For over four decades, the University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) has operated from the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR), facilitating global educational experiences for students. Despite the financial constraints posed by federal budget reductions and increasing costs, the nonprofit organization is committed to maintaining access to international learning.
During International Education Week on November 17 at UNR’s Knowledge Center, students enjoyed global cuisines and explored various study abroad programs. However, the festive atmosphere masked a significant challenge: the escalating costs associated with studying abroad.
Alyssa Nota, President of USAC, expressed that this issue is not isolated, with educational programs nationwide facing similar difficulties.
“There have been federal budget cuts at universities across the U.S., and we work with hundreds of them. Some departments may be closing, and DEI efforts — diversity, equity, and inclusion — are being blocked,” Nota said.
These financial reductions have curtailed outreach efforts that inform students about available study abroad options.
To counter these obstacles, USAC has initiated a nationwide campaign to raise funds and increase awareness, focusing on expanding scholarship opportunities and assisting with essential costs such as travel and accommodation. Despite these hurdles, the enthusiasm for studying abroad remains undiminished.
Sarah Jongsma, a senior at UNR, spent the last summer in India and is planning a trip to France in the coming spring. Her international experiences have reshaped her global perspective.
“There are a lot of things that I perceived both about my own country and other places before going there. And then getting the chance to experience their lifestyle and the way that they do things,” she shared.
Initially, Jongsma thought studying abroad was financially out of her reach and not suited for someone like her, but USAC helped her discover affordable programs. She now advocates for other students to explore unconventional destinations for study.
Providing such transformative opportunities is precisely what USAC aims to preserve, even amidst challenging financial conditions, according to Nota.
