International Service Teams

Learn, serve and lead abroad

International Service Teams (IST) is a unique opportunity for K-State students to exercise leadership and serve abroad. Teams travel to communities around the world to engage in community work. Projects have focused on health, education, environmental and sustainability concerns and youth development.  These student-led experiences are a powerful way to practice inclusive leadership, become more self-aware and be better prepared to engage with a diverse and changing world.

Experience

As a team member, students live in an international community and work with its members every day. Students apply academic skills to community problems and are required to adapt to constantly changing plans, people and activities. Working with a team of peers and a community partner, students co-create service efforts. Through these experiences, students enhance problem-solving skills, gain leadership experience and develop an appreciation for other cultures and perspectives.

Student stories

• Check out Sadye's behind-the-scenes look at her trip to South Africa.
• Hear our student coordinators talk about why International Service Teams are so valuable.
• Jill Appelgate, a K-State alum, explains how an International Service Teams trip prepared her for her professional career.

About our sites

Fall semester (pre-service): Host communities are identified by Student Coordinators. Student team members are selected in a competitive process.

Spring semester (pre-service): Team members complete an 8-week, three-credit-hour course during the second eight weeks of the semester to prepare for their summer abroad.

Summer: Teams travel to host sites and live in the community for 3-4 weeks.

Fall semester (post-service): Students complete structured reflection to debrief their experience.