Empowering global citizens through education

Lynn University remains focused on providing a global and personalized education that enables students to realize their potential. Through the support of Lynn’s International Programs and Services, students experience an intercultural understanding of nations, languages and customs while earning college credits, increasing job opportunities and having fun in the process.

Faculty-led trips offer students a personalized approach to learning as professors lead multiple excursions, linking practical coursework to the real world. When our students take the leap to immerse themselves in foreign cultures through study abroad programs, they unlock their potential to serve as global citizens in an ever-changing world.

"The best classrooms aren't always classrooms," said Mark Luttio, adjunct professor and Japan study abroad extraordinaire at Lynn University. Nearly every summer since 2011, Luttio introduces Tokyo, Japan to a group of future leaders for the learning adventure of a lifetime.

Professor Luttio, a native of Japan, takes the experience abroad very seriously. "This is a time for students to grow, learn and push themselves out of their comfort zones,” said Luttio. His traveling strategy draws students to various places, immersing them directly into Japanese culture. Activities include pottery-making classes, traditional Kyoto Tea House trips and more. Along the way, students write reflective essays about their transformative experiences.

Liam Turley, class of 2024, attended the trip while pursuing an entrepreneurship major at Lynn. Turley correlates the benefits from his experience in Japan to his life and studies. "Being exposed to the Japanese work ethic and business practices influenced my innovative thinking positively. Witnessing their emphasis on discipline, innovation and efficiency has ignited a passion within me to apply these standards to everything I do."

Luttio notes that students also display significantly more confidence and cultural sensitivity by the end of the trip. "At Lynn, we aim to create global, culturally sensitive leaders," said Luttio. "Studying abroad is the best way for students to develop these important skills while having an adventure that will stay with them forever."

Luttio consistently maintains a Lynn alumni group specific for students who took the journey to Japan with Lynn. The group is a place where fellow Fighting Knights can share memories and updates with their peers. For alumnus Cameron Barr '22, the adventure changed him and his perspective on life immensely. "Being ingrained in the Japanese way of life forces you to adapt for the better," said Barr. "Having Dr. Luttio as a guide helped us understand why the Japanese work so well as a society. I learned valuable lessons and made friends and memories that will last a lifetime."

Between cooking classes, flamenco shows, tapas and more, students gained new perspectives and learned how to apply their new skills toward their future careers. Professor Jeanette Francis teaches Lynn’s global management course abroad in Seville, Spain, while educating Lynn students on cultural differences, social awareness and more. During the trip, the group visited the Port of Seville, Las Tres Culturas—a foundation that promotes mutual understanding for Mediterranean cultures, the archives of the Indies, and the cities of Cordoba and Cadiz.

Students also heard from local Spanish speakers on various topics such as cultural norms and working abroad. Students are often surprised by how greatly the trip affected them overall. Because of this, Francis encourages students to be global citizens. "Don't let your four years go by without taking the opportunity to study abroad. It will open your mind to new perspectives and adventures," said Francis. "College is the perfect time to have an experience like this."

Students enjoyed learning the history of Florence, Italy while developing skills that will contribute to their future careers. Mike Arsenault, associate dean, and Ellen Stern, associate professor, in the College of Communication and Design, traveled to Florence for an insightful adventure. Students participated in photography tours led by Florence University of the Arts instructors and experienced painting and photography classes with Arsenault and Stern. They also visited numerous historical cities and sites, including Pisa, San Gimignano, Cinque Terre, the Statue of David, the Uffizi Gallery art museum and more.

"Every day, our students were exposed to art history and culture. At Lynn, we are trying to prepare students for life. Study abroad contributes to this by allowing students to broaden their world views while learning course material,” said Arsenault.

Lynn students also visited England, Ireland and Poland during the summer months.

Expand your horizons. Learn a new language, explore a new place and try new things. Lynn University's International Programs and Services will help you find the perfect place to explore your capabilities and make memories. See programs online or contact them for more information.