Teesside University sees rise in student international mobility

More students than ever at Teesside University are getting the opportunity to study and work abroad following a major increase in international mobility participation.

During the 2023/24 academic year, Teesside University saw a significant 61 percent increase in international mobility participation, with 201 students engaging in opportunities organised or supported by TU Global.

The University’s Global Team is involved in helping students to participate in valuable global experiences through its collaborative work with students, partners and stakeholders worldwide to transform lives and economies through education.

Funding for 117 of those mobilities was funded through the UK government’s Turing Scheme which aims to support global mobility experiences. 65 percent of participating students come from disadvantaged backgrounds or were part of widening participation activities.

Among students who took part in partnership activities overseas was international student Tobechukwu Asikoko, who spent time in Milan at the Ferrari Fashion School to carry out a research project as part of his MA Design with Advanced Practice.

Tobe’s project, Milan Exploration, researched the luxury fashion industry in Milan as a microcosm of the global luxury fashion industry.

Tobe, who shared insight into the trip through a blog, told of his “warm welcome” in Milan, where he was encouraged to attend events and exhibitions and immerse himself in the city’s “rich culture, history and fashion milieu.” He added that a key aspect of the internship was “the personal and professional growth”.

Other students who have shared their experiences include international management students Bridget Afowa Arhin and Jessica Preye, who spent time at Rome Business School, while project management student Adam Todd and international management student Temitope Obajinmi spent the summer months studying in Brazil.

International management student Ramachandren Ramesh Kumar, spent time at Rennes School of Business in France, describing it as “exciting, informative and life changing.”

Teesside University held its first Global Opportunities Week towards the end of last year, showcasing the range of opportunities for students to study abroad, along with volunteering, placements and other activities related to their academic schools. Students were given insight to how they can study, volunteer, or intern at overseas destinations such as Spain, India, France, America and Malaysia.

Alizée Cordes, International Mobility Manager at the University, said: “International mobility supports Teesside University's students in developing new skills and discovering the world. The support from the Turing Scheme has enabled us to create new programmes unlocking new opportunities and destinations.”

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