Dr. Melissa Gibson
Leading Journeys of Discovery
Through faculty-led study abroad programs, Dr. Melissa Gibson helps students and others
experience transformative global journeys that change how they see the world.
Dr. Melissa Gibson
Leading Journeys of Discovery
Through faculty-led study abroad programs, Dr. Melissa Gibson helps students and others experience transformative global journeys that change how they see the world.
"Whether it was riding a gondola in Venice or seeing the Coliseum and the Vatican in Rome, or swimming and laying on the beach in Barcelona, or being able to see the Eiffel Tower being above the clouds. On a mountain in Switzerland. Those are such special memories, and as faculty members, I think that we can facilitate those kinds of experiences for students and it's gonna be one of the best experiences we can give them."
After her colleague unexpectedly retired, Dr. Melissa Gibson found herself solely responsible for leading 35 PennWest students—the largest study abroad group at the time—through Italy and Greece. What began as a terrifying prospect evolved into one of her most rewarding professional experiences.
"I honestly think it's probably one of the best experiences that I've had as a faculty member in 30 years in higher education," says Gibson, professor and graduate head of PennWest's Masters program in corporate communication.
That initial journey sparked a passion for connecting students with global experiences. Gibson went on to organize trips in 2017, 2018, and 2019, with a 2020 adventure planned before COVID intervened. Her programs welcome not just students but also family members, creating intergenerational learning opportunities.
Gibson's motivation stems partly from her own background as a first-generation college student without access to international travel. She creates comprehensive handbooks and preparation sessions, ensuring even students who've never flown before feel comfortable venturing abroad.
"Part of my job is to help people see the world, and that will change them in positive ways," Gibson explains, referencing a quote from the late chef Anthony Bourdain: "Travel changes you."
Her trips provide students with unforgettable experiences—riding gondolas in Venice, exploring the Colosseum in Rome, relaxing on Barcelona's beaches, and seeing the Eiffel Tower rising above the clouds from a Swiss mountain.
For faculty considering leading similar experiences, Gibson offers encouragement: "I know it might feel daunting to lead a trip like this and to be responsible. But I think we have lots of resources at PennWest to help you."
The impact of these journeys extends far beyond sightseeing, offering transformative perspectives that reshape how students understand both the world and themselves.
At PennWest, students interested in seeing the world can find faculty-led trips planned well in advance, with comprehensive support throughout the process. As Dr. Gibson emphasizes, "Being able to help students see other parts of the world changes them in terms of how they experience the world, how they look at our own country and our own history and culture." These transformative experiences remain one of PennWest's most powerful educational opportunities.