The Global Gaucho

Winter 2026 News & Updates

As we embark on 2026, we find ourselves inspired by the new global adventures our students are undertaking through the UCSB Education Abroad Program. Our collective efforts have recently earned exceptional recognition from the Institute of International Education: UCSB EAP now ranks No. 1 among all ten University of California campuses and No. 8 among public research universities nationwide for students studying abroad for a full academic year.   

These rankings are mirrored by the incredible participation of our student body. For the 2025-26 academic year, we are sending 1,319 students abroad — representing an impressive 21% of all UC students currently studying overseas through UCEAP. These figures are a testament to how deeply our students and our UCSB community value a global education.

Central to this success is our commitment to accessibility. This year alone, we have granted 112 scholarship awards, underscoring our dedication to ensuring that every student, regardless of financial background, has the opportunity to gain a global perspective. Our loyal alumni and friends are doing more than just funding trips; they are changing the life trajectories of our students. We are immensely grateful for this support.   

I invite you to explore the sections below to learn more about our program’s recent accomplishments, the profound impact of our scholarships, and firsthand testimonials from our students, alumni, and parents.

Cordiali saluti,

Fabio Rambelli

EAP Faculty Director

Professor of Religious Studies & East Asian Cultures

UCSB’s Education Abroad Program recognized among nation’s best

Expanding their worldview and gathering class credits along the way, upward of 1,300 UC Santa Barbara students are projected to study across the globe this academic year — participants in a campus tradition that dates back more than six decades and ranks among the best nationwide.

Beyond the Classroom: The Duncans support experiences abroad and in the stock market

Matthieu ’87 and Marie-Anne Duncan are expanding hands-on learning through their support of EAP and the Division of Social Sciences Dean’s Investment Group. Their generosity gives students the chance to apply classroom knowledge, from managing investments to studying abroad in France.

On Campus: Around the World with EAP

Through eye-catching photographs, returning students share their experiences living abroad with the campus community and highlight how EAP has enriched their undergraduate education at UCSB.

Erica Johnson ’26, Art and Japanese

Japan 

Hear from Erica about her year-long study abroad experience in Tokyo at the International Christian University.

Cheryl Chaffin, EAP parent

"From the time he was in middle school, my son and I planned for him to study abroad. Based on my own year-long experience in Florence, I encouraged Elias to go abroad for a full year rather than just a semester, explaining that it would give him time to get the full experience and learn the language. He applied for a program in France, was awarded a McNamara Scholarship, and spent his junior year at Sciences Po in Paris. He thrived academically and developed socially and psychologically, meeting fellow students from all over the world. He returned to campus with increased confidence, and his passion for the program led him to work as a Study Abroad Advisor for EAP during his senior year. This powerful experience will become part of your personal development and confidence in the world."

Linda Anne Engelhardt ’66,’68 (née Guisleman), BA French and German and MA German

“In 1965, when I applied for EAP in Göttingen, I hoped I’d be in for an adventure. 60 years later, I can tell you my hopes were more than surpassed. After finishing my MA at UCSB, I returned to Germany, built a family and enjoyed successful careers in journalism, teaching and the state culture and science foundation. 

Today, I’m still active in cultural and academic life here. EAP opened incredible doors for me – I encourage Gauchos of every generation to support this amazing program!”

Claire Scott ’25, Communication and Psychological & Brain Sciences

“Even the unfortunate occurrences, like getting fined for not buying a public transportation ticket (yes, that happened) or missing your train because you went to the wrong train station (yes, that happened too), will eventually become the lessons you learn and the stories you look back on.”

Jacob Dicker ’25, Communication and Economics 

Netherlands

“Go for local food. I always tried to do at least one traditional meal for that city or country wherever I went, and I was genuinely glad I did.”

Mark your calendars! On April 9, the Gaucho community will come together for Give Day 2026. Join fellow EAP alumni and friends to ensure that every student can say "yes" to a life-changing international experience. Stay tuned for updates heading to your inbox soon!

Thank you!

Connect with EAP alumni from across the UC system by joining the UCEAP Alumni LinkedIn network:

Questions or comments? Please reach out to:

Camille Kurreck

Associate Director of Development, Global & Experiential Learning

ckurreck@ucsb.edu | 805.893.5707

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