A lifelong passion for travel and cross-cultural connection led Jennifer Gwasira to a career helping students explore the world.

As assistant director of study abroad, she brings firsthand experience from numerous countries and a deep belief in the power of international education to the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

Originally from Harare, Zimbabwe, Gwasira earned a bachelor’s degree in German and linguistics from the University of Zimbabwe in 2021 and a master’s degree in German studies from the University of Arizona, which she attended as an international student from 2022 to 2024. Her academic journey also includes time as an international student at a public research university in Aachen, Germany.

Gwasira grew up in a family that values travel, and she always had a strong interest in different cultures and languages, so she caught the travel bug early. She took French in high school, then had the opportunity to visit Lille and Paris for four weeks.

“That experience sparked my passion for independent travel, so by the end of high school, I decided to spend my final year studying in Germany,” she explained.

Through Rotary International’s youth exchange program, she lived with three German host families and attended a high school there.

“That year changed the trajectory of my life,” she said. “Learning German opened a new cultural lens and deepened my passion for understanding linguistic and cultural differences. I just knew I wanted to continue traveling and realized I could do so meaningfully through my academic journey.”

Now at UNK, Gwasira has overseen study abroad advising, program coordination and outreach since fall 2024, helping Lopers gain the same life-changing perspective she found through travel.

What inspired you to choose this career path?

International education and travel have given me more than I ever imagined, and I felt a strong desire to give back, especially to the field that created opportunities for a young girl with big global dreams. That desire took shape during my time in Arizona, where I served as a global ambassador. In that role, I supported international students with orientation, cultural programming and community-building initiatives. While the work focused on inbound students, it was my first experience seeing the inner workings of international education – and it helped me realize how much I valued helping others navigate new environments, just as I had done through my own travels. That experience ultimately inspired me to pursue a path where I could empower students to explore the world themselves and support them in making those transformative experiences possible.

Tell us about your role as assistant director of study abroad:

I advise students and manage all aspects of the study abroad process, from recruitment and selection to orientation and re-entry. I also support faculty by leading or developing programs, coordinating promotional efforts across campus and collaborating with departments to expand experiential learning. While much of my work is student-facing, I also oversee the study abroad portal and ensure compliance with institutional travel and administrative policies.

What study abroad experiences are available to UNK students?

UNK students can travel to Europe, East Asia and Latin America for an entire semester or for a full academic year. Short-term options are also available, including summer programs and faculty-led trips. All programs are listed in our online catalog. No matter your major, there’s a study abroad opportunity for you.

Why is this something they should consider?

Students gain exposure to new cultures, perspectives and ways of thinking, which broadens their worldview. They also develop greater independence and adaptability, boosting their confidence and problem-solving abilities. Beyond personal growth, studying abroad enhances career prospects by providing valuable international experience and networking opportunities. Another great thing is that students often have access to high-quality education and develop essential soft skills, which benefits them academically and professionally.

What do you enjoy about your job?

What I love most about my job is the student interaction. Whether students are just beginning to explore study abroad or already have a clear plan, their curiosity and excitement always remind me of the thrill of anticipated travel, which is truly the heart of the work for me. Being part of the Modern Languages and International Studies Department adds to this energy, as my colleagues share the same passion for global learning. This positive environment makes every advising session a rewarding experience for both students and me.

How many countries have you been to?

I have traveled to 14 countries, not counting the U.S. – South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, Botswana, France, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Hungary, Czech Republic, Austria, Italy, Switzerland and Monaco.

Where is your favorite place to visit?

That’s a tough question, because I’ve loved many places for different reasons. If I had to choose, I’d say the Netherlands – specifically a village called Giethoorn in northeastern Holland. It’s exceptionally beautiful and tranquil, often called the “Venice of the North” because of its canals. Visiting there felt like stepping into a fairytale and that peacefulness has stayed with me. I’d love to go back!

Share something unique about yourself:

I’ve always been passionate about sports. At 15, I played field hockey on Zimbabwe’s national team and was part of the Youth Olympic Qualifiers squad. I also played volleyball and tennis and swam competitively. I now play some of these sports recreationally to keep active.