Our Crowdfunding Groups
Although this project has concluded, if you would still like to make a donation to support the International Peer Student Network, you may always do so here.
Who We Are
We are the International Students Peer Networking (ISPN) organization at the University of Pittsburgh. We see ourselves as a bridge across students from different cultures, Pitt Education, and the university. We support the University of Pittsburgh School of Education international graduate students and those with interests in international education by enriching both their academic and living experience.
Our Project
We are fundraising to support Pitt international students' goal of attending future annual meetings of the American Educational Research Association. These annual meetings are a crucial platform for scholars, educators, and researchers to exchange knowledge, collaborate, and contribute to the advancement of education worldwide. It is our hope to send students to this year's AERA Annual Meeting in Philadelphia, PA from April 11-14, 2024 as well.
Why Support International Students
International students bring diverse perspectives, enriching the academic discourse with their unique experiences and insights. Attending conferences like AERA provides them with the opportunity to learn, network, and share their own research, contributing to the global education community.
Participating in education conferences is pivotal for international students as it provides a unique platform for academic enrichment, cultural exchange, and professional growth. AERA offers a diverse array of workshops, seminars, and presentations, allowing students to gain exposure to cutting-edge research, innovative teaching methodologies, and global education trends. This valuable knowledge empowers them to make changes when they return to their home countries. Attending conferences facilitates networking with established scholars and practitioners, fostering valuable connections that transcend global boundaries.
Challenges Faced by International Students
Unfortunately, many international students face financial barriers that prevent them from participating in such impactful events. Upon their arrival at Pitt, these students already shoulder their own substantial financial burdens, including tuition fees (triple the amount for international students), housing expenses, and daily living costs. Unlike some domestic counterparts, most international students do not receive financial support or scholarships from the university or US government. ISPN is committed to relieving this financial strain for our international students, building an environment where they can freely explore, travel, and broaden their perspectives without undue concern about the expenses associated with this valuable opportunity. Your support can make a significant impact.
How You Can Help
By supporting this campaign, you can help our international students overcome the issues outlined above and make a lasting impact on their academic journey. Even if you cannot make a monetary donation at this time, you can help us by spreading the word about this campaign with your networks and sharing our page link. You will help international students have the opportunity to attend future AERA conferences. Thank you for your support!
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Contributions received for this project shall be used in accordance with the purpose described herein, the terms in the FAQs and applicable law. For questions that cannot be answered in the FAQs, please call 412-648-4658 or email engage@pitt.edu.
Your donation of $50 helps our international students reserve transportation to and from this year's conference as well as future ones.
Your donation of $110 will cover the cost of a hotel room for one night for one student at an AERA conference.
Your donation of $250 helps with one student's AERA membership dues for one year.
Your donation of $500 helps with AERA conference registration fees for two students.
Your very generous donation of $1,000 will help multiple students attend AERA conferences.
