Beyond the Classroom: New College of Florida Transforms Students Into Global Explorers and Future Leaders
International Education Destinations
Jim Pulos
SARASOTA, FL — At New College of Florida, the world is the classroom. Moving far beyond traditional textbooks and campus lectures, New College is redefining the study abroad experience, offering transformative international adventures that turn exceptional students into culturally fluent, globally prepared leaders.
Today’s top employers are looking for more than just technical skills. They want graduates who are adaptable, resourceful, and capable of solving complex problems in unfamiliar environments. At New College, international education is not just an optional add-on—it is a core pillar of a dynamic honors curriculum that seamlessly connects elite academics with high-impact, real-world exploration.
Through faculty-led programs, immersive research, and international internships, New College students are taking their passions across the globe.
For students like Abigail Hickinbotham, studying abroad in Italy meant stepping directly into history. Rather than simply reading about the Roman Empire or the Renaissance, students studying in Italy get to explore iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain firsthand, bridging the gap between classical education and physical exploration.
Meanwhile, in Central America, New College students Jayden Ponsford and Josh Evans recently participated in the faculty-led Coral Reef Issues program in Cayos Cochinos, Honduras. Trading a traditional classroom for tropical jungles and one of the world's most biologically diverse marine environments, they conducted hands-on marine research and engaged directly with local communities.
“Studying abroad in Cayos Cochinos, Honduras completely changed my life,” Ponsford said of the immersive trip. “It was more than just an academic experience; it was the most fun and eye-opening adventure I've ever had.”
What sets New College’s international programming apart is the unparalleled support students receive to make these adventures a reality. The Office of International Education works hand-in-hand with the college’s Career Center and dedicated faculty mentors to ensure every trip is tailored to a student’s specific career goals.
The result is a graduate who possesses a distinct competitive edge. By studying internationally, New College students develop highly sought-after professional competencies, including:
- Cross-Cultural Communication: Collaborating effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and languages.
- Complex Problem Solving: Navigating unfamiliar environments and adapting to sudden changes with confidence.
- Global Perspective: Understanding how international issues impact local economies, healthcare systems, and businesses.
When New College students return to Sarasota, they bring the world back with them. The confidence, perspective, and adaptability they gain abroad are immediately reinvested into the local community. As Sarasota continues to grow as a hub for innovation, marine science, and entrepreneurship, New College graduates are uniquely equipped to lead the charge, thinking globally while solving challenges locally.
Studying internationally at New College is not about simply collecting passport stamps—it is about cultivating intellectual curiosity, embarking on unforgettable adventures, and preparing to lead in an interconnected world.
James (Jim) Pulos is Associate Director, Office of International Education, New College of Florida
Jim has nearly thirty years of progressively responsible leadership and administrative experience in all aspects of educational programming and practice. A dynamic team-builder providing superior customer service in all areas of program development and support, Jim has sent literally tens of thousands of students abroad. He is absolutely elated to bring his extensive knowledge of best practices in comprehensive internationalization, including student mobility and recruitment, partnerships, curriculum development, health and safety, faculty engagement, and customized programming to New College of Florida and looks forward to further enhancing NCF’s international prominence and presence.
James Miller
New College of Florida
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