Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I could not study abroad during my college experience. However, I did take part in a seminar-type course (Honors 490) during my junior year at Longwood University in a collaborative project with students from Windesheim University, located in Zwolle, the Netherlands, to satisfy my graduation criteria and practice social innovation and teamwork with those from another nation in a similar way to a true study abroad experience.

The project that was necessary for the completion of the study abroad program was the creation of an innovative solution to combat climate change. My team members and I came up with a solution in the form of an app called “Artish,” which would encourage people worldwide to clean up trash and pollutants by providing in-app rewards and “points.” There was also an option to create art from the items collected and share and sell it. Finally, the app would provide an opportunity to connect with friends. At final presentations, our project won 2nd place for overall design, planning, innovation, and uniqueness.

My artifact for this course is the infographic we designed to serve as a visual aid to explain our app and why it is necessary. I am unable to make this image larger as a result of this website’s formatting. However, if the text is too small for you to read, you can right click on the image and select open in new tab, where your browser should allow you to zoom in.

This experience was so beneficial to my learning. While I would have loved actually to travel, COVID made that impossible. However, the skills I have learned in international communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving are invaluable for my future career as a social worker. I hope that further opportunities will arise as I progress through my career.