The Office of the Provost launched a new website Feb. 11 that publicizes Vanderbilt’s impact beyond Nashville, with the aim of promoting, as well as increasing, the scope of its global presence.
As part of Provost Susan Wente’s broader strategic initiative to build the university’s international profile, GlobalVU is an online portal, through which both current and prospective members of the community can learn about Vanderbilt’s international influence. The website highlights this global-mindedness, noting innovative research, an alumni network that spans the globe, the growing international student population, study abroad, among other programs on and off campus that work to foster a global lens and perspective.
Featuring a breadth of resources, GlobalVU streamlines all information pertaining to this topic, and simplifies the process of accessing these materials and contacts so that students and faculty can most effectively realize their international pursuits.
Director of the Global Education Office (GEO) Arik Ohnstad anticipates that GlobalVU will positively impact their services and operations.
“I’m hopeful that this additional resource will help both current and prospective students to see the range of international learning opportunities available at Vanderbilt,” Ohnstad said. “Particularly, it will help to elucidate how students can use these experiences as a springboard toward their own goals.”
Ohnstad also noted the value in the website’s emphasis on global health and safety efforts, which supplements the GEO’s new advising services. These include individualized pre-departure health and wellness consultations, among other programs designed to support students in preparing for the international context.
Students also recognize the usefulness of this resource in terms of bringing to life and realistically executing their ambitions.
“I’m a singer/songwriter and would love to go on tour abroad,” first-year Sarah Steil said. “I want to design and cultivate my own type of experience, but I would also definitely rely on Vanderbilt support and resources to make that happen. Through this new website, I can see what possibilities are feasible, and get in touch with the necessary contacts to realize these aspirations.”
