Department of Gerontology

Department of Gerontology Embraces International Program

Students walking on campus

"International opportunities are an ideal way to develop a well-rounded curriculum," said Mario Garrett, chair of the Department of Gerontology. "We are concentrating on ways to connect students with international internships through the United Nations and in other countries."

In fact, international experiences are one of Garrett's top priorities for the department. Additionally, an international experience is becoming one of the top priorities for SDSU students, as well. With the guidance of Provost Nancy Marlin, SDSU is looking to incorporate international study for all students. The College of Health and Human Services will be the first college at SDSU to pave the way for this innovative take on education. In 2009, the college will undergo an experiment which will lead, it is hoped, to all of its students participating in an international experience in nearby Mexico or as far as the world will take them.

The College of Health and Human Services takes a creative approach to an international experience. Instead of spending a standard semester abroad, they will have the opportunity to spend their spring break exploring a country's culture. Though the stay may be as brief as one week, students will receive course credit toward their degree.

Studies show that SDSU students are already moving towards exploring international education. In December 2007, among all public universities with high research activity, SDSU was ranked number two in the nation and number one in California for students studying abroad. These data can be found in the 2007 report, Open Doors, released by the Institute for International Education.

What's more, SDSU boasts more than 190 programs in 44 different countries and has 12 programs and majors that require studying abroad, such as international business, international security and conflict resolution, hospitality tourism and management and the university honors program.

"I have worked with the United Nations implementing educational courses all over the world, including China and Africa, and can say first-hand that nothing can compare to international experiences to gain a broader education on techniques and methods that improve the lives of older adults. It will certainly enhance the academic environment in our department and contribute to a meaningful personal experience, as well" said Garrett.

Having an intense cultural immersion will help to refine the Department of Gerontology students even more and more will serve to embrace the cross-cultural environment that SDSU promotes. Creating this cultural experience makes sense when looking at our increasingly diverse international community.





http://gero.sdsu.edu