hiroshima and participated in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

For the third time, nearly 20 students experienced art in person in Italy, using the cities of Rome and Florence as their classroom. This nine-day program, led by Professor Laurie Seban, was designed to make art more accessible to participants — including community college students, Sac State students, members of the Renaissance Society, and lifelong learners interested in European visual traditions.

ART 4 focused on the art of the Italian peninsula from the ancient period through 1800. Visits to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican, Palazzo Medici, and the Tower of Pisa were among the many highlights of this immersive program.

Our adventures will not stop here — continue reading to learn about our upcoming Summer 2026 programs!

Summer 2026

If you signed up for one of our summer programs, you are in for a treat! This coming summer, Sac State will be traveling to China, France, Italy, Japan, and Senegal. Students will experience firsthand:

• The history, arts, cuisine, and vibrant local communities of Nanjing, China
• The writing of an individual theorist, inspired by the beautiful scenery of the Occitanie Mountains in France — historic home of French Resistance efforts
• The rich history and vibrant culture of Naples, Rome, and Salerno
• Japan’s influence on architecture and design
• Japan’s food production and distribution systems
• The connections between race, environment, and public health in Senegal

Did you miss the chance to sign up for a 2026 program but still want to internationalize your education? Don’t worry — details about Winter and Summer 2027 programs are coming soon!

For more information – or to start planning your global journey – visit the Faculty-Led Study Abroad webpage.

Ready for a semester or full academic year abroad? International Programs & Global Engagement (IPGE) has more than one hundred options for you.

Welcome back! We knew you’d be excited to hear directly from students about their experiences in our winter programs.

Student Testimonials: Stories from the Hive

Meet Zoey Gill, a Sacramento State Art Education alumna, Class of 2025, whose passion for global learning led her to participate in two faculty-led study abroad programs. Her latest adventure took her to Italy for ART 4 during Winter 2026. We asked Zoey to reflect on her study abroad experience, and here’s what she shared:

“I was able to attend the Sac State Study Faculty-Led Study Abroad trip to Italy earlier this year, my second international trip with fellow Hornet students. The first of which was the Mexico City trip hosted last summer. Both trips changed my life. I’ve always wanted to travel, but always had a fear of traveling alone. Going with other students and professors I was familiar with helped ease my mind and made the fear of the unknown less palatable. The fact that almost everything was planned and taken care of prior to our arrival was also a huge weight off. All I had to do was show up ready to learn and immerse myself in all the culture and beauty of these countries. I would attend both again in a heartbeat and would actually love the opportunity to help the next round of students feel confident and supported abroad, but I hope this is a good start for now. If you’re thinking about studying abroad, do it, you won’t regret it!”

Resources and Support: Travel Smart

Here are some helpful reminders for the many Hornets travelling abroad on a faculty-led program in Summer 2026.

1. Passport and Visa: Make sure you have your passport ready and check if a visa is required for your travel. If you are an F-1 student, please contact your international student advisor before leaving the U.S. To qualify to study abroad, F-1 students must:

• Have a valid F-1 visa to be able to return to the U.S. after the program is over
• Have received a new Form I-20 with a travel endorsement
• Have maintained status

2. Travel insurance form (FTIP): Please submit your form and travel itinerary to Gabriel Hernandez before the deadline.

3. Pre-departure orientation: Plan on attending the mandatory orientation scheduled for 1 – 3 p.m. on Friday, May 1, 2026, in Modoc Hall – Willow Suites 1, 2, and 3. Parents/support network are welcome to attend.

4. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): Create your STEP account before you travel by visiting the US Department of State website. This is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals to enroll their trip abroad so the Department of State can accurately and quickly contact them in case of emergency.

5. Health and Safety: Stay informed about health and safety abroad. The following resources will provide you with additional and current information about international health and safety issues:

• U.S. State Department
• U.S. State Department, Bureau of Diplomatic Security (OSAC)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• World Health Organization

Additional information on travel concerns, along with explanations, can be found in the CSU International Travel Guidance. For questions or more information about faculty-led programs, contact Alessandra McMorris.

Welcome to the third edition of Hornets Travels! Studying abroad is exciting, life-changing, and sometimes… exhausting. In your feedback, many of you shared that adjusting to new time zones and travel schedules was one of the biggest challenges. In this edition, we’re sharing your insights — along with practical tips to help future travelers adjust faster and make the most of every moment abroad.

Student Voices: “What I Wish I Knew Before I Left”

“Jet lag was a big issue, however it was not really the program’s fault. I arrived in Japan three days before the start of the program in an attempt to get ‘acclimated’ to the Japanese time zone. I guess it takes me a little longer than three days.” NURS 193 – Japan

“I appreciate Laurie making some morning sites required and other afternoon ones optional. But I think the trip should be one day longer so we can at least have one free day – for some to sleep in and just get over jet lag, others wanted more relaxed days at a cafe to sketch and write in their journal, while some wanted to squeeze in contemporary art museums and galleries, and some to complete all their souvenir shopping to focus just on the art.” ART 4 – Italy

“A major challenge was coming back from the trip and adjusting to the timezone in the same weekend as the semester starts. I suggest moving the whole trip a week early, in order to help students recover from jet lag and have extra time to be ready when school begins.” ART 4 – Italy

“Challenges; wasn’t prepared for the long travel and jet lag- first time- but that is not something you guys can prevent. Maybe provide tips for students to help prepare them for these elements?” ART 4 – Italy

Travel Tips: Beating Jet Lag: Arrive Ready to Explore

Long flights are exciting… but jet lag? Not so much. The good news is that a few simple strategies can help you adjust faster and feel energized when your program begins.

Here’s how to reset your internal clock and hit the ground running:

1. Shift Your Sleep Before You Go

One of the best ways to reduce jet lag actually starts at home.

• Begin adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before departure.
• Gradually move your bedtime and wake-up time closer to your destination’s time zone.
• Once you’re aligned, stick to a regular sleep routine — yes, even on weekends.

via GIPHY

via GIPHY

Small adjustments ahead of time can make a big difference after arrival.

2. Sync to Local Time

As soon as you arrive, start following the local schedule — even if you’re tired.

• Get morning sunlight to help reset your internal clock. A short walk outside can make a big difference.
• In the evening, limit bright light (especially screens) to help your body wind down.

The faster you adapt to the local rhythm, the faster you’ll feel like yourself again.

3. Support Your Body

Travel can be dehydrating and exhausting, so take care of yourself along the way.

• Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your flight.
• Eat hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables when possible.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can disrupt your sleep.
• Some students use melatonin, but be sure to consult a healthcare provider first.

Your body will adjust more easily if it’s well hydrated and nourished.

via GIPHY

via GIPHY

4. Reset & Recharge

Quality rest doesn’t just happen — you can help create it.

• Regular exercise can improve sleep (just avoid intense workouts right before bed).
• Try relaxation techniques like deep breathing, stretching, or meditation to wind down.

Remember: it’s completely normal to feel off for a few days. Be patient with yourself — your body is adjusting to an exciting new adventure.

Final Thoughts

Studying abroad comes with challenges — but with preparation and flexibility, those challenges quickly become part of the adventure. We’re proud of our Hornets for embracing new experiences with resilience and curiosity. As you prepare for your own journey, remember: a little planning goes a long way, and the rewards are worth it.

Safe travels, and we can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next!

Studying abroad is more than visiting another country — it’s learning in context. It’s stepping outside your comfort zone, engaging with new perspectives, and experiencing your curriculum firsthand. That blend of structure and adventure often leads to something deeper: growth, clarity, and confidence. This is exactly what our Hornets discovered in Japan and Italy this past winter.

Student Voices: Suitcases and Success

“It actually exceeded my expectations. Everyone was so welcoming and helpful. Students from both countries shared their ideas and experiences. The doctors who welcomed us were also really pleasant. They all shared their scope of practice and showed us how the hospital system works in Japan. I learned lots of insights and new ideas throughout the trip.” NURS 193 – Japan

“I was able to learn not only school content but also about the culture in Japan.” NURS 195 – Japan

“I have seen so many great artworks. This has inspired my own artwork and renewed my love for art.” Art 4 – Italy

“Being able to see and study pieces in person that I have only seen in pictures and books was so surreal. Giving me a much deeper understanding for said works, even greater than I could’ve ever expected.” Art 199 – Italy

“I came back to the states with a new idea of what I wanted in life and how to achieve it.” Art 199 – Italy

Landing with Impact: Building Your Global Future

Studying abroad does more than expand your passport — it strengthens your résumé. In a national survey, 94% of alumni said their study abroad experience helped them build career-ready skills, and more than half reported it helped them secure their first job after graduation. Employers consistently value the skills students gain overseas, including adaptability, cross-cultural communication, independence, and problem-solving in unfamiliar environments. Navigating a new country builds confidence and resilience that stand out in interviews. Study abroad can also enhance graduate school applications by demonstrating intellectual curiosity, global awareness, and the ability to thrive outside your comfort zone — qualities admissions committees look for in strong candidates.

Ready to stand out in your future job search? Ready to bring global learning into your academic journey? Your global experience starts with a single step. Connect with us to explore upcoming programs and discover how studying abroad can shape your future.

Study Abroad by the Numbers at Sac State

• 7 Faculty-Led Programs
• 97 Hornets Abroad in 2026
• 5 Countries Visited