Every year, NAFSA brings together some of the most passionate and experienced voices in global education, but its impact stretches far beyond the conference halls. It’s also a chance to build deeper connections, put faces to names, and experience the institutions that shape international education firsthand.
One such opportunity unfolded at this year’s gathering in San Diego, when SAF representatives facilitated a special campus visit to the University of California San Diego (UC San Diego) for a group of visiting delegates from partner universities across Asia. The trip offered a rare, close-up look at the academic innovation, student experience, and international programming that define UC San Diego, a university SAF has partnered with since 2011.
Hosted by the university’s Global Initiatives team, the half-day program began with a light breakfast in UC San Diego’s Theatre District Conference Centre, followed by opening remarks from Vice Chancellors Dr. Alysson Satterlund (Student Affairs and Campus Life) and Dr. Corinne Peek Asa (Research and Innovation). Dr. Carlos Jensen, Associate Vice Chancellor for Educational Innovation, then offered insights into the university’s cutting-edge teaching practices and forward-thinking approach to learning.
A highlight of the visit was a presentation on non-degree programs – Language, Concurrent, and Academic – led by Lisa Kovacs, Academic Director of the English Language Institute within UC San Diego Extended Studies. These offerings have been central to SAF’s collaboration with UC San Diego since our partnership began, and the relationship has since grown to include customized, short-term programming developed specifically for SAF’s university partners.
Attendees also had the chance to learn more about the university’s study abroad and international engagement strategies through a session with Grace Fuller from the International Services and Engagement Office. She also continued the conversation over lunch, answering partner questions and offering context on student life and support services.
To round out the day, guests were treated to a glimpse of campus life, including a walk through the Stuart Collection, a celebrated series of site-specific public artworks, a stop at the campus bookstore, and a guided tour by a current student. The visit wrapped with a relaxed buffet lunch at the Ida and Cecil Green Faculty Club.
Special thanks go to Kara Walls, Event Manager for Global Initiatives, whose coordination and hospitality made the day possible.
As international collaboration continues to evolve, visits like these are a reminder of the value of shared experiences, in-person dialogue, and the ongoing commitment to providing transformative global opportunities for students.
To learn more about SAF’s partner universities and explore ways to get involved, reach out to an advisor today.
