With over 3,000 international students attending Iowa State University, it’s no surprise that students are eager to share and expand their diverse cultures and practices. 

Onalie Ariyabandhu, a sophomore in economics, is from Sri Lanka, and has been working fervently in creating a study abroad program for her home country.

Along with the assistance from Dr. Jane Dusselier, assistant professor of anthropology, the program is set up and ready to go this summer, in July of 2013.

 “We thought of trying something new, and Dr. Jane became interested, and all of a sudden we were forming a study abroad program,” said Ariyabandhu.

Dr. Dusselier wrote a grant to the Dean through the Liberal Arts and Sciences College, and once it was approved she went over for a site visit, to develop the program. 

The Sri Lanka study abroad program is for 3 weeks in July and students will have the opportunity to really delve into the culture and history of the country.

“We will be going to six of the eight UNESCO heritage sites, historical sites, a platinum textile factory, a tea factory, industries, religious temples- both Hindu and Buddhist- it will be all field visits, there won’t be a classroom,” said Ariyabandhu.

Ariyabandhu says she thinks this will be a huge benefit for Iowa State.

“The reason I wanted to initiate this program is because I want people to know my culture and my country. I want them to appreciate our diversity, we have such a large history, and many sites, I want people to know and be able to identify my country. It would really benefit the students, to experience a very different culture,” said Ariyabandhu.

Dr. Dusselier agrees of the positive effect the program will have for students.

“I teach anthropology 230, a globalization class, and nothing is more frustrating to me then students who don’t know anything more than Iowa,” Dusselier said, “I’m tired of teaching globalization to students who haven’t traveled, I really wanted to get involved in study abroad to encourage all students to travel.”

“We need to get students out of their comfort zone into a radically different culture; not Spain, or England, or Europe, but a new and challenging place,” said Dusselier.

She says she encourages study abroad more and more in class, as she believes it is a serious aspect in a fulfilling future.

“I wish everyone could study abroad, and there are so many options.”

This particular program will allow students to earn 3 credits in anthropology, but it can be flexible for an LAS elective. The total cost for the entire program including class credits, transportation, accommodation, and entrance into the sites will be around $3,500.  More information can be found through the study abroad center.

“It’s a tiny island in south east Asia, but it encompasses such rich culture and history. There is so much to do, and students will have an opportunity to see it all in three weeks,” said Dusselier.