Helping Ryerson students explore the world

One of the best things about being a university student is getting the time and opportunity to conduct research in other parts of the world.

Thanks to Professor Kathleen Kellett, Associate-Dean, Undergraduate Studies, in Ryerson’s Faculty of Arts, travel will be a bit more accessible to promising Ryerson students. She generously donated $10,000 over the next five years to start a Global Exchange Award that will provide two Faculty of Arts students with $1,000 scholarships for a study abroad or exchange program.

There are currently limited funding options for students taking part in exchanges or study abroad programs, says Prof. Kellett. She hopes this award will make learning abroad possible for students who may not otherwise be able to afford to travel.

She also has advice for students embarking on trips abroad. “Take full advantage of the many kinds of opportunities that learning abroad can offer!” she says. “Trying new things will help you develop your independence and your own nuanced perspective in a way that is empowering. At the same time, this is also an opportunity to share your own knowledge and perspectives, and represent Ryerson University in a new city and community.”

Prof. Kellett was inspired to donate to Ryerson because of her undergraduate French immersion experience at Laval University in Quebec City, and as a master’s student teaching at the University of Nice in France.

“Not only did these experiences expose me to different teaching and learning styles but they helped me to grow as a person and have a broader, more inclusive perspective and a deeper understanding of French culture.”

The experiences also helped lay the groundwork for her current position as a professor in Ryerson’s Department of Languages, Literatures and Cultures.

Learning abroad had a major impact on Professor Kellett. She’d like her gift to help students integrate travel into their learning so they can open up new career opportunities.

She also hopes her gift encourages other faculty and staff to donate to Ryerson. “It is a privilege to work at a university and supporting students through a financial gift is another way to demonstrate that we believe in their potential.”

To learn more about the award, visit ryerson.ca/arts/students