Immersive study abroad builds language skills and global readiness in Arkansas
University students must develop foreign language fluency and cross-cultural competence to remain competitive in today’s global workforce. Traditional classroom instruction often limits opportunities for real-world language practice and cultural immersion, creating gaps in applied communication skills.
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, through its Office of International Programs and Studies and the Department of English, Humanities and Foreign Languages, launched a month-long study abroad program in Costa Rica to support students enrolled in the university’s Spanish minor. The program emphasized immersive learning by placing students with host families instead of hotels, allowing daily language use and meaningful cultural exchange.
Participants engaged in experiential activities such as visiting local markets, participating in cultural excursions and interacting with community members. Financial support from scholarships, including the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, helped reduce participation barriers and expand access to global learning opportunities.
Students demonstrated measurable gains in Spanish reading, writing, speaking and comprehension skills. Daily interaction with host families and local residents strengthened practical communication abilities and increased confidence using Spanish in authentic settings. Participants also reported deeper cultural understanding, improved adaptability and broader global awareness.
The program highlighted the value of combining classroom instruction with international experiential learning, better preparing students for graduate study, global careers and culturally diverse workplaces. By building language proficiency and intercultural competence, this initiative helps develop globally prepared graduates who contribute to workforce readiness, international collaboration and community engagement, strengthening both local impact and global connectivity.
University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service – University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff | Project supported by USDA Capacity – Extension. Photo courtesy of University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
