Global Ambassador Program

Major: Biology, College of Natural Sciences and French Studies, College of Liberal Arts  

Program: Evolution: An International and Cultural Perspective Faculty-Led Program in Seville, Spain 

I'm a rising junior majoring in biology and French studies on the pre-med track from Evansville, Indiana. During this first summer term, I’m studying evolution and Spanish culture in Seville, Spain. I've always dreamed of studying abroad but have frequently heard that it can put pre-medical students behind the traditional four-year schedule. However, contrary to these discouraging sentiments, this summer program allows me to fulfill my dream of studying abroad while also staying on top of my degree and career goals. The program also incentivized me to learn as much Spanish as possible in a few months — a language I hope to hone while abroad and continue to improve upon throughout my personal and professional life. 

Major: Radio-Television-Film, Moody College of Communication  

Program: Würzburg Summer Faculty-Led Program in Würzburg, Germany 

I was born and raised in Austin, and I’m entering my third year studying radio-television-film at UT Austin! I chose this program because it combined both the May semester and the summer semester, and it seemed like the absolute best opportunity to improve my German, while also seeing more of the world. Before this trip, I had never left the country, so it’s been wonderful being able to explore life outside of the United States. 

Major: Psychology, College of Liberal Arts 

Program:  Language and Culture Faculty-Led Program in Santander, Spain 

I'm a sophomore psychology major, pursuing a minor in Spanish and certification through UTeach Liberal Arts. I'm from Dripping Springs, Texas and will be studying Spanish language and culture in Santander, Spain this summer. I’m incredibly excited to share my experiences with language learning and cultural immersion while living with a homestay family abroad. Originally, I was drawn to this particular programbecause it will push me to improve my Spanish skills, helping me connect with my Spanish-speaking relatives, the Texan community, as well as future students and clients. 

Major: English and History, College of Liberal Arts 

Program: Oxford Summer Faculty-Led Program in Oxford, England 

I’m an English honors and history major at UT Austin. Originally from Austin, Texas, I’m excited to study abroad at Wadham College through the Oxford summer program. As someone interested in literature, history, archives, and cultural storytelling, I was drawn to Oxford's rich academic traditions and literary history. I look forward to experiencing a new educational environment, exploring the city’s libraries and museums, and sharing my experiences with the Longhorn community throughout the summer. 

Major: Design, College of Fine Arts  

Program: DIS Abroad Affiliate Program in Scandinavia: Data Visualization in Stockholm, Sweden and Graphic Design in Copenhagen, Denmark 

As a design major from the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, I study how stories live inside systems—spaces, objects, and everyday design choices that quietly shape how we see ourselves and each other. I focus on states of being, using writing, visual media, and cultural research to build experiences that translate observation into meaning. I’m interested in making work that helps people notice what usually goes unseen on a micro and macro level and that's why I'm studying abroad. 

Major: Biology, College of Natural Sciences 

Program: Evolution: An International and Cultural Perspective Faculty-Led Program in Seville, Spain  

I’m a biology major on the pre-veterinary track, and I’m from Bedford, Texas. I’m beyond excited to study abroad so I can explore a brand-new country and meet new people, within the program as well as locals. I was especially attracted to this program because I’ve been learning Spanish since first grade and wanted an opportunity for real world practice and to experience Spanish culture firsthand.  

Braedann Adams  

Major: International Relations & Global Studies, College of Liberal Arts 

Program: Global Challenges in Europe Faculty-Led Program in Paris, France 

Major: Finance and Business, McCombs School of Business 

Program: Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) Exchange Program in Hong Kong, China 

I'm an incoming sophomore majoring in Finance with a minor in International Business, originally from San Antonio, Texas. This summer, I'm studying at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, where I'm taking Mandarin Chinese and Business, Innovation, and Technology in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area. I chose to study abroad to challenge my thinking and broaden my perspective, and Hong Kong felt like the perfect place to do that. As a major finance hub in the APAC region, it offers a global perspective on finance, innovation and real estate that I couldn't pass up. The dim sum and oceanside hiking trails were definitely a bonus too! 

Major: Neuroscience, College of Natural Sciences  

Program: Language and Culture Faculty-Led Program in Santander, Spain  

I’m an upcoming sophomore neuroscience major and Spanish minor from Dallas, Texas. This summer I’ll be studying abroad for five weeks in Santander, Spain through the language and culture program with the University of Cantabria. I’m especially excited to live with a host family, immerse myself in Spanish culture, and complete my Spanish for medical professions certificate. As a pre-med student, I look forward to strengthening my language skills and gaining a deeper understanding of the perspectives and experiences that shape healthcare across cultures. I can’t wait to share my journey with fellow Longhorns as a Global Ambassador! 

Major: Nursing, School of Nursing 

Program: Engaging Global Health Faculty-Led Program in Heredia, Costa Rica 

I'm from Richmond, Texas and I’m a junior nursing major studying in Costa Rica this summer. I’m super excited about this opportunity to study abroad because it will be my first time visiting Costa Rica and traveling out of the country on my own. I chose this particular program because, as someone pursuing a career in healthcare, learning Spanish is incredibly important. I’ve tried learning on my own before, but nothing truly stuck, so I knew the best way to learn would be through full immersion in the culture and community. I’m so excited to document and share this journey with all of you! 

Major: Kinesiology & Health Education, College of Education 

Program: Language and Culture Faculty-Led Program in Santander, Spain 

I’m a first-generation student with a major in Kinesiology Applied Movement Science from Houston Texas. This summer I’ll be attending the language and culture program in Santander, Spain. I joined this specific program because I plan on getting my certification in Spanish for medical professions so that in the future as a healthcare provider, I can provide my Spanish speaking patients with the best care possible. Overall, I'm excited to work on my Spanish and immerse myself in a new culture. 

Major: Sociology and History, College of Liberal Arts 

Program: Language and Culture Faculty-Led Program in Santander, Spain 

I'm an upcoming senior studying sociology with a minor in history. As someone with a love for cultures, cuisines, and curiosity, I was drawn to the opportunity to live and study in Santander. Not only is this region known for its rich history, it's also the perfect place to better my Spanish skills, both in and out of the classroom. Can't wait to share some of my experiences with you all! 

Major:  International Relations & Global Studies and Rhetoric & Writing, College of Liberal Arts 

Program: Global Career Launch Internships at Asociación Biodiversidad Ecuador, ACUS Chocó Andino Sur, and Mindo Ananaw Nature Hostel in Mindo, Ecuador 

I’m a senior from Mansfield, Texas studying international relations & global studies and rhetoric with a minor in Spanish. After a study abroad last summer in Spain, I was hooked on the feeling of exploring the unfamiliar. This summer, the Global Career Launch program in Ecuador offered an opportunity to put my Spanish skills to use while also gaining hands-on internship experience with Asociación BiodiversidadEcuador. I’m extremely excited to bond with my host family and other students, learn about sustainable ecotourism, and experience the beauty and culture of Ecuador.  

Lauren Perez  

Major: Economics and International Relations & Global Studies, College of Liberal Arts 

Program: Language and Culture Faculty-Led Program in Santander, Spain 

I’m a third-year UT Austin student studying economics and international relations. I’m originally from the Rio Grande Valley, and traveling has always been an aspiration of mine. This summer, I'm excited to continue improving my Spanish while studying abroad in Santander, Spain. Coming from a small Texas town, the opportunity to study abroad represents an exciting step outside of my comfort zone and a chance to broaden my understanding of different cultures and communities. I look forward to gaining new perspectives that will cultivate growth both personally and academically. I’m excited to share my journey and help others feel more confident about studying abroad! 

Lucien Dans  

Major: International Relations & Global Studies, College of Liberal Arts 

Program: Language and Culture Faculty-Led Program in Santander, Spain 

I’m a senior International Relations and Global Studies major from the Houston area with a minor in international business and a certificate in business Spanish. This summer, I’ll be studying abroad through the Santander, Spain program where I’ll take advanced Spanish courses, live with a local host family, and immerse myself in Spanish culture. My interests lie in global business and international trade which have made language learning an important part of my educational experience. I was drawn to the Santander program because it combines language immersion with the opportunity to study in a city that plays a critical role in northern Spain’s maritime trade and logistics operations, allowing me to gain firsthand insights that will directly support my future career in international business. As a Global Ambassador, I look forward to sharing my experiences in Spain and offering fellow Longhorn’s insight into the study abroad experience. 

Luke Gibson  

Major: Nursing, School of Nursing 

Program: Engaging Global Health Faculty-Led Program in Heredia, Costa Rica 

I'm a third-year nursing major with a certificate in food and society from Houston, Texas. Studying abroad has been a goal of mine for several years, and I'm excited to make it a reality this summer in Costa Rica! I’ll be participating in the engaging global health in Costa Rica program because I have a deep interest in public health and also want to improve my Spanish language skills. I'm looking forward to sharing my experiences abroad with the Longhorn community! 

Madeline Terry  

Major: Journalism, Moody College of Communication and Sustainability Studies, College of Liberal Arts 

Program: SIT: Sustainability and Environmental Justice Affiliate Program in Lisbon, Portugal  

I’m a rising junior from East Texas, double majoring in journalism and sustainability studies. This summer I’m studying sustainability and environmental justice in Lisbon, where I’ll be working on a personal project and podcast alongside my peers! I’m most excited to explore Portugal’s beautiful nature and tour environmental sites with my group. I can’t wait to document and share my experience with all of you!  

Michael McKenny  

Major: Biomedical Engineering, Cockrell School of Engineering 

Program: Engineering Dynamics and Industry Faculty-Led Program in Barcelona, Spain 

I'm a junior biomedical engineering student from The Woodlands, Texas, and this summer I'll be studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain through the engineering dynamics and industry program. As part of the program, I'll be taking a course on engineering dynamics while completing a part-time internship with a company in Barcelona. I previously studied abroad as an exchange student in Seville, Spain and lived with a host family—an experience that sparked my love for cultural immersion and international learning. I'm excited to return to Spain, experience life and work in Barcelona, and share my journey with fellow Longhorns as a Global Ambassador. 

Nicole Morazan  

Major: International Relations & Global Studies, College of Liberal Arts  

Program: AIFS Affiliate Program in Barcelona, Spain 

I’m a rising junior at UT Austin, majoring in international relations & global studies and studying business Spanish. I was born and raised in Nicaragua, and being able to participate in this program abroad makes me feel deeply grateful for the opportunity to continue growing, learning, and pursuing my dreams in new places. This June, I began my legal internship with Klev & Vera International Law Firm in Barcelona, Spain, where I will be assisting the firm’s lawyers and supporting clients in legal and immigration-related matters. Through this experience, I hope to grow personally, academically, and professionally while gaining a deeper understanding of international legal practice, as I plan to attend law school after completing my bachelor’s degree. I’m also excited to explore Spain, learn from its culture and people, and carry my Longhorn pride with me throughout this journey. 

Major: Nursing, School of Nursing 

Program: Engaging Global Health Faculty-Led Program in Heredia, Costa Rica 

Rebecca Hong  

Major: Nursing, School of Nursing 

Program: Engaging Global Health Faculty-Led Program in Heredia, Costa Rica 

I’m an incoming J2 nursing student and I’m very excited to study abroad in Costa Rica this summer! I believe that healthcare is a fundamental human right, and I’m passionate about improving access to quality care for all around the world. During this program, I’ll be taking a course on global health and Spanish for healthcare professionals. I look forward to learning about different healthcare systems while strengthening my communication abilities. I’m committed to applying my experiences to my future nursing practice and growing as an individual! 

Regan Hill  

Major: Neuroscience, College of Natural Sciences 

Program: Yonsei University Exchange Program in Seoul, South Korea 

I’m an incoming senior majoring in neuroscience with minors in Korean and social and behavioral sciences. I was born and raised in Austin, Texas, so I'm very excited to experience school outside of Austin! This summer, I’m traveling abroad to Seoul, South Korea, to finish my two minors. I’ve been learning Korean since high school, so getting the opportunity to actually travel to Seoul and experience the culture has been a dream of mine for a long time. I can't wait to attend such a prestigious school, interact with the locals, and eat delicious food! 

Rylie Lockerman  

Major: Journalism, Moody College of Communication 

Program: IES: Arts, Culture, and Creativity on the French Riviera Affiliate Program in Nice, France 

I'm a rising junior majoring in journalism and minoring in film. I’ve lived in Austin, Texas my whole life, so I’m very excited for the experiences that living in a new temporary home in Nice, France will bring me. In this six-week program, I’ll be studying photography and creative writing. I have a passion for storytelling through both words and visuals, and I can't wait to expand these interests through my studies here! 

Samantha Ho  

Major: Special Education, College of Education and Plan II Honors, College of Liberal Arts 

Program: Exploring UK Education Faculty-Led Program in Oxford, England 

I'm a rising senior from Houston, Texas, majoring in special education and plan II honors. I’m ecstatic to be studying abroad in Oxford, England this summer! I’ll be learning about how race and class affect educational experiences and outcomes, which will both inform my future career as a special education public school teacher, and also help me prepare for my plan II thesis. Two summers ago, I studied abroad in Santander, Spain and had the adventure of a lifetime. Can't wait to do it again! 

Samantha Natividad  

Major: Journalism, Moody College of Communication 

Program: London Criminals and Correspondents: True Crime Podcasts: How Reporters Protect Their Mental Health Faculty-Led Program in London, England 

I’m a senior journalism major and global communications minor from Plano, Texas with a lifelong love for books, food, and adventure. I’ve always been fascinated by stories and exploring the world since I was young, so I’m excited to start living out my dream by studying abroad this summer in London for Moody College’s criminals and correspondence program. I can’t wait to not only learn more about the rich history and media that make the city the global hub it is today, but also learn more about myself, journalist, and storyteller. 

Victoria Acevedo  

Major: Speech, Language, & Hearing Sciences, Moody College of Communication 

Program: Language and Culture Faculty-Led Program in Santander, Spain 

I’m an incoming junior from Houston, Texas. I’m currently studying speech, language, & hearing sciences with a certificate in Spanish for medical professions. I grew up around a Spanish speaking family, but never fully learned the language myself. I was drawn to the Santander language and culture program because of my desire to improve my Spanish fluency and the ability to immerse myself in the Spanish culture. This program will aid me in my goal of becoming a bilingual speech-language pathologist, so that I may provide Spanish speakers with quality therapy in their native language and help them to regain the ability to communicate with their loved ones!