BCTC Students Expand Their Horizons Through Summer Study Abroad Programs
Published on Jul 24, 2025
Lexington, KY – This summer, students from Bluegrass Community and Technical College (BCTC) broadened
their academic and cultural perspectives through immersive study abroad experiences
in Costa Rica, Taiwan, and Portugal. These opportunities were made possible through
BCTC Global Learning, with guidance from Gilman Advisor Nathan Smith and Faculty Study
Abroad Advisor Danni Quintos.
BCTC students studied with the Kentucky Institute for International Studies (KIIS) in Costa Rica and Taiwan, and with CIEE in Portugal earning academic credit while exploring new cultures.
“This summer I went to Costa Rica as a part of the KIIS study abroad program,” said BCTC student Vanesa. “I had the pleasure of taking classes associated with my major and connecting with people from not only Costa Rica, but fellow students from KY who by the end became like a family to me. I loved the experience and hope to go abroad again soon!”
Hudson, who studied in Portugal and received the prestigious Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, added, “Exploring a new culture at this depth has changed how I think about daily life and global perspectives. Seeing all the history and societal differences between Portugal and the U.S. has led me to think differently about how we can live day to day.”
In addition to travel, BCTC Global Learning supported 25 students through the Institute of International Education’s Passport Project, helping them prepare for future international experiences.
“BCTC is committed to removing barriers to global education,” said Erin Howard, Associate Dean of Global Learning. “Our goal is to make study abroad accessible to all students, regardless of program or background. These experiences help students gain hands-on learning and skills that prepare them for a global workforce. Last summer, BCTC faculty and staff helped connect over 50 students to career-specific programs in four different countries."
The impact of BCTC Global Learning is reflected in its growth since 2022:
- 77 students have participated in nine global learning programs.
- First-year participants have seen a 95% retention rate.
- Many students have taken on leadership roles in organizations like Phi Theta Kappa and STEM-focused groups.
- BCTC students have presented at global platforms including the United Nations Humanitarian Affairs University Scholars Leadership Symposium in Thailand.
“Global learning transforms lives,” said Dr. Greg Feeney, BCTC President/CEO. “At BCTC, we believe that every student should have the opportunity to explore the world and bring that knowledge back to enrich their communities and careers. These study abroad experiences are a testament to our mission to deliver innovative and high-impact learning,” said Feeney.
BCTC continues to invest in expanding access to global education to prepare students to thrive in an interconnected world.
To learn more about BCTC Study Aboard programs contact:
Erin Howard, Associate Dean for Global Learning
Email: erin.howard@kctcs.edu
Phone: 859.246.6436
