For students at the University of Wisconsin–Madison looking to go abroad, finding international experiences that fit with their academic pursuits—in terms of both content and schedule—can be daunting.

For international students studying at UW–Madison, making American friends is important, yet often difficult.

These are among the top issues that have emerged from initial discussions of the Student Advisory Board on Global Leadership, a group created by the Division of International Studies to provide a student forum to discuss critical issues facing the globalization of the university. The board held its inaugural meeting on January 30 and met again on February 27.

“We launched this board to provide interested students with a voice in shaping the direction of UW–Madison’s international initiatives and to help develop future ambassadors for the university,” says Gilles Bousquet, dean of International Studies and vice provost for globalization.

Steven Olikara, UW–Madison’s senior class president, approached Bousquet with the idea of starting a student advisory board, and the two collaborated on its launch. They sought nominations from across campus and invited a diverse group of students to join.

“We were seeking both undergraduates and graduate students who have demonstrated leadership skills and have participated in international experiences – either overseas or domestically – as well as international students who have been involved in campus organizations or activities and are likely to be engaged in alumni activities following graduation,” says Olikara.