CMU student chosen for highly selective study abroad experience

The Council on International Educational Exchange awarded Central Michigan University undergraduate student Sarah Cavallaro with the highly competitive Leading Change in Latin America student fellowship. Only 100 student leaders in the U.S. are chosen for the program each semester.

Cavallaro will study in Buenos Aires, Argentina for the fall 2025 semester. While in the fully funded study abroad program, she will be immersed in Latin culture, history and language. She also will serve as an ambassador for CIEE, sharing her experiences with the world on social media to inspire others to consider studying abroad.

“I have always been very creative, and I am looking forward to filming parts of my life, and sharing them throughout each week,” Cavallaro said. “As a dancer, I am planning on taking tango lessons there and cannot wait to share my journey of learning a new style of dance, traveling, academics, and life in Buenos Aires.”

Marko Schubert, assistant director of CMU’s Office of Study Abroad said Cavallaro is an ideal fellowship participant, having already studied abroad three times.

“The CIEE fellowship will allow Sarah to immerse herself in Argentinian culture, study the local history and language, and be a part of a group of young professionals who aim to foster meaningful relationships between the US and the host country,” Schubert said.

Study abroad programs like CIEE's are an example of the immersive experiences CMU wants nearly all students to gain before graduation. It is a goal under priority one of the university’s 2023-2028 strategic plan.

Cavallaro said being chosen for the prestigious fellowship will enhance her experience as a CMU student.

“I feel so honored and grateful that I get this opportunity. This feels like the first step towards a life I have dreamed of living since childhood, and I cannot wait to embark on this journey!”