The Institute of Global Studies has been awarded more than $4 million during 2018-22 academic years to develop new curriculum that improves the readiness of graduates for life in a globalized world and to support students in the less commonly taught languages. Projects include the development of new courses, practica, and internships that take advantage of global-local connections in the Twin Cities, as well as connecting campus curricula to opportunities abroad.

The Institute for Global Studies is a community of students and scholars who explore today’s most pressing global issues. We make connections across boundaries— geographic boundaries, disciplinary boundaries, cultural boundaries, and boundaries across communities.

At a time of unrest in South Africa, Marna Wal had the opportunity to experience protest culture firsthand. While studying abroad at the University of Cape Town, Wal was immersed in a student movement organized around increased tuition rates. This unique social atmosphere gave her insight into the complicated political culture of post-apartheid South Africa.

How can a country’s culture and migration regulations affect an immigrant’s ability to adjust? Professor Cawo Abdi studies the diaspora of Somali people and how they’ve adjusted to their new homelands. She finds that while Somali refugees remain hopeful that they will find a sense of belonging, they face unexpected challenges when adjusting to life in a new country.

Christie Nicoson graduated in 2013 from the University of Minnesota with a global studies major. Since then she has been developing her professional skills and working toward a master’s degree in climate change, peace and conflict while studying at Uppsala University in Sweden.

A 2017-2018 series of events exploring Seeking refuge in a Changing World

Having served as director of the Human Rights Program since 2001, Barbara Frey is heavily involved in engaging students and researchers with real-world human rights issues happening in the United States and countries around the world.

During her time in CLA, international relations alumna Mary Hamel was fascinated by her experiences in intercultural communications. She says, "For me these experiences were life changing, and many years later continue to inform how I view the world."

For the Laces, global studies runs in the family! The siblings attribute their fascination with global studies to their parents, who have always encouraged travel and learning through discovery.