For future educators at Illinois State University, student teaching is a defining milestone. The College of Education, in collaboration with the Study Abroad Office, offers multiple opportunities for Redbird Educators to take that experience beyond borders, building the skills, confidence, and cultural awareness needed for today’s diverse classrooms.

“The cultural component is incredibly significant,” said Dr. Monica Noraian, director of the Cecilia J. Lauby Teacher Education Center. “While student teaching abroad, students aren’t just in classrooms—they’re part of communities, working with learners whose lives and experiences contribute to a broader global perspective.”

The program allows students to complete their required student teaching hours in Illinois and then spend the second half of their semester at an international placement. This structure ensures students meet licensure requirements while also gaining meaningful global experience.

While abroad, students are paired with mentor teachers, beginning with observation before progressing into coteaching and leading lessons. Many placements take place in English or dual-language schools, allowing students to focus on instruction while supporting multilingual learners.

Dr. Evelyn Baca, associate professor in the School of Teaching and Learning and program contact for Alcalá de Henares, Spain, emphasized the transformative nature of the experience.

“Being in a new environment is both challenging and rewarding,” she said. “Students gain a new perspective and immerse themselves in a different culture while developing practical, hands-on teaching skills.”