OU in Arezzo Looks Ahead

By Kirk Duclaux

The last two years have been a challenge and an important exercise in staying relevant in a study abroad landscape that is rapidly shifting. There is no such thing as "normal." Because the past was so unusually present for so long, and unforgiving to so many, OU in Arezzo and the College of International Studies are developing a plan for the future. We are in a COVID-altered world, surrounded by events beyond our control. However, these moments also present opportunities. We have seized the moment to take stock of our successes and reflect on what we should do better.

The College of International Studies has developed a targeted strategic plan for Education Abroad. The plan will help empower OU to move toward a future dedicated to changing students’ lives through affordable and transformative opportunities anchored by academic excellence across a broad spectrum of disciplines. Everything we do at OU in Arezzo from this moment on, from art history to nursing courses, from meteorology to music theory, must be based on the strategy that keeps OUA at the forefront of innovative education abroad programming. By following a CIS strategic plan that is realistic, inclusive and universally accessible, we will provide opportunities for even more students to experience OU in Arezzo, regardless of major or socioeconomic background.

OUA is launching new thematic-based semester cohorts that are made possible by our enhanced partnerships across all three OU campuses. New fall and spring cohorts will emphasize energy and climate sustainability, the fate of democracies and global security, global health care and pre-medicine, as well as biomedical engineering undergraduate research. These new cohorts are in addition to OUA’s regularly scheduled engineering-based STEM classes. Of course, all students have access to OUA’s standard courses in film, art history, international and area studies, Italian language, and various professional internships. Our goal is to increase participation and affordability through innovative programming that focuses on all levels of the student experience, from academic excellence and innovation to professional experiences and cultural competency. As stated in the OU "Lead On, University" strategic plan, we are determined to design programs that “prepare students for a life of success, meaning, service, and positive impact.” To borrow language from President Joe Biden, we can build back better and safer with the CIS strategic plan as our guide in educating students abroad.

Now is the time to forge ahead and position OU Education Abroad as a leader in the field. We can do this by following through with the CIS strategic plan and by harnessing the power and expertise at all three OU campuses to maximize the transformative experiences that come with studying abroad. We look forward to the challenges ahead and to the future. Lead On, University!

Kirk Duclaux is director of OU in Arezzo.