Molly Sporleder

Hastings College students have long been able to study abroad and expand their education beyond the classroom. Students are afforded an opportunity to spend a semester, a summer, or even a full year immersed in a new culture while earning credit towards their degree. Due to budget restraints, the study abroad program has been cut, with little explanation given to students. Dr. Wayne Riggs, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Academic Dean, reflected on the situation, noting, “The study abroad program was in place before my time at Hastings, as I began in late June of 2024. From my understanding, we are now focusing on expanding broader opportunities for students through upcoming improvements.”

Previously, Hastings College offered several options for students to study abroad. The Direct Exchange program allowed students to attend a partner institution in another country for the same tuition cost as Hastings College, with financial aid applied. The Direct Enrollment program gave students the ability to enroll directly at an international school for a term and return to Hastings afterward. However, with no current partner schools, the college is unable to match tuition. Faculty-led travel courses, which typically lasted 7–14 days, were another option, but those, too, are no longer funded.

The reasons for the disappearance of study abroad remain unclear. Students have inquired with the faculty, but many of their questions have gone unanswered. Instead, students have been informed of new campus developments, including a new residence hall, The 1882, which will feature meeting rooms, a workout space, a central courtyard, and a mix of room setups. Another big update are the renovations to the Hazelrig Student Union (HSU), which happened over the summer. The HSU now features an updated Bronco Blend, a coffee shop that provides a welcoming space to study, relax, and connect. Hastings has also welcomed new faculty who are motivated to support students and bring fresh ideas to the classroom.

These improvements demonstrate the college’s commitment to creating a stronger, more engaging community where students can thrive academically and socially. Still, many students continue to ask questions, saying they feel unsettled and want what they were promised. Amanda Skinner expressed her frustration with the college’s decision, stating, “I feel the money used for study abroad went into the new 1882 residence hall, which irritates me because we were promised study abroad throughout my years at Hastings.”