Ann Arbor Times

The University of Michigan (U-M) has been recognized as the leading public university for study abroad programs and ranks second overall in the United States, according to a report by the Institute of International Education. During the 2022-23 academic year, U-M had 3,340 U.S. students participating in international education programs, marking a significant recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic with nearly a 70% increase compared to 2020-21.

Valeria Bertacco, U-M vice provost for engaged learning, expressed pride in this achievement: “To be ranked the No. 1 public university and the No. 2 in the nation for education abroad is a testament to our commitment to provide students with ample and diverse opportunities to engage globally.”

A notable example of U-M's international engagement is a dance exchange program that took place in China during summer 2023. Five students from the School of Music, Theatre & Dance participated in this program organized by SMTD assistant professor Fangfei Miao. The trip was significant as it marked the first visit by an American dance group to China since the pandemic.

Dance major Robert Farr-Jones shared his experience: “Being fully immersed in a different culture was enlightening.” Similarly, SMTD student Rileigh Goldsmith found inspiration through her participation: “Engaging internationally with dance has inspired me to prioritize travel in my dance career.”

Kevin Wang, another participant, co-taught a hip-hop class at Shanghai Theatre Academy. He noted: “The students were eager to learn and curious about the new style.”

The Open Doors report provides comprehensive data on education abroad but does not account for all overseas activities by U-M students. Including noncredit educational activities such as internships and volunteer work, U-M had a total of 4,922 students abroad during 2022-23.

Bertacco highlighted future plans: “We are excited to continue to build on this momentum through our Global Engagement Strategic Plan.”

Recent graduate Emy Guttman also benefited from international experiences through an internship at Platos Sin Fronteras in Medellin, Colombia. She described her journey as transformative both personally and professionally: “I love Colombia... so I decided to move here and figure out what I’m going to do with my degree.”

Guttman continues her involvement with Platos Sin Fronteras while improving her Spanish skills. Reflecting on her time at U-M she said: “The University of Michigan has so much funding and support... My life has changed drastically because of this experience.”