How can international experiences transform your college journey and your future career?

In this episode of Scholar Scoop, Steve Loflin sits down with Dr. Lisa Bardill Moscaritolo, an expert in international education and longtime leader connected with Semester at Sea, to explore how studying and traveling abroad can shape students’ growth, confidence, and opportunities.

Together, they discuss why global experiences are one of the most powerful ways students can differentiate themselves academically and professionally. From semester-long programs to short-term travel, volunteer opportunities, and even gap years, Dr. Lisa shares practical insights on how students can find the right experience and why understanding your “why” is the key to choosing the right program.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why international experiences can set students apart in interviews and graduate applications
• How to decide between deep cultural immersion vs. broader “comparative” programs like Semester at Sea
• Why faculty are one of the most underused resources for study abroad opportunities
• How campus offices like Study Abroad and Student Affairs can help you unlock global experiences
• Why planning early can make international travel possible, especially for scholarships and course credits
• How gap years and global leadership programs can help students gain clarity about their future

Dr. Lisa also shares insights about the Student Leader Global Summit, where student leaders from around the world collaborate on global challenges like the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Whether you’re a college student considering study abroad, a high school student exploring gap year options, or a parent supporting a global-minded learner, this conversation highlights why international education can be a life-changing part of the college experience.