Participation in University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) global experiences programs increased 16% this academic year to 852 students, continuing a two-year surge fueled by innovation, campus support and affordable partnerships in Mexico City, Prague and Seoul.
“Students that are going abroad are looking for an experience that will separate them from other students,” Director of the Global Experiences Office, Marnie Nelson, said.
Participation increased 16% this academic year and is approaching the university’s pre-pandemic record of 920 students in 2018-19. Talking to peers, friends and faculty members has encouraged many students to take initiative toward studying abroad, Nelson said.
Nelson said that growth is tied to support from academic advisors, the Office for Services for Students with Disabilities, Husker Hub, the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid and the William H. Thompson Scholars Learning Community. A critical component of the office’s success is its team of Global Experiences coordinators, who work with students interested in studying abroad and collaborate with faculty across UNL’s nine colleges.
Innovative ideas from faculty have also helped with the growth in Global Experience, Nelson said.
“The future of Global Experience is innovation,” Nelson said. “I want to work with our units on campus to find new ways and paths to experience abroad.”
Among recent innovations, earlier this year, it was announced that the Global Experiences Office (GEO) hosted their first Nebraska in Mexico City program with four tracks. The tracks focused on topics including culture and community, agriculture and sustainability, entrepreneurship and other academic interests. Nelson said this inaugural hub was a great success.
The goal of these tracks is to introduce students to the diverse cultural elements found in Mexico City and assist more students in participating in an affordable program abroad, Nelson said.
“This experience pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me see entrepreneurship through a new lens. I was especially inspired by the emphasis on hospitality and personal connection throughout Mexico City. It reinforced the idea that building relationships and understanding customers are skills that matter in any industry, no matter where you are in the world,” College of Business undergraduate, Duley Mendez-Rodriguez said.
This program was last offered in May 2026 but has been confirmed to be held again next year in May 2027, where they plan to host eight tracks throughout the summer.
According to the UNL Global Experience website, cost of studying abroad can be a barrier for students. Through new connections with Mexico City, Prague and Seoul, GEO has curated programs that allow students to study abroad in the summer for less than $7,000.
The programs provide a more affordable option for students who may not have previously considered studying abroad, Nelson said.
Husker Abroad 101 is a drop-in workshop that was designed to help UNL students start their global experience planning. The sessions walk you through program options, planning steps and funding.
Nelson said GEO is now offering virtual drop-in appointments through Husker Abroad 101. This is part of an initiative to provide new ways to connect with students that aren’t always on campus during the summer.
“Were an office that likes to collaborate, so bring ideas, bring new and creative ways of thinking abroad to us and we are happy to support you,” Nelson said.
UNL’s study abroad programs are becoming more accessible through lower-cost options, expanded partnerships and increased student support. Students interested in studying abroad can begin the process by attending a Huskers Abroad 101 workshop, which will be offered three times a week during the fall and spring semesters.
