International Studies Prepared Karlee Rice ’19 for Global Education Career

Karlee Rice '19

Education

• M. Ed. in International Higher Education, 2022 (Loyola University Chicago)
• B.A. International Studies, 2019 (Millersville University)
  • Social Justice and Cultural Studies minors

On-Campus Highlights

• Recognized by Millersville University as a Global Ambassador
• President for Alliance for Social Change
• Faculty Liaison for Gender and Sexuality Alliance
• Distinguished Leadership Award: Issued by Millersville University's Office of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management in May 2019
• Social Work Organization Award: Issued by Millersville University's School of Social Work in May 2019
• Served as chair of the planning committee for MU's PrideFest celebration

Current Pursuits

• Employed as an international education practitioner at AFS-USA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to intercultural exchange, global competence and peacebuilding through international education programs. Supports the development and implementation of global mobility programs for students.
• Serves as a Global Up Facilitator to manage and support 18+ and gap year programs, working directly with participants to prepare them for and engage in international experiences.

Since her graduation in 2019, international studies alumna Karlee Rice has worked closely with students to expand their opportunities in study abroad programs and to make international education more inclusive and accessible for students of all backgrounds.

How did Millersville align with your career path?

"My time at Millersville University played a foundational role in shaping both my academic interests and career path. I majored in international studies, which gave me the opportunity to engage with global issues both inside and outside of the classroom. Through this program, I traveled to the United Nations, an experience that deepened my interest in international collaboration and global systems. Presenting at Made in Millersville helped spark my continued interest in research, which carries into my work today. My minor in social justice through the social work department deeply influenced my understanding of equity, access and advocacy. This coursework helped shape my commitment to creating more inclusive opportunities in education, particularly within international programs.

"Outside of the classroom, I was actively involved in several student organizations that strengthened my leadership and community engagement skills. As president of the Alliance for Social Change, I helped lead initiatives focused on social awareness and advocacy on campus. I also contributed to campus committees and worked as a student employee in the Intercultural Center. In this position, I was given the opportunity to plan and lead major events, including serving as chair of PrideFest. Additionally, as a global ambassador with the Office of International Programs and Services, I worked closely with international students and supported cross-cultural programming and events. Together, these experiences allowed me to develop a strong foundation in leadership, intercultural engagement and social justice, ultimately influencing my decision to pursue a career in international education."

How did you get from Millersville to your current profession?

"After graduating from Millersville, I pursued my Master of Education in international education at Loyola University Chicago. I completed my graduate studies during the COVID-19 pandemic, which meant navigating an ever-changing global landscape, especially within international education and global mobility. This experience gave me a unique perspective on the challenges and resilience of global programs and further strengthened my commitment to expanding access in a rapidly shifting world. During my program, I gained specialized knowledge in global mobility, higher education systems, and issues of equity and access in study abroad. I also had the opportunity to engage with diverse student populations and refine my interest in supporting students through international experiences.

"One of the most impactful parts of my graduate experience was studying at Loyola's Rome campus, where I completed my final coursework. Being immersed in an international setting reinforced my passion for global education and the importance of experiential learning. From there, I transitioned into a professional role in international education, where I now apply both my undergraduate foundation from Millersville and my graduate training to support students in accessing global opportunities. My journey has been driven by a consistent interest in education, cultural exchange and creating more equitable pathways for students to study abroad."

Where is your favorite place in the world?

"One of my favorite places in the world is South Africa. I am especially drawn to its rich cultural diversity, complex history, and the ways in which education and social change intersect in the post-apartheid context. My interest in South Africa has also influenced my academic and professional work, particularly as I explore how global education programs can be designed to be more inclusive and impactful. Beyond that, I love traveling in general and have been to 25 countries. Each destination offers a new perspective and reinforces the importance of global connection and understanding."