After a decade at Northern Kentucky University, Beth Lorenz decided to seek a new professional opportunity. The search led her to UNC Charlotte’s Office of Education Abroad, where she serves as assistant director.
It’s been about 15 months since Lorenz’s arrival in the Queen City, and she continues to explore her new home.
“Charlotte has such a mix of people from all over the country – there are pockets throughout the city and lots to do,” said Lorenz. “North Carolina’s topography is awesome – from the mountains to the beaches. In Northern Kentucky, it was hilly with the Appalachian Mountains to the east. And, of course, the weather is beautiful here. I’ll text my family about how nice it is here, when it’s cold and dreary in Cincinnati.”
An aficionado of live music and unique dining spots, Lorenz finds living near Uptown an ideal location for both passions. And, of course, Charlotte’s Southern culture and fascination with BBQ have made the transition all the more interesting, she noted.
On campus, Lorenz is focused on opening the world to UNC Charlotte students.
“Study abroad is a tremendous opportunity, and our office actively promotes the various offerings available – from week-long spring break trips to summer, semester or year-long excursions,” said Lorenz. “We believe in the power of study abroad and in how participants can grow academically, developmentally and professionally.”
In an increasingly interconnected world, greater numbers of businesses and organizations are seeking globally minded individuals, Lorenz added.
“College typically is the best time to have a global adventure and learn beyond one’s own personal bubble,” explained Lorenz. “It’s rewarding to help students discover the right program for them, and then to see how the experience affects them. Many study abroad students become more energized about making a difference in the world. I’ve seen shy students become more outgoing; I’ve witnessed the unfocused student who returns more mature and confident in his or her direction in life.”
Lorenz and her study abroad colleagues market opportunities through study abroad fairs and classroom presentations, and they stress such experiences are possible for all students.
“Last year, about 650 students participated in study abroad. So, our goal is to raise awareness among students so they become more familiar with all the options available,” said Lorenz. “We realize that financial considerations come into play, but the cost isn’t as great as they (students) think, especially with the exchange programs. Too many students think it’s out of their reach, but our goal is to help them explore options that can fit into their schedules and budgets. Students who go on a 10-day spring break trip often come back and express that even the short trip was transformational.”
Lorenz is fond of quoting one student who spent a year in Japan recently. “He returned home and reflected upon how every day in Japan was an adventure – can our students say the same about Charlotte?”