International Center University of Florida

Poet and scholar Dr. Kole Odutola shares highlights from his inspiring week at the 29th Poetry Africa Festival in Durban, South Africa (October 6–11, 2025). His travelogue captures the spirit of creativity and justice that filled each day—from powerful performances and global voices to moments of reflection overlooking the Indian Ocean.

To read the full travelogue, click here or on the image below.

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Yessy Eka Ambarwati is a graduate student in the Educational Technology program at the University of Florida and serves as a member of the International Student Council for Fall 2025–Spring 2026. Originally from Indonesia, Yessy has more than ten years of experience as a physics teacher and has worked as part of her school’s International Curriculum team, teaching IGCSE and A-Level students. Her passion for education and technology has led her to pursue advanced studies in the U.S., supported by a Fulbright scholarship. She has also participated in programs at the University of Michigan, focusing on advanced educational technology, and has won several national teaching...

For Jess Mercier, travel was never a given - it was a choice that changed everything. Born in Indiana and raised in South Carolina, she didn’t grow up in a family that traveled much. However her participation in Semester at Sea as an undergraduate student opened her eyes to the world and quickly turned her international curiosity into a calling.

Today, Jess serves as the Assistant Director of Outreach & Marketing for UF Study Abroad, where she helps inspire students to take their first steps toward transformative international experiences. Jess’s current position is a conglomeration of various outreach and marketing outlets – social media, the student blog, on-campus events,...

Earlier this month, UF faculty, staff, and students participated in the 2025 International Virtual Exchange Conference (IVEC) held in Heraklion, Greece—joining sessions both in person and online as attendees and presenters. UF presenters from this year's conference included:

• Carrie Martins from the Office of Global Learning, Dr. Talline Martins from UF’s Graduate School, Dr. Matthew Traum from UF’s Wertheim College of Engineering, Ms. Nicole Kershner, UF engineering graduate student, and Dr. Paloma Rodriguez led a session on Building Bridges through Virtual Exchange/COIL Professional Development for Graduate Students: Supporting Student, Instructor and Institutional...