Global Engagement

Seattle University is an incredibly diverse and inclusive community of teachers, staff, and students with a deep commitment to meaningful and ethical global engagement.

  1. Who We Are
  2. Global Engagement
Imagining the World 2011 Study Abroad and International Photography Competition

Bringing Seattle to the World and the World to Seattle

Seattle University is dedicated to educating the whole person and empowering future leaders for a just and humane world. Global engagement and internationalization are central to this mission.

From Capitol Hill to the Himalayas, Bogota to Tokyo, our research, teaching, and service transcend national, cultural, and generational boundaries toward the goal of preparing students to thrive and thoughtfully lead in a rapidly changing world.

Global Connections in the Classroom & Beyond 

Global engagement is more than learning about different parts of the world; it is meaningful engagement with the world as a whole. This belief infuses everything we do and teach at Seattle University. By fostering ethical innovation, empathy, shared discovery, and intercultural encounters, we prepare students to meet global challenges with both humility and confidence.  
 
Our faculty and staff are dedicated to teaching, research, and service that create the conditions for human flourishing here in Seattle and across the globe. We aim to educate students to be global citizens, environmental stewards, and community leaders, no matter where they are from, what they do, or where they end up.

A global perspective promotes social cohesion, meets the demands of modern employers, and prepares our students to be active, engaged citizens. 
 
Promote Unity and Mutual Respect  

Learning about diverse cultural, political, social, and business customs from around the world enriches our campus community and prepares us to thrive in an interconnected world. By understanding and appreciating these differences, we build a more inclusive and harmonious environment for everyone. 
 
Meet Employer Demands for a Global Mindset  

In today's job market, employers value employees with a global mindset. They seek individuals who can navigate and contribute to diverse and multicultural workplaces. By cultivating a global outlook, our students strengthen their employability and are better prepared to succeed in a variety of professional settings. 
 
Prepare Students for Active Citizenship  

A global perspective equips students to be engaged and informed citizens. It encourages robust discussions about contested ideas, turning debates into opportunities for learning and growth. This approach does not mark the end of conversations but opens the door to ongoing dialogue and deeper understanding. 
 
Embrace the world with us and discover the value of a truly global education. 

Welcome to the Office of Global Engagement. We are home to many of the global opportunities and support services for students, faculty, and staff at Seattle University. We offer strategic leadership for campus-wide and global initiatives, overseeing and managing:

  • Global education
  • Global operations
  • Global partnerships
  • English-language learning for multilingual speakers
  • International students and faculty support and services
  • Native American and Indigenous students support and services
  • Prestigious fellowships and awards guidance 

We are your connection to a broad range of experiences, support services, and learning opportunities across campus and around the world. Never hesitate to contact us!

Explore Opportunities

Imagining the world

Education Abroad Programs 

Looking to explore the world with purpose? Consider us your academic travel guides. Discover our diverse selection of short- and long-term international programs designed to fit your academic and personal goals. Whether you're aiming to enhance your education or seeking new experiences, we will help you find just the right fit for you.

Learn about Education Abroad
Campus Scenes

English Language Learning Center

We provide multilingual speakers with the grounding they need to excel at Seattle University by offering advanced English language skills, insights into American college life, and vibrant learning spaces. English Language Learning Center services include English Language and Culture Bridge courses, individual tutoring sessions, and casual conversation circles to promote English language skills. 

Explore English Language Learning Center
Indigenous peoples institute logo

Indigenous Peoples Institute

At the Indigenous Peoples Institute we honor and celebrate Native American and Indigenous Peoples cultures and communities, offering support of our students’ academic journeys. Our services supporting Native American and Indigenous students include:

  • One-on-one mentorships with SU alumni, faculty, and staff, as well as community members beyond the campus
  • Quarterly opportunities to meet with Native American and Indigenous Peoples artists, writers, scholars, and elders
  • An inviting place to meet up with other Native American and Indigenous students.
Explore Indigenous Peoples Institute
fall involvement

International Student Center

As an international student, you are vital to our thriving university community and our commitment to empowering leaders for a just and humane world. At the International Student Center we act as your liaison to the federal government to support your student visa status as well as fostering cultural connections throughout campus. Among other things, our services include:

  • Student Advising
  • Maintain F-1 or J-1 visa status  
  • Obtain social security number, driver’s license, etc.
  • Assist with off campus work authorizations
Explore International Student Center
Thailand piano lessons global engagement

Global Partnerships

Seattle University is proud to engage in global partnerships and initiatives for our students, staff, and faculty. No matter how you connect with Seattle University, you can participate in experiences all over the world. Past projects have included:  

  • Teaching piano in Thailand
  • Conducting research and teaching at University College Cork in Cork, Ireland 
  • Partnering with urban and rural pharmacies in Belize to study the effects of diabetic medication  
  • Collaborating with lawyers, judges, and law faculty at the University of Witwatersrand, South Africa

Contact us for more information about our global partners and global opportunities.

The Office of Prestigious Fellowships and Awards

Fellowships and awards are an exceptional opportunity for students to expand their world views, embrace new cultures and meet new people. For those students who decide to pursue a fellowship or award, it is our honor to guide them through the selection and application process.

Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program

Looking to expand your professional experience outside the U.S.? The Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program offers over 400 awards in more than 135 countries to faculty, administrators, and other professionals seeking opportunities to teach, conduct research, and engage in professional projects globally.

Global Engagement At Home

Because Seattle is home to dynamic global companies and international communities, many of the experiential learning opportunities to help you become a stronger global citizen will be right in your backyard.

Explore The World Through Jesuit Universities

As a Jesuit University, we are our students’ gateway to education around the world through the International Association of Jesuit Universities. Seattle University is an active member of the organization and can facilitate teaching, research, and study opportunities with our global Jesuit partner institutions.

Faculty and Staff

We are committed to building and enhancing your global engagement experience. Whether you're seeking international opportunities, need support as an international student, or want to become involved in global initiatives, we are here to help.

Global Engagement Leadership

  • Aleksandra Petrovic, PhD
    Aleksandra Petrovic, PhD

    Associate Clinical Professor, English Language and Culture Bridge
    Director, English Language Learning Center



  • Kirsti Ruud
    Kirsti Ruud

    Interim Director, Advisor (Last Names A-L)

Connect with us

We’re here to help. For information about global engagement at Seattle University, contact:

Office of Global Engagement

ADMN 133