Far Eastern University (FEU), through its International Relations Office (IRO), reinforced its dedication to international collaboration by hosting a three-week Study Abroad Program of De Anza College, USA. Its aim was to introduce the Philippines’ enriching cultural and educational experiences to students from outside the country, thus bridging global gaps and fostering international understanding.

FEU-IRO hosted 15 students and 2 faculty members from the US college to experience life in the Philippines through guided cultural tours, diverse lectures, and community engagement activities.

“We are thrilled to host De Anza College students in our transformative study abroad program. This partnership broadens perspectives and fosters meaningful connections between our institutions. By sharing Philippine culture with international students, we encourage them to enhance their global awareness while promoting our rich heritage,” said IRO Director Driselle Pajuyo.

With the advent of globalization, there is increasing interest among students worldwide to study abroad. In 2023, there was a 10.2% increase in international student-enrollment in the Philippines.

Cross-cultural understanding through exchange programs

FEU’s extensive network of global partnerships, now including 43 universities, indicate its commitment to enhancing education and promoting global citizenship. The Study Abroad Program with De Anza College exemplified this commitment by offering international students valuable cultural experiences and academic enrichment.

During the first day, participants of the exchange program were given a guided tour of the FEU Manila campus, the country’s largest Art Deco complex and a recognized National Cultural Treasure by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts.

As part of their community engagement activities, the students visited the Gawad Kalinga headquarters, attended lectures on Philippine indigenous peoples, and met with Aeta communities in Pampanga. FEU planned these activities with the intention of deepening the US students’ understanding and appreciation of Philippine communities, to help enhance cross-cultural knowledge and skills essential in a globalized world.

Karen Wang, an Asian-American Studies delegate, expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am deeply grateful for the welcoming community at FEU, who taught me that rather than being a passive observer, I could become part of a wider network of social relations, commitments, and responsibilities.”

Another delegate, Sarah Gibbs, said, “The most rewarding experience was exploring my Filipino identity and meeting other Filipinos,” adding, “I’ve never felt so loved and cared for by a group of strangers, who soon became friends.”

FEU’s international study initiatives are in line with the Commission on Higher Education’s internationalization strategy that aims to integrate the Philippines into the global academic community.^[1] By fostering partnerships with international institutions, FEU contributes to the promotion of sustainable development and international solidarity.

^[1]https://thepienews.com/philippines/?fbclid=IwY2xjawErsV9leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHU7cuDz0bLEN8R0WS3TGFcQlkOO1Xg6taFbM50sBkFnKneAXIccsxKLqaw_aem_UPcLsa3Kl89dShipqzUOSw