Global Connections & Engagement

Palm Beach State College fosters experiences for students to exchange ideas and meet students and faculty from around the globe. The Office of International Education supports a variety of partnerships to enhance learning and research for students. 

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Conferences

As a PBSC student, you can embrace opportunities to participate in regional and national conferences that align with your pathway program, providing you with meaningful connections and opportunities.


National Model United Nations

Palm Beach State College sends student delegations to this conference where students engage in mock diplomacy, negotiation and discussions on global issues. The conference is the world's largest and oldest ongoing university-level Model United Nations.   

In the News: PBSC delegation wins Distinguished Delegation Award at NMUN conference

 

Phi Theta Kappa Catalyst

PTK Catalyst is Phi Theta Kappa’s premier annual event, bringing together members, advisors, and supporters for an inspiring experience of growth and recognition. It includes professional development, keynote speeches from industry leaders, expert college transfer guidance, leadership training, networking opportunities, and celebrations of PTK achievements.

In the News: Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society students recognized at international conference

 

NAFSA Annual Conference & Expo

The NAFSA Association of International Educators is the world’s largest association dedicated to international education and exchange. International educators from all corners of the world will gather to attend sessions developed by peers from international education leaders and changemakers across the globe. Connect with fellow attendees and build a network essential to your professional success.

 

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Collegiate National Leadership Conference

FBLA members convene to compete in leadership events, share their successes, and learn new ideas about shaping their career future through workshops and exhibits. This conference is considered the pinnacle of the FBLA experience, especially for those running for national office. 

 

Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Annual Conference & Expo 

Join HR professionals for learning, networking, inspiration, and professional growth. Whether you prefer competency-based HR seminars, hands-on workshops or curated content on crucial HR topics like mental health, AI in the workplace and more, there is something for you. 

 


Collaborative Online International Learning

Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), is an innovative teaching and learning approach that brings global perspectives into the classroom through online collaboration.

COIL fosters cross-cultural understanding and global awareness by connecting students and faculty from different countries to work together on joint projects, assignments, and discussions. Students engage in meaningful, virtual exchanges with peers from partner institutions, allowing them to share diverse perspectives, challenge their thinking, and develop a deeper understanding of global issues.

COIL courses are structured to combine online instruction with collaborative activities, where students from different cultural backgrounds work together on common goals. These interactions are facilitated by faculty members who co-teach and guide students through the process, ensuring a rich and immersive learning experience.

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COIL by the Numbers

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  • Global Reach: COIL has connected over 500 institutions in 60 countries, involving more than 25,000 students worldwide.
  • Diverse Disciplines: COIL projects span a wide range of disciplines, including business, health sciences, social sciences, humanities, and STEM fields.
  • Increased Engagement: Studies have shown that students participating in COIL report a 30% increase in engagement and interest in their courses, as well as improved cultural awareness and communication skills.

Benefits for PBSC Students

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  • Enhanced Cultural Competence:  COIL offers PBSC students a unique opportunity to interact with peers from diverse cultural backgrounds, helping them develop critical cultural competencies that are essential in today’s globalized world.
  • Global Networking:  By participating in the program, students build international connections and networks that can benefit them personally and professionally. These relationships often extend beyond the course, leading to future collaborations and career opportunities.
  • Real-World Skills Development:  Projects require students to work on complex, real-world problems in collaboration with international peers. This experience helps students hone essential skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication across cultural and linguistic differences.
  • Accessible Global Education:  COIL allows students to gain global perspectives without the need to travel, making international learning accessible to all PBSC students, regardless of their financial or personal circumstances.
  • Preparation for the Global Workforce:  In an increasingly interconnected world, employers value candidates who have experience working in multicultural environments. COIL provides PBSC students with a competitive edge by equipping them with the skills and experience needed to thrive in a global workforce.

 


University Partnerships

PBSC is dedicated to providing students with global experiences through our University Partnerships. These partnerships offer immersive study abroad programs that go beyond traditional offerings. 

While our standard study abroad programs allow students to explore various destinations, PBSC’s University Partnerships focus on a more in-depth cultural immersion. Students are primarily situated in one location, where they can fully immerse themselves in the local culture, history, and academic environment.


Why Choose a University Partnership Program?

Students participating in these programs have the unique opportunity to live and study in a specific region, allowing them to engage deeply with the local community, traditions, and way of life. This deep dive into a single culture provides a richer understanding of the area than a more generalized study abroad experience.

Collaborating with peers and faculty from partner universities overseas fosters an environment of mutual learning and exchange, where students gain new perspectives and develop life-long connections.

University Partnerships often include specialized coursework and projects tailored to the cultural and academic context of the host country. These programs complement PBSC’s educational offerings, providing students with unique opportunities to study subjects in ways influenced by the cultural setting.