It’s been a hard week in international education.
Between government sanctions, visa delays, and ongoing shutdown disruptions, uncertainty seems to be the only constant. For institutions, partners, and—most importantly—students, these challenges ripple far beyond logistics; they touch dreams, timelines, and the sense of possibility that higher education is built upon.
And yet, even in this moment, I find myself holding on to hope.
Hope that the values at the heart of international education—curiosity, collaboration, and compassion—will continue to guide us forward. Hope that the bridges we’ve built across borders and cultures will prove stronger than the circumstances that test them. And hope that our collective commitment to learning and human connection will outlast any temporary barriers we face.
Every student who chooses to study abroad, every educator who advocates for access, and every institution that opens its doors to the world contributes to something far greater than a single program or policy. Together, we’re shaping a future defined not by isolation, but by understanding.
The path ahead may feel unpredictable, but our purpose remains clear: to create spaces where people from every background can learn with and from one another. That’s the essence of international education—and that’s what keeps me inspired, even on the hardest days.
— Dr. Rick L. Mask
Senior Associate Dean, Global Initiatives | Researcher | Advocate for Connection in Education
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