On the subject of travel, St. Augustine once wrote, "The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page." If you’re eager to broaden your worldview and learn about culture, knowledge, cuisine, and even science outside of your homeland, international education can be a great way to turn a few pages in the book of the world. To celebrate International Education Week (Nov. 16-20), Rio Salado College’s Wave Makers podcast’s latest episode is all about the benefits of stepping outside your geographical comfort zone.
Wave Makers host Michelle Reese talked to two members of the Rio family who are deeply involved in international education: Kathleen Lüppker, Rio's department head of International Education and Global Partnerships, and Dr. Lamont Slater, Faculty Chair for the Humanities, Philosophy, and Religious Studies. Lüppker helped put together a slate of events at Rio Salado to celebrate International Education Week (IEW), while Slater (who is participating in several IEW events) will be leading Rio’s 2027 Study Abroad program to Portugal.
Reflecting on their favorite places, Slater spoke eloquently about his time in Cape Town.
"The exposure to different cultures and histories really got me interested in learning globally," Slater said. "What I discovered is that you can't learn everything from books and that travel is another form of education."
Lüppker, who counted European metropolises like Zurich and Berlin as among her favorite cities, emphasized that you don't have to leave your city limits to have an international experience.
"You don't need a passport to have an international experience," Lüppker said. “Sometimes it starts with a simple conversation, sharing a meal, listening to someone's story, and learning about a different culture and how it's different from your own. So it's not just about learning about the world; it's really about building a more connected community right here."
In a wide-ranging conversation, Slater and Lüppker talked about their individual experiences traveling to Berlin, Egypt, and Namibia, sharing the surprising insights and mishaps they experienced along the way. Slater spoke in depth about the upcoming study abroad session, which is still taking applications until November 18. Both educators made a compelling case for the importance of seeing the world.
Listen now on Podbean or find Wave Makers on your favorite podcast channel: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube.
Celebrate International Education Week at Rio Salado
Whether you’re interested in going abroad or looking to add some international flavor at home, Rio Salado has a slate of in-person and virtual events next week to bring the world to you.
🌎Monday, Nov. 16
Moving Abroad in Challenging Times
Time: 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Where: Join via Google Meet
Join us for an exciting conversation about the realities of living abroad! Hear firsthand experiences, explore the challenges of moving overseas, and learn from two panelists about their journeys and transitions abroad. Presented by Dr. Lamont Slater, Faculty Chair at Rio Salado College.
Study Abroad in Portugal Summer 2027
Time: 12–1 p.m.
Where: Join via Google Meet
Learn about Rio Salado College’s Portugal Summer Study Abroad Program! Explore program highlights, costs, scholarships, and the application process while getting your questions answered. Presented by Dr. Lamont Slater, Faculty Chair at Rio Salado College.
🌎Tuesday, Nov. 17
Cafe Around the World
Time: 8:30–10:30 a.m.
Where: Rio Splash Pad
Enjoy a taste of treats from around the world, listen to global music, and learn more about our Portugal Study Abroad program. Hosted by RSC International Education.
Global Career Panel: How Global Experiences Can Shape Your Career
Time: 12–1 p.m.
Where: Join via Google Meet
Join us for an inspiring career panel featuring professionals with international experiences and diverse career journeys. Hear how global education, cross-cultural skills, and international opportunities can open doors in today’s workforce. Presented by Rio Salado College Career Services & International Education.
From Around the World to RSC: Stories That Connect Us
Time: 1–2 p.m.
Where: Register via Webex
Join us for a fun and engaging conversation featuring staff who have lived, worked, studied, or grown up in countries around the world. Through personal stories, cultural reflections, and meaningful conversation, our panelists will share how their international experiences have shaped who they are, how they connect with others, and the perspectives they bring to our college community. Come ready to listen, learn, laugh, and connect! Presented by Rio Salado College Reina Ferrufino & the Community Engagement Council.
🌎Wednesday, Nov. 18
Navigating the New Era of International Student Immigration
Time: 12–1 p.m.
Where: Join via Webex
Join immigration attorney Rachel Bus for an informative conversation on the evolving landscape of U.S. immigration law and what recent changes mean for international students. Gain practical insights, understand what’s changing, and learn how to navigate the new immigration environment with confidence. All international students are invited. Presented by Rio Salado College International Education and Brelje & Bus Immigration Law P.C.
🌎All Week
Lunch at Rio Salado Cafe
Time: 11 a.m.–2 p.m., Monday through Thursday
Enjoy international lunch specials all week at the Rio Salado Cafe.
For all 60+ District wide events, visit:
https://www.maricopa.edu/events/collection/international-education-week
Article by Austin Brietta