South SFV Today

Jeff Wang, a seasoned professional in international education, has been appointed as the new associate vice provost and executive director of the Bing Overseas Studies Program (BOSP) at Stanford University. Wang brings over two decades of experience in study abroad and international education, most recently serving as vice provost for global and immersive studies at American University.

Reflecting on his initial weeks with BOSP, Wang noted, "I’ve come across a wealth of fascinating stories about the transformative impact of BOSP. Being one of the oldest and most respected study abroad programs in the country, BOSP isn’t just about its long history – it’s also about its huge global presence."

BOSP operates nine centers and collaborates with three partner schools worldwide, offering both quarter-length programs and short-term Global Seminars. Approximately 50 percent of Stanford undergraduates participate in these programs, compared to a national average of 6-7 percent. "Our quarter-length programs make up over 80 percent of BOSP student participation," Wang explained. "This extra time helps students really connect with their host cultures and immerse themselves in their studies."

Wang's own experience as an international student in the U.S. significantly influenced his career path. He shared, "Immersing myself in a new culture turned out to be incredibly transformative. It wasn’t just about picking up new knowledge and skills; it changed who I was as a person." This personal transformation fueled his passion for designing courses and leading study away programs.

Looking ahead, Wang hopes that Stanford students will gain more than academic knowledge from their study away experiences. "They’ll acquire valuable skills, broaden open-mindedness, and enhance their ability to address uncertainty," he said. He also emphasized the importance of embracing challenges associated with studying away from home.

Regarding future challenges for study away programs, Wang highlighted the need to align learning goals with contemporary global issues such as technological advancements and environmental sustainability. Additionally, he stressed the importance of catering to a diverse student body with varying academic interests and personal needs.

"While these challenges are substantial, they also present opportunities for growth and innovation," Wang remarked. He expressed optimism about navigating these changes post-pandemic while maintaining BOSP's core strengths.

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