A Strong Summer Turnout in UC Davis International Programs
“I arrived here hopeful that I could discover my passion and career path—I left with the clear objective of pursuing an animal science degree at UC Davis,” said Manuela Vernazza a high school student from Spain.
Manuela is one of more than 580 students from around the world who arrived at UC Davis this summer to experience college life, gain new skills and build global connections.
Students from Japan, China, South Korea, Turkey, Taiwan, Panama, Canada, the United Arab Emirates, Kazakhstan and other countries participated in this summer’s programs. They included international undergraduates in Short-Term Content-Based Programs, educators in TEFL training, and high school students—like Manuela—exploring academic interests and future careers.
Why International Students Choose UC Davis
For international students choosing to study abroad in the United States, UC Davis offers security and charm with a small-town feel. Centrally located in Northern California, Davis’ proximity to major cities like San Francisco and Sacramento—and to landmarks including Yosemite, Napa Valley and Lake Tahoe—gives students easy access to exploring the diversity of California. The campus is known for its open space and connection to nature with a walkable, bike-friendly lifestyle that supports study.
With its strong academic reputation and welcoming environment, UC Davis continues to attract international students eager to experience everything this world-class institution has to offer. This summer, our youth programs welcomed students from around the world, providing them with the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in college life and culture.
Youth Programs that Inspire Future Scholars
A distinct part of our International Programs is extending access to UC Davis resources and expertise to high school students.
Two standout programs in particular—one with our sister city, Sangju, South Korea, and the other with our Pre-College Program open to American and international high school students—highlighted the strength of our international partnerships and the impact of our diverse educational offerings.
Fostering Cultural Exchange Through Sister Cities
Sangju, a rural community like Davis, is a bicycle-friendly college town rich in agriculture. Famous for producing rice, silkworm cocoons and dried persimmons, Sangju has been sending students to participate in the Sangju High School Communication and Culture Custom Program at UC Davis since 2017. This year, seven high schools sent 16-year-olds to take language classes at UC Davis and live in the campus dorms.
“Being on the university campus was something special for them,” said Juhwan Park, a Sangju city official and program chaperone. “Seeing all the foreigners and taking English lessons at UC Davis was a great opportunity for them to discover the opposite side of the world.”
During the program students spent five days at UC Davis developing their communication skills, and several days touring California, including San Francisco and Los Angeles. They also received honorary citizenship certificates from Davis City Hall—a true highlight of the program.
“Thanks to this UC Davis summer break program, 20 of Sangju’s students are motivated to continue learning English. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event,” he added.
Real College Experiences, Real Impact
“UC Davis offered the perfect opportunity to explore my passion for veterinary medicine in a hands-on and meaningful way,” said Mia Jaramillo, a rising junior from Panama, who participated in the Equine Science Pre-College Program. “I got a taste of college life and met wonderful people who made the experience even better.”
Mateo Vernazza of Spain also gained deep experience in his area of interest, even getting the opportunity to bring his business ideas to life in the Startup Entrepreneurship Program.
“I stepped into the program looking for knowledge in entrepreneurship, seeking new tools and good mentors,” he said. “I finished with way more than that. I left with friends and diverse perspectives, countless emotions, exciting memories and wanting to learn more about the business world.”
For international youth, like Mia and Mateo, who have advanced English proficiency, our domestic, academically rigorous Summer Pre-College Programs allow them to explore their passions and prepare for future success in U.S. higher education.
This summer, nearly 20 high school students from seven countries got a hands-on introduction to college, exploring subject areas in which UC Davis is an international powerhouse such as equine science, pre-med, coffee and more. Students attended classes taught by UC Davis professors, worked in cutting-edge university labs and bunked with roommates in campus residence halls—all while learning more about a potential career.
A coffee enthusiast, Canadian student Wenyu Chen enrolled in the Chemical Engineering with Coffee Program to explore UC Davis and its renowned Coffee Center. “The food, dorms and campus environment were all excellent! The entire schedule for the two weeks was very fulfilling and entertaining,” she said. “Teachers were nice and meticulous during class, and they were always willing to answer our questions.”
Lyra Cai, a rising senior from China who participated in the Pre-Med Program, was able to get a firsthand look at what a career in medicine could look like. “What impressed me most was the field trip to the medical school, which was my first real introduction to the field of medicine,” she said. “It served as a ‘job experience’ for me, helping me clarify my plan.”
Building Lasting Global Connections
This summer’s strong turnout highlights more than just the popularity of UC Davis’ international programs—it reflects the university’s ongoing commitment to connecting students from around the world with exceptional academic opportunities and welcoming campus experiences.
With another successful summer behind us, we’re looking forward to welcoming more international learners eager to explore, connect and grow.