Tech's profile rising on global stage
Lubbock Avalanche Journal / Sept. 10, 2007A new educational partnership between Texas Tech University and the Peace Corps promises to enhance and strengthen the reputation and mission of both organizations. Last week, Peace Corps representatives were here helping Tech launch its new Master's International program allowing students to earn graduate degrees while serving as Peace Corps volunteers abroad.
In so doing, Texas Tech becomes not only the newest member of the program but also the first announced in Texas.
Chancellor Kent Hance noted the Peace Corps has been instrumental in promoting the causes of peace and prosperity "by utilizing the best of America's spirit - its goodwill and energy and optimism - in sending volunteers overseas." More than 360 Texas Tech alumni have served as volunteers since Peace Corps' creation 46 years ago. Peace Corps service is a 27-month commitment.
Broad Understanding. "I can't imagine a better program for broadening our students' understanding of other countries and the breadth and complexity of afflictions faced by those who are less fortunate," said Mr. Hance.
Master's International students will enroll in degree programs in the College of Agricultural Science and Natural Resources and the College of Education, combining their academic knowledge with a practical, international field assignment.
Since 1987, Master's International has expanded to include partnerships at more than 50 universities throughout the U.S. These graduate programs provide opportunities for volunteers to fill specialized assignment areas that require advanced education.
Firsthand Insight. Texas Tech President Jon Whitmore said he was delighted when Peace Corps selected Texas Tech as a partner.
"Our students will have the best opportunity available for learning new languages and cultures while gaining firsthand insight into global development challenges," said Mr. Whitmore.
The program will be managed by the university's Office of International Affairs with Ambassador Tibor P. Nagy, Jr., vice provost for International Affairs, serving as coordinator.
Positive Views. During his 25 years as a U.S. diplomat in Africa, Ambassador Nagy said he consistently found two groups of people with uniformly positive views of America:" Those who had contact with Peace Corps volunteers in their own countries; and" Those who came to the U.S. to study.
"Peace Corps Master's International," Ambassador Nagy said, "is a phenomenal program for preparing students to be even more effective Peace Corps volunteers while overseas and to be high performers in their selected professions once they return."
At-a-glance" Our Position: Texas Tech's partnership with the internationally recognized Peace Corps potentially raises the university's profile, prestige and influence around the globe." Background: As part of celebrating its 20th anniversary year, the Peace Corps' Master's International program has added Texas Tech University to its growing roster of more than 50 university partners." What Does This Mean To You: If you are qualified to apply, it means you have an opportunity to learn new languages and cultures in a real-world environment and gain firsthand insight into global development changes. " What You Can Do: If you are accepted into the program, you can share your professional expertise while serving in one of many host nations overseas." On the Internet: For more information on the Master's International program, visit the Peace Corps Web site. The address is: www.peacecorps.gov/masters
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