By Natalie Artiles
Coordinator Outbound Student Services, Office of International Education
October 30, 2025
The Office of International Education’s (OIE) Global Ambassador program is an exciting leadership initiative that empowers study abroad alumni to share their transformative experiences with the St. John’s University community. Global Ambassadors play a key role in encouraging students who may be reluctant to travel abroad by offering guidance, firsthand experiences, and assurance.
Students selected as Global Ambassadors must have recommendations from the study abroad team, leadership and communication skills, and a passion for global education. During the program, the ambassadors participate in a variety of on-campus events and help foster a campus culture of global awareness and curiosity. They also have the unique opportunity to propose and host OIE-sponsored events, giving them a creative voice in shaping the international education experience for others.
Please meet our six Fall 2025 Global Ambassadors below.
Emily Blickhahn
Program
St. John’s Semester in Rome
Major
Childhood Education
Minor
International Studies
“As a student in The School of Education, being abroad was an amazing mixture of both academic and hands-on experience that shaped my teaching philosophy. St. John’s gave me the opportunity to teach English and math to fifth-graders in a local elementary school called Ermenegildo Pistelli. Each week, my professor, Dr. Maslak, helped me plan and execute efficient lesson plans for my non-English speaking students, which was immensely useful as I am also a member of the five-year Honors program for TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). This experience gave me invaluable teaching experience that I look forward to bringing to the workforce. In terms of personal goals, I love to travel, and I was able to visit 10 countries and 12 cities in Italy. I planned each of these trips and their itineraries for my group in a cost-effective manner in between my intensive School of Ed workload. I am proud to say that I also achieved straight As with a 4.0 grade point average for that semester abroad, as I simultaneously taught and traveled.”
Stephanie Chao
Programs:
Global Passport – Rome
St. John’s Western Europe Semester
Major:
Marketing
Minor:
International Studies
“I always knew I wanted to study abroad, and the programs here at St. John’s were actually part of the reason I decided to go here! My first year I did the Global Passport program in Rome, and I instantly knew I needed to go back. Studying abroad was probably the most fun I’ve ever had, but it also gave me confidence when it came to navigating life. By pushing the boundaries of what I thought I was capable of, I was able to make new connections and explore new places. I also discovered a new passion for museums and learning about different cultures through art and folklore. The cultures that I experienced while abroad were so rich in history, and I can’t wait for my next travel opportunity so I can learn more!
Olivia Padilla
Programs:
Global Passport – Paris
St. John’s Semester in Paris
Panama Plunge
Major:
Biochemistry
Minor:
International Studies
“Being able to immerse myself in the French culture was an absolute dream. Transferring to St. John’s has opened the door to incredible global opportunities, allowing me to grow both academically and personally. I never imagined I would get to study in such a beautiful city, especially with the demand that comes with studying biochemistry, but St. John’s made it possible. In Paris, I took Bioorganic Chemistry, which not only deepened my understanding of the subject, but also allowed me to form a personal connection with my professor. Living the Parisian life was life-changing, and I miss it daily. I will forever be grateful for the opportunities St. John’s provides, and I will forever cherish the memories I made while studying abroad. This experience has strengthened my desire to pursue a career abroad, and I will always encourage others to take this leap and study in another country! Studying abroad has pushed me beyond my boundaries and taught me to suspend judgment, making it one of the most valuable experiences of my life.”
Gianna Ferriso
Program:
St. John’s Semester in Rome
Major:
Childhood Education
Minor:
International Studies
“The abundance of wonderful opportunities St. John’s University offers to students has always caught my attention. I always knew exploring the world, all while being a productive young student, was an enriching once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I was specifically interested in our Rome campus because it was always a dream of mine to visit where my family came from. As a student in The School of Education, I was given the opportunity to teach students English at a Roman primary school. I challenged myself to grow as an educator every day at Scuola Pistelli so I could make a greater impact on their learning. The Italian Cultural Center Scholarship and St. John’s gave me an incredible opportunity to immerse myself in the beautiful Italian culture by teaching alongside professionals and forming connections with locals. St. John’s in Rome has given me everything I have ever wanted and more. I will forever cherish the connections, friendships, opportunities, and memories I have made during my time studying abroad in Italy. Studying abroad and all that comes with it will forever be a part of who I am.”
Alexandra Cicala
Programs:
Global Passport – Paris
St. John’s Semester in Rome
European Innovation Academy – Rome
Major:
Business
“Participating in Global Passport Paris and St. John’s Semester in Rome were the best moments of my life. These experiences were quite transformative in influencing who I am as a student and overall person. My courses provided the unique experience of learning about Italian philosophers, history, and artistic masterpieces. I was able to gain a global perspective as my Italian professors provided key insights into the ways of life in Europe, as well as events facing society. While in Rome, I was able to immerse myself in my native heritage and gain a greater proficiency in the Italian language. Navigating life in a foreign country and having visited an additional 12 countries and 36 cities while abroad marked true points of growth in my leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills. There is immense growth to be experienced by immersing oneself in different cultures. I am forever grateful for my experiences abroad!”
Zeaya Rose Harrell
Programs:
Global Passport – Paris
St. John’s Semester in Paris
Major:
Legal Studies
Minors:
Business Law
Philosophy
“I’ve traveled to many places around the world, but Paris is a city that always feels endlessly new, no matter how many times I return. Its charm, rhythm, and magic are truly one of a kind to me. Every street tells a story, every sunset over the Seine feels enchanting, and every local I’ve befriended has taught me something about life, love, or laughter. Beyond Paris, studying abroad has opened doors to new countries and cultures, made even richer by friendships and spontaneous adventures along the way. It’s not just about the places you go, but the connections you make, the growth you experience, and the moments that stay with you for a lifetime.”
The Office of International Education is committed to making international studies accessible, meaningful, and student driven. Moreover, the Global Ambassador program actively supports St. John’s University’s global mission. By continuing to elevate the voices of study abroad alumni, the program not only supports future travelers in making informed and confident decisions, but also cultivates a community of global-minded leaders. For those selected, it is a platform for personal growth, leadership development, and cross-cultural connection. As the world continues to become more interconnected, the role of Global Ambassadors will be more vital than ever, and this tradition of peer-led engagement will continue to inspire generations of global citizens at St. John’s.