Travel the world with CLC: Studying abroad and its benefits

You might be surprised to learn that community colleges, like College of Lake County (CLC), offer study abroad programs around the world.

Last year, CLC offered programs to 5 countries. The trips last between 1-3 weeks, allowing students to travel during a busy semester. The programs cover a variety of majors, so there is something for everyone.

A Student’s Perspective: United Arab Emirates

In January 2025, ten CLC students and faculty members were the first to travel to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE study abroad is credited toward Intro to Anthropology, taught by Instructor Nina Pitrello who went on the trip.

The program was curated by Ajman University (AU) in Ajman. Ranked #6 in the UAE, according to the 2026 QS World University Rankings, AU has become an epicenter for international study in the Emirates.

“Being an anthropology student, I was very intrigued to join this study abroad.” said Callum O’Sullivan, one of the students who went on the inaugural trip. “It was my first time traveling without my family, but CLC made the process really approachable.”

Ajman’s program highlighted sustainable energy and its pivotal research happening within the country.

“We visited the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture.” O’Sullivan said, describing his favorite stop. “The ICBA’s mission is to develop sustainable agriculture for not only the Emirates, but for the globe. The Center led us around their greenhouses, irrigation sites, research labs and lecture halls.”

Is Studying Abroad Right for You?

In short, yes!

According to the National Association of Foreign Student Advisors, students who study abroad are more likely to complete their degrees or certificate programs than students who do not. They earn higher GPAs and gain greater job prospects after graduation.

Director of Global Engagement Dr. Voytek Wloch motivates students to study overseas. “Learning abroad is sought by employer. It shows that students have dealt with ‘otherness,’ and that they can assimilate into any environment.”

O’Sullivan explained, “The amount of cultural exploration I was able to do is truly incomparable to what I could receive in an American environment.” He reflected that the students and faculty he met from around the world played a fundamental role in his choice to continue to study cultural anthropology.

Studying abroad comes in all shapes and sizes, varying by academic program, location and time. There are always many choices for international study. Another student on the UAE trip, Daniel Jasso, encourages students to stay confident in the global relevance of their studies. “Every major has a place in the international community,” he said.

“Traveling together helps students belong,” Instructor Nina Pitrello, pointed out. “You get to know each other and move through the process together.”

Financial assistance is available, including the Gilman Scholarship. The scholarship, provided by the U.S. Department of State, pays up to 100% of study abroad costs for Pell Grant-eligible students. CLC has a Gilman Scholarship advisor on campus to assist students with the essay writing portion.

CLC had six Gilman Scholarship recipients this year, its highest ever. Their awards ranged from $2,000 to $3,000 each to study in Japan, England and Ireland.

Going Global: How to Succeed Internationally

CLC has a history of meaningful adventures abroad.

“Studying abroad boosts students’ intellectual curiosity,” Wloch said. He loves seeing how students grow while traveling. “There are a lot of firsts that happen, and they always manage to persevere and enjoy themselves.”

CLC creates programs so all students feel like they can study abroad. There are even scholarship opportunities available. Programs are also available for F1 non-immigrant visa students. Wloch believes inclusiveness is the utmost priority: “Everyone should get the chance to engage in a program.”

Additionally, students and faculty work side-by-side during their travels, often living in the same building and attending the same events. Nine faculty members accompanied students on their travels this year.

Whether a student is pursuing an associate or transfer degree, studying overseas throughout college gives them a better impression of the world after graduation. Community colleges encourage international travel because the experience helps students develop their global identity.

“Such a diverse city teaches you a new, holistic perspective on the region,” O’Sullivan said about his UAE experience. “I forged a connection between me and the Emirates, as well as the countries around it. When I returned to the United States, I wanted to advocate for not just sustainability, but more.”

How to Get Involved

Visit the Study Abroad FAQs on the website.

Visit, email or call the Department of Global Engagement:

Grayslake Campus, Room B172

DGE.StudyAbroad@clcillinois.edu

(847) 543-2069

Check out Instagram and Facebook to see updates about trips, and photos from students studying as we speak!