IPS Summer Program | International Programs and Services

Apply Now

The Summer Institute is designed to immerse university students in an American cultural experience through a variety of mediums. The Institute will stretch the lens through which students see themselves and their world by engaging them in cross-cultural relationship building experiences, open dialogue, and reflections with peers from diverse backgrounds. Using a multi-disciplinary approach which mirrors the complexity of the real world, this course provides students with valuable communication and intercultural skills, as well as key relationships with people from all over the globe, both valuable tools for their future careers.

Through close mentorship by university faculty, you will further develop your intercultural competence by applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. You will hone important interpersonal skills including active listening, negotiation, interviewing, and conflict resolution to more fully prepare yourself for success in our diverse and interconnected world.

Throughout the Institute, you will collaborate to tell a story in a
documentary format by moving through the different stages of
creation using every part of the living experience to illustrate
individuality and creativity. Upon completion of the Institute, a local theater will screen collaborative projects to demonstrate first-hand the power of the creative potential and the tapestry of unique perceptions.

Extracurricular activities will involve campus and community
engagements, as well as excursions throughout Duluth and
Northern Minnesota; resulting in lifelong friendships and memories.

Sample Itinerary

2023 Program Highlight

**Kremena Stoyanova** is the Director of the English Language and Culture Institute (ELCI) at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD). She also teaches domestic and international students. Kremena serves on the Duluth Sister Cities International Board whose mission of building bridges for global understanding strongly aligns with her vision. Kremena and her family regularly host international students and see great benefits in these cultural and social exchanges. In her spare time, Kremena enjoys reading, biking, walking on the beach, working in her art studio, and other creative activities that involve her family.

Geoi — **Dr. Ryan Goei** is an Associate Professor in Communication focused in intercultural communication, social influence, interpersonal, and health communication. For twenty years, Dr. Goei has been helping students bridge cultural gaps - helping them see connections where others see chasms. In addition to meaningful intercultural experiences, Dr. Goei does research on persuasion and relationship development. He directs the University Honors program at UMD and loves spending time with his family and playing in the beautiful outdoor spaces in Duluth.

Program Brochure