Campaign will help more students have study abroad experiences

Kobe Wright enjoyed studying in Japan for a semester so much, he's trying to go back to teach English.

Wright, who graduated in April with a bachelor's degree in film and video production, spent the winter 2023 semester studying in Hikone through the Japan Center for Michigan Universities (JCMU) program. He said the immersion into Japanese culture only fueled his passion for the country and its people, food, language and history.

"Living as a student there allowed me to form my own connection to Japan and reshape my perspective on the world and my life," Wright said. "Through daily experiences, I became more immersed in Japanese society and gained new, life-changing relationships."

Wright earned several scholarships, including the Freeman-Asia award from the Institute of International Education and the GVSU Mark A & Elizabeth C. Murray Scholarship, which helped offset expenses. After applying to JCMU, Wright received a $3,000 scholarship from the Japan Business Society of Detroit Foundation.

"I’m immensely grateful for the generosity of these donors, as it made going to Japan a much more attainable goal for me," Wright said, adding his thanks to the Office of Fellowships staff for their help in reviewing his Freeman-Asia application.

Wright plans to work again with Brenda Tooley, associate director for the Center for Undergraduate Scholar Engagement, on an application to the JET Program, which provides opportunities for young professionals to teach English in Japan.

Study abroad campaign

Now through July 25, Grand Valley is hosting a crowdfunding campaign to help more students have transformative study abroad experiences. Gifts of any amount made to the GVSU Study Abroad Sprint will contribute to the campaign's goal of 100 donors and directly support study abroad scholarships and programs.

Thanks to a generous gift from an alumni donor, $2 for every $1 donated to the First Generation Study Abroad Fund will be matched, up to $8,000.