Global Mastodons Program Indiana University – Purdue University Fort Wayne

Mission Statement The mission of the Global Mastodons Program is to provide students who studied abroad an opportunity to share their experience with prospective study abroad students, their parents, and the IPFW community. The program seeks to communicate the value of studying overseas to compliment one’s academic training and professional and personal development. While developing and learning skills and tools necessary to become successful leaders in a variety of settings, the Global Mastodons Program will help guide peers along the path toward achieving their study abroad academic goals.

Responsibilities 1. Commit to two events per semester in addition to the study abroad fair. 2. Assist prospective study abroad students as they begin the research and application process. 3. Offer guidance on program options for students based on their academic and personal goals and relate your own experiences where appropriate. 4. Lead study abroad information sessions for prospective students. 5. Lead pre-departure and post departure orientation meetings. 6. Help maintain the study abroad library by organizing and restocking materials. 7. Participate in focus groups and panels to provide information for improving services offered by the Office of International Education. 8. Assist with the general marketing and promotion of study abroad to the IPFW and Fort Wayne community. 9. Augment IPFW Study Abroad communication through social media and newsletters. 10. Give presentations in classes, residence halls, and student organizations discussing the benefits of study abroad. 11. Attend campus events such as Open House. 12. Assist with the annual study abroad fair.

Benefits 1. Participate in an internship-like experience 2. Be a student role model and mentor and play a role in encouraging students to study abroad 3. Re-live and share your overseas experience with others. 4. Resume building in student advising, public speaking, event planning, and marketing. 5. Develop interpersonal and cross-cultural communication, organizational, public speaking, and problem solving skills. 6. Develop your leadership abilities through conducting study abroad information sessions and pre-departure and post departure orientations. 7. Receive official letters of recommendation for your career services portfolio. 8. Work with the Office of International Education on special events. 9. Picture yourself on the International Programs website 10. Receive a certificate of completion for volunteer service.