Develop a deeper understanding of another culture through this short-term cultural exchange. Host incoming international students from Jamaica on FSU’s campus; share American culture and the experience of living on-campus at FSU. Then travel abroad and experience cultural immersion with the same international students in their home country; and explore Jamaica, participate in activities and events with host students, such as visiting local museums and historical sites, hiking, and making day trips to nearby towns.
Selection for this program is a competitive process; only 12 students are selected each year for Jamaica. The selected Beyond Borders students enroll in a one-credit hour course in the Spring semester to prepare for their international experience.
Through this program, students have the opportunity to develop a global mindset and intercultural communication skills while exploring a culture different from their own and making lifelong friendships. Students who have participated in Beyond Borders in the past say that they have gained:
- Lifelong friendships
- Interpersonal skills
- Intercultural communication skills
- Collaboration skills
- Global mindset
- Self-awareness
- Personal growth
- Adaptability and resiliency
Jamaica
University of the West Indies | March 11-18, 2023 (Spring Break)
Mid-fall, FSU students host students from the University of West Indies (UWI) for one week on FSU’s campus. During Spring Break, students are hosted by the UWI students on their campus in Kingston and have the opportunity to be immersed in Jamaican culture.
Past highlights from the cultural exchange in Jamaica have included visits to local museums and historical sites, Dunn’s River Falls in Ocho Rios, Caribbean Carnival celebrations, and community service projects.
Eligibility and Requirements for FSU students
- Have an interest in learning about the host culture of Jamaica.
- Have an interest in increasing skills in cross-cultural communication and leadership and developing global awareness.
- Participate in the planning and hosting of incoming students from Jamaica.
- Register for and complete a one-credit hour course (INR3931) during the spring semester.
- Applicants must be Sophomore standing or above and have completed two semesters of classes on FSU's campus at time of application
