Rhody 'Round the World

More than a Classroom

Finding a sense of comfort and community can make all the difference in an international student’s experience. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Erica Estus who has built meaningful connections with international students, both inside and outside the classroom. Together, we explore how empathy, cultural appreciation, and intentional connection help students feel supported as they navigate life far from home. Through personal reflections and stories of community-building, this conversation highlights how URI fosters a welcoming environment where international students are seen, valued, and empowered to thrive beyond academics.

From Kingston to Korea

What does experiential learning look like at URI? Join us as the Global Student Media Team (Bo, Sydney, and Megan) shares their journey documenting URI's South Korea Showcase in Seoul. They share their stories behind the lens: how this international experience shaped their skills, confidence, and future careers in media.

From Around the World to URI: Live show!

Recorded during International Education Week, this special live episode brings together two inspiring URI faculty members, Dr. Karl Aspelund and Dr. Soni Pradhanang, for a conversation about how global experiences shape academic journeys, research trajectories, and the classroom. Hosted in front of a live audience, this episode explores the impact of international education, the power of global connections, and the stories that inspire students and scholars alike. Join us as we celebrate global learning, share insights from our guests, and showcase the vibrant international community at URI.

Fellowships: Beyond the Application

In this episode of Rhody ’Round the World, we take a deeper look at what fellowships can unlock beyond the application. URI alum Tim Berard joins hosts Keegan Scott and Carolyn Chaves to share his journey of earning multiple fellowships and how a passion for language learning opened doors for global experiences and career growth. Together, they unpack the common misconceptions about fellowships, explore how these opportunities foster both personal and professional development, and highlight the transformative impact of connecting curiosity with purpose.

Localizing Global Experience

In this episode, we’ll explore Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) and how it connects faculty and students with peers around the world through virtual, project-based collaborations. We're joined by Dr. Donna Gamache-Griffiths from URI's College of Business to discuss how COIL integrates global perspectives into coursework, making international education more accessible. Learn how these partnerships enhance cross-cultural communication, critical thinking, and global engagement—all without leaving the classroom!