Global Ambassador Program
The Global Ambassador Program selects students participating in international education programs to share their experience abroad through Texas Global's blog and social media channels throughout their time abroad.
Global Ambassadors can choose to be featured as a guest blogger on the UT Education Abroad blog, take over Texas Global's Instagram Stories for a day, or a combination of blogging and social media. Global Ambassadors who complete program requirements will receive a Certificate of Global Engagement.
The application for May Term 2026 is due March 15, 2026.
What Can You Do as a Global Ambassador?
By sharing your stories throughout your education abroad experience and encouraging others to study abroad, Global Ambassadors play an important role in helping to globalize UT Austin. What are some of the creative pieces you can share with Longhorn Nation about your time abroad?
- Take over Texas Global Education Abroad's Instagram Stories! Show us what your day looks like, from your classes to exploring the sights of your study abroad destination. Check out @texasglobalabroad’s Instagram Highlights for examples.
- Write a blog post for the Education Abroad Blog. Describe your first impressions of your new home, any culture shock you experience, what your classes are like or the latest adventure you went on with your classmates. Explore our blog for examples.
- Write a social port for Texas Global Education Abroad's Instagram. Tell us about your experience abroad, showing us your favorite moments.
Why be a Global Ambassador?
Inspire Other Longhorns to Explore the World
- Foster communication between students thinking of studying abroad and students currently studying abroad.
- Provide a forum for students to share their academic and intercultural experiences with staff and faculty in their departments, as well as friends, family, and prospective Longhorns.
- Equip study abroad candidates with insights into what to expect during their time overseas.
- Encourage reflection on the formative aspects of education abroad.
Expand Your Personal and Professional Horizons
- Reflect and document your time abroad.
- Keep friends and family back home informed of your thoughts and adventures.
- Prepare and practice for the many times you will need to write an essay or case statement.
- Build your resume for job interviews or graduate school.
Meet the Spring 2026 Global Ambassadors
Adia J Fland
Major: Psychology, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange with MICEFA Paris at Université Nanterre in Nanterre, France
I'm a rising senior from the North Dallas, Texas area. This spring I'm studying in Paris, and I'm so excited! I haven't had the opportunity to travel much internationally; I look forward to immersing myself in the French culture through this program while continuing my studies in psychology. I was drawn to this program because it allows students to connect with both the local culture and focus on academics. Through this experience, I aim to gain a global perspective not only in my studies, but also to grow as an individual while inspiring others to step out of their comfort zone!
Ana Agaton
Major: History, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Affiliate Program at AIFS Abroad: Global Education Center in Rome, Italy
I’m a junior history major, born and raised in Texas, and I’m excited to take my next big step by studying abroad in Rome, Italy this semester with AIFS. I’m especially excited to explore the Eternal City through its culture, architecture, and of course its history. Studying abroad has always been a dream of mine, and being part of a program tailored to my interest and major gives me the opportunity of a lifetime to step outside my comfort zone, explore what the world has to offer, and share those experiences with others, hopefully inspiring some along the way!
Andrew Galindo
Major: Economics, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at Universidad Pontificia Comillas in Madrid, Spain
I’m a junior economics major from Denton, Texas and I love to travel and explore new places! This spring, I’ll be studying abroad in Madrid, Spain, where I’m excited to practice my Spanish, meet new people, and experience everyday life in a new culture.
I was drawn to this program for the opportunity to fully immerse myself in Spanish culture and daily life, and I can't wait to share it!
Brooke Derdiger
Major: Advertising, Moody College of Communication
Program: Affiliate Program at API Semester: Business, Arts, Humanities, Italian Language and Culture at Lorenzo de’ Medici in Florence, Italy
I’m a junior majoring in advertising with a minor in business from Dallas, Texas. I love trying new things, collecting new experiences, and traveling, which made studying abroad feel like the perfect next adventure for me. This spring, I’ll be studying in Florence, Italy through the API affiliate program, where I’m excited to immerse myself in Italian culture while gaining a global perspective on business and creative strategy.
I was especially drawn to this program because of my love for Italian food, of course, along with Florence’s timeless beauty, artistic legacy, and vibrant culture. I’m looking forward to this opportunity to share my experience and hopefully inspire other UT students to take the leap and study abroad!
Dayanara Pacheco
Major: Kinesiology and Health, College of Education
Program: Exchange at University of Exeter in Exeter, England
I’m a kinesiology major with a minor in advanced mathematics from Houston, Texas, and I’ll be studying abroad at the University of Exeter in Devon, England. I’m excited for the opportunity to explore new places and immerse myself in a different culture, including visiting historic landmarks such as Big Ben during weekend travel. What excites me most about this program is the chance to live in the countryside, step away from city life, and connect more closely with nature while continuing my academic studies.
Emilia Villela
Major: Economics, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at Universidad Pontificia Comillas in Madrid, Spain
I’m a junior majoring in economics with a minor in global communications, originally from Mexico City, Mexico, and raised in The Woodlands, Texas. I’m incredibly excited to study abroad in Madrid because of my passion for exploring different cultures and learning through global experiences. With my Hispanic background, I look forward to fully immersing myself in Spanish culture and living in such a historically and culturally rich city. Spain’s close proximity to other European countries and Madrid’s role as a major travel hub, make this opportunity even more exciting, as I hope to explore other parts of Europe as well.
This program aligns perfectly with my major, minor, and personal passions, allowing me to take challenging courses such as economics of the European Union to better understand global economic systems. I will also be taking courses for my global communications minor that will provide me with valuable tools and strategies in an international context. Studying abroad has been a dream of mine since I first stepped foot on the Forty Acres, and I’m excited to represent a program and university that mean so much to me while sharing my experiences abroad.
Estefania Lightener
Major: Health and Society, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at University of Pompey Fabra in Barcelona, Spain
I'm a junior health and society major with a minor in health communications on the pre-PA tract. I’m from Pflugerville, Texas, which is 30 minutes outside of Austin. I’m excited to study abroad because I have never been to Europe and I want to be able to immerse myself within new cultures. I’m hoping to improve my Spanish, learn new things, and connect with people around the world. I was drawn to this program because of its location, professors, and all the amazing things the students had to say about it. I’m excited to study abroad and see all the things I can accomplish and achieve and the adventures I go on!
Gabrielle Tatum
Major: International Relations and Global Studies & Chinese Cultures and Languages, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at National Taiwan University in Taipei, Taiwan
I’m a junior international relations and global studies, alongside Chinese cultures and languages major. I’ve moved around the states, but spent most of my childhood in Houston, Texas. I started learning Mandarin Chinese in high school and fell in love with the culture. I’m very excited to have the opportunity to study in an immersive environment at National Taiwan University and enhance my Mandarin proficiency. I can't wait to share my journey with all our fellow longhorns!
Haru Ibuka
Major: Nutrition, College of Natural Sciences
Program: Exchange at Yonsei University in Seoul, South Korea
I'm a second year from Irving, Texas, studying nutrition with a minor in global management. Studying abroad has always been one of the things I wanted to accomplish during my time at UT Austin. I'm very excited to participate in this semester-long exchange program at Yonsei University! In my time abroad, I hope to meet new people, learn their language, eat good food, and immerse myself in opportunities that can’t be experienced anywhere else!
Isabella Carrascal
Major: Government, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at Queen Mary University in London, England
I’m a third-year government student minoring in sociology, and rhetoric and writing, with a certificate in public policy. I’m from Houston, Texas, with roots in Colombia and Venezuela. I have a deep love for Texas and a huge passion for politics, but I’m leaving it all behind for a semester because I believe we learn far more from each other than from guessing blindly. I was drawn to London for its deep history, the way its diverse, immigrant communities shape everyday life, and how those lessons can be brought back home. I’m incredibly excited to go abroad, and to take you all along with me!
Isabella Ventura
Major: Finance, McCombs School of Business & Plan II Honors, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at Universidad Pontificia Comillas in Madrid, Spain
I’m a junior pursuing a dual degree in finance and plan II honors, and I’ll be participating in the McCombs exchange program at Universidad Pontificia Comillas in Madrid. As a native Houstonian, I’m excited to continue exploring beyond Texas in Spain, where I can merge my interests in Hispanic culture and history with the global business space. I’m especially looking forward to late dinners, dancing to good music, practicing a different form of Spanish, and connecting with diverse groups of people. I can’t wait to share my experiences, perspectives, and journey with the UT community!
Justin Todd
Major: Radio-Television-Film, Moody College of Communication
Program: Exchange at Iwate University in Morioka, Japan
I'm a third-year radio-television-film and Japanese double major from Chattanooga, Tennessee. I'm super excited to be studying abroad at Iwate University in Morioka, Japan! I chose Morioka for a smaller town feel and the chance to experience a lesser traveled corner of the country whose language I study. Hook ’em!
Kaylee David
Major: Radio-Television-Film, Moody College of Communication
Program: Exchange at University of Edinburgh in Edinburgh, Scotland
I’m from Cypress, Texas and I’m a junior radio-television-film major at UT. I’ll be spending the spring semester at the University of Edinburgh in Edinburgh, Scotland. I’m very excited to immerse myself in a new culture, as well as gain a new global perspective! I can’t wait to engage with the city’s arts scene and rich history.
Landry Knowles
Major: International Relations and Global Studies, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Affiliate Program at IES Abroad: Liberal Arts and Business Trackin Barcelona, Spain
I’m a sophomore from Longview, Texas, studying international relations. I will be traveling to Barcelona, Spain for Spring 2026! I’ll be participating in a liberal arts and business track, with classes centered around the culture in Barcelona. I ardently believe learning about the diverse world around us is how we grow as humans and expand our intellectual capabilities. I love experiencing new things, therefore, I’m very excited to explore Spain and become more attune to different cultures, people, and places.
Lucy McElmurry
Major: Psychology, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Affiliate Program at AIFS Abroad: Global Education Center in Florence, Italy
I’m a sophomore majoring in psychology with a minor in business, and I was born and raised here in Austin! Studying abroad in Florence this spring through the AIFS Global Education Center feels like a dream come true. I’m beyond excited to fully immerse myself in the city—learning from its rich history and culture, meeting new people, and growing both academically and personally along the way.
Mariana Kadirvel
Major: Government, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at Universidad de Navarra in Pamplona, Spain
A native Austinite with a love for adventure, I’m thrilled to discover Spain this upcoming Spring. I was drawn to study in Pamplona in order to immerse myself in the Spanish language, experience a religion-infused university, relish in European artistry, and much more. As someone with Spanish heritage, I anticipate learning more about this unexplored part of myself. Most of all, I’m excited to learn how God will use this experience to grow my love for Him and the different peoples He has created.
Matthew Olivera
Major: Human Biology, College of Natural Sciences
Program: Exchange at the University of Edinburgh in Edinburgh, Scotland
I’m a senior from Encinal, Texas, graduating with a major in human biology. This spring, I will be studying at the College of Science and Engineering and the College of Medicine at the University of Edinburgh. I can’t wait to explore the aesthetic Gothic castles, the beautiful Scottish countryside, and everything else Europe has to offer!
I chose this program for its academic flexibility and the opportunity to build lasting global connections. My goal is to inspire students who think they may have missed their window to go abroad—it’s never too late! Hook ’em!
Maximo Mendoza
Major: Philosophy, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at the University of Oxford in Oxford, England
I'm a pre-law senior majoring in philosophy with a minor in government. I was born in El Paso, Texas, but grew up in Mexico City. This spring, I'll be studying at the University of Oxford, Hertford College. As a philosophy major, Oxford is the place to be at. I was drawn to this program for its academic rigor and distinctive tutorial system. I'll be taking tutorials in medieval philosophy (Aquinas) and post-Kantian philosophy. I'm excited to study at such a prestigious and historic institution and to share this journey with you all!
Meadow Votis
Major: Political Communication, Moody College of Communication
Program: College Year in Athens, Greece
I’m a political communications major at UT Austin and I'm from Houston, Texas. I’m thrilled to be studying abroad in Spring 2026 in Athens, Greece and immersing myself in a new culture while continuing my academic journey. I was drawn to this program because of its unique academic offerings and the opportunity to gain a global perspective within my field of study. I’m excited to share my experiences abroad and connect them back to the UT community as a Global Ambassador.
Minjoo Yeo
Major: Sociology, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at Korea University in Seoul, South Korea
I’m a senior majoring in sociology, minoring in social science. I was raised in both Korea and the U.S., so I've always been fascinated about how culture, identity, and societal systems affect day to day life. Studying abroad at Korea University is particularly significant to me because it enables me to pursue my academic interests in a global setting while reestablishing a connection with an environment that has profoundly impacted my sense of self.
Natalie Ancira
Major: Economics, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at Universidad Pontificia Comillas in Madrid, Spain
I’m a third-year economics major from Poteet, Texas, and I’m beyond excited to study abroad in Madrid, Spain. I'm a first-generation college student, and this will be my first time traveling outside of the United States, making this experience especially meaningful to me. I chose this exchange program because I want to fully immerse myself in Spain's culture, history, and vibrant atmosphere. I’m especially excited to practice my Spanish through classes and everyday interactions while living in Madrid. I’m excited to step outside my comfort zone, make new memories, and grow both personally and academically. I hope to inspire other Longhorns, and I can’t wait to share this journey and all the new experiences that come with it!
Natalie Peyton Floyd
Major: International Relations and Global Studies, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Affiliate Program at AIFS Abroad: Global Education Center in Florence, Italy
I’m from North Richland Hills, Texas and I’m so thrilled to be studying abroad with AIFS in Florence, Italy. My father is an art teacher at my local high school and has always told me stories and pushed me to be well versed in the arts. Although it is up for debate whether he succeeded, my curiosity for art has always been there. Florence is the cradle of the Renaissance, and I know it will have so much to offer me!
Nicholas Nguyen
Major: Computer Science, College of Natural Sciences
Program: Exchange at Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan
I’m a junior computer science major from Houston, Texas, pursuing a certificate in Japanese, and this spring I’ll be studying abroad in Tokyo, Japan. At Waseda University, I look forward to immersing myself in the language and culture through coursework and everyday interactions beyond the classroom. I’m excited to bring these experiences back through my academic work and student involvement, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share this journey as a Global Ambassador!
Olivia Jacoby
Major: Communication and Leadership, Moody College of Communication
Program: Affiliate Program at API Abroad in Florence, Italy
I’m a junior at UT Austin in the Moody Honors Program, studying communication and leadership with a minor in professional sales and business development. I’m originally from Southlake, Texas, and will be studying abroad in Florence, Italy through the API program this spring. I was drawn to this experience for its immersive approach to culture, storytelling, and global leadership, and I’m excited to explore how communication and connection transcend borders. I look forward to sharing my journey with the Longhorn community, and you’re welcome to follow along on Instagram as I document life abroad. Hook ’em!
Rayna De Jesus
Major: Computer Science, College of Natural Science
Program: Exchange at the University of Edinburgh in Edinburgh, Scotland
I’m a junior majoring in computer science with a certificate in nonprofits and social entrepreneurship from Cypress, Texas. This spring, I’m studying in Scotland at the University of Edinburgh. As my first experience overseas, I’m excited to immerse myself in new cultures, explore Scotland and its captivating architecture, and gain global perspectives through Edinburgh’s renowned informatics program. I’m grateful for this opportunity and eager to share my experiences with fellow Longhorns!
Sofia Rasita Johansson
Major: International Relations and Global Studies, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan
I’m a second-year international relations andglobal studies major originally from Stockholm, Sweden and locally from Frisco, Texas. This spring, I’ll be studying at Waseda University in Tokyo, Japan, where I hope to not only achieve better Japanese proficiency, but also to immerse myself in a new culture.
I chose this program because of Waseda’s stature as a leading research university, not too different from our very own UT. Located in the heart of Tokyo, I hope to get lost in adventure and find new parts of myself, both academically and personally, through this experience. I’m excited to explore the Tokyo wards, subcultures and food, and to learn about foreign affairs and Japanese politics from a new perspective.
Viviana Orozco
Major: International Relations and Global Studies, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at University College London in London, England
I’m an international relations and global studies major from El Paso, Texas! I’m studying abroad at University College London in London, England, and I’m eager to share my journey to other prospective study abroad students. I’m excited to be studying abroad because I come from a city that features an insane melting pot, with touches of Mexican culture infiltrating Texas, and I want to explore other phenomena like this in one of the biggest culture hubs in the world. This program drew me in because of the campus location in central London, and the rigorous classes that feature topics related to culture diffusion and migration. I’m so happy to be given the opportunity to catalogue my experience as an abroad student to share with others, and I look forward to the year ahead.
Ximena Sanchez
Major: Psychology, College of Liberal Arts
Program: Exchange at University of New South Wales in Sydney, Australia
I’m a psychology major from Panama City, Panama, and I’m excited to study abroad in Sydney, Australia. I was drawn to this program because of Sydney’s global culture, strong academic environment, and emphasis on international perspectives, which align closely with my interests in psychology, communication, and personal growth.
Some Words of Wisdom
As a Global Ambassador, you represent Texas Global, The University of Texas at Austin, and, by extension, Texas and the United States. With this responsibility comes the expectation that your content reflects integrity and respect. Please avoid posting anything illegal, obscene, defamatory, threatening, infringing on intellectual property, violating privacy, or otherwise harmful or offensive. Do not use the Texas Global brand to endorse or promote products, causes, opinions, or political candidates. You must also follow the University Code of Conduct and the Student Honor Code.
Remember, blogging and social media are public platforms. Once something is posted online, it can remain accessible indefinitely, even if deleted from the original site. For this reason, never share a link without reviewing it first, and always consider whether it’s something you want permanently tied to you. As a Global Ambassador, your posts reflect UT Austin and its study abroad programs.
If you’re ever uncertain about what’s appropriate to share, pause and ask before posting. A good rule of thumb: don’t publish anything you wouldn’t want your family, professors, or future employers to see. Think before you post—you are representing UT Austin to the world.
Check out the Education Abroad Blog to see what's new.
Tips for Recording Video
Videos are a great way to document and share your time abroad as a Global Ambassador. Here are some tips and tricks to recording high-quality videos.Contact Us
Email globalambassadors@austin.utexas.edu for more information.