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Alessandro CesaranoProfessor, Foreign LanguagesPhone: 2394326602Extension: 16602Location: LEE L-102E-Mail:   Areas of Expertise EducationAssessment And Evaluation In EducationCurriculumEducation ResearchForeign LanguageItalianLearning Languages And EducationPedagogySpanishLanguage/literacy/linguisticsLinguisticsLearning (see Also Education)E-learningExperiential LearningLanguage LearningLearning And EducationTeaching And LearningTechnologyTechnology Education Rebecca QuimbyAdjunct FacultyPhone: Extension: Location: L-102E-Mail:   Areas of Expertise ArtEducationAdult Education Heather OlsonDir., Online Teaching & Learning ExperiencePhone: 2394338034Extension: 11634Location: LEE G-100E-Mail: Vitae   Areas of Expertise EducationPedagogyEmotional IntelligenceEmotional HealthEnglishComposition And Rhetoric English EducationLiteracy And Literacy StudiesLearning (see Also Education)Distance LearningE-learningLearning EnvironmentProfessional LearningTeaching And LearningPsychology

Dean's List

Fall 2025 Dean's List A-E F-L M-R S-Z Archive Spring 2025 Dean's ListFall 2024 Dean's ListSpring 2024 Dean's List

Test Prep Information

Are you preparing for the SAT or other college access test? Are you aiming to qualify for Bright Futures? Florida SouthWestern State College offers a dynamic 8-week SAT Prep Program designed to build your skills, boost your confidence, and improve your scores! This course is ideal for high school students ready to take their test prep seriously in a supportive, structured environment. Click here for more information about upcoming sessions.Free Test Prep and Study Tools – Now Available!Preparing for college-level coursework or placement exams? Take advantage of FSW’s free, college-hosted Test Preparation and Study Resources Lib Guide—a one-stop hub designed to support Accelerated Pathways/Dual Enrollment students in achieving academic success.What You’ll Find:Study guides for PERT, Accuplacer, SAT, ACT, and moreSubject-specific resources for math, reading, and writingTime management tools and academic skills supportDirect access to free practice tests and tutorialsThese curated tools are provided by FSW faculty and librarians to help you build confidence, improve performance, and make the most of your Dual Enrollment experience—all at no cost to you.LibGuideYour success starts with the right tools. Start preparing today! Placement Testing PreRemediation Resource FlyerSAT Prep Program at FSW – 8 WeeksFlorida SouthWestern State College offers a dynamic 8-week SAT Prep Program designed to build your skills, boost your confidence, and improve your scores! This course is ideal for high school students ready to take their test prep seriously in a supportive, structured environment. Click here for more information about upcoming sessions.

Anonymous Tips

This form may be used by anyone wishing to make an anonymous report regarding criminal activity or persons exhibiting suspicious behavior. This is NOT a formal report. The Department of Campus Police strongly encourages anyone having witnessed a crime or suspicious behavior to make a formal report. Anonymous tips are helpful and greatly appreciated, but are no substitute for a formal report. To make a formal report, please call: Lee campus – 239-489-9203 Collier campus – 239-732-3712 Charlotte campus – 941-637-5608 Hendry-Glades Center – 863-674-6017 * Denotes a required field Observation / Description of Incident Incident Time Incident Date Incident Location Campus Please Select Charlotte Collier Hendry/Glades Lee Description * 1500 characters remaining (at least 50 required) Would you like to discuss the matter? If so, an officer will contact you as soon as possible (be sure to provide your contact information). If you do not wish to meet with on Officer, the report will be considered anonymous. Anonymous submissions will not receive intentional follow-up. Contact Option Follow-up Anonymous Contact Information (Required for follow-up) Title Please Select Mr. Mrs. Ms. Miss Last Name Suffix Please Select Sr. Jr. I II III IV First Name MI Email Affiliation Please Select Student Faculty/Staff Non-Affiliated/Other Home Address Office Address Home Phone Office Phone Cell Phone Please enter the security code * Refresh Image This form is not a criminal report. Please note that information you provide may be shared with, but not limited to, the Dean of Students, police, state and federal agencies, and others where applicable and permitted by law.

Safety Videos

Sexual Assault

College CommitmentFlorida SouthWestern State College is committed to maintaining an educational and work environment in which no member of the College community is excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination or harassment in any College program or activity on the basis of race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, gender identity, pregnancy, genetic information or veteran's status. Gender-based and sexual harassment, including sexual violence, are forms of sex discrimination which in the educational environment may deny or limit an individual’s ability to participate in or benefit from College programs or activities.The College is committed to providing programs, activities, and an educational environment free from sex discrimination. The College is committed to fostering a community that promotes prompt reporting of all types of sexual misconduct and timely and fair resolution of sexual misconduct complaints. In furtherance of that commitment, this guide sets forth available resources and establishes procedures for responding to complaints of sexual misconduct.

Student of Concern

Documenting your concerns to others with the appropriate department can help you determine how to respond (for example, by referring a student for counseling, Care Services, Early Alert, informing the Dean of Students or consulting with FSW Campus Police), and provide additional context for the situation.Something which may be difficult to interpret in isolation may take on a different level of importance when seen in light of other documented incidents (whether documented by you at other points in time, or documented by others who work with the individual in different contexts).Some individuals will exhibit behaviors that interfere with their academic, career or personal success, but are not likely to indicate a risk to life and safety.What to do: Often you can help students exhibiting concerning behaviors by asking some basic questions, listening, providing the student with information and making referrals to campus resources to help them. You can take proactive steps to help a student follow through and make contact while still letting the decision to seek help reside with the student. If the student does not seem to be responding to your guidance, you may report students of concern through one of the following avenues:Care ServicesCare Services addresses student behavioral concerns that are inconsistent with the College’s mission. The members of this team act with a common purpose to address critical student behavioral or mental health concerns through review of situations/incidents, information gathering and sharing, and providing recommendations to ensure the safety and educational success of the student. Care Services does not replace other classroom management or disciplinary processes nor does it address student behaviors that require immediate health, police or mental health attention. The success of this process hinges on the College’s commitment to reporting concerns about potential threat of violence or concerning behavior. For more information please visit Care Services website.Campus PoliceThe Department of Campus Police is committed to providing a safe, secure, and orderly environment in which learning, working, and administrative operations of the College have the opportunity to excel. The safety of our campuses is a cooperative effort of students, faculty, staff and visitors and all of us must assume responsibility for our own personal safety as well as the protection of our personal and college property. The Department of Campus Police strongly encourages anyone having witnessed a crime or suspicious behavior to make a report. For more information please visit Campus Police website.Early AlertEarly Alert is an intervention system designed to identify, reach out, and provide support to students who are experiencing challenges or having difficulty with their coursework. The Early Alert program is a collaborative effort among faculty, staff, and administrators with the goal of increased student retention and success. The success of this process hinges on the College’s commitment to reporting concerns. If you have students in your class who are in jeopardy of not succeeding or in need of additional support, please visit the Early Alert website to learn more.

Hurricane Season Information

Hurricane SeasonJune 1 - November 30As we begin this potentially tumultuous time of year, FSW wants you to be aware and prepared.FSW has procedures in place to keep its campus community safe. Depending on the anticipated severity of a storm, the college may be required to evacuate its campuses for a hurricane. While this is not a common occurrence, it is imperative that students and employees develop a personal evacuation plan now and be ready to implement that plan if a storm threatens the area. Once an evacuation is ordered, all events and classes will be canceled.Staying InformedWhen a Tropical Storm or Hurricane threatens one of our campuses, FSW will alert our students and employees through local news media sources, College social media accounts (@FSWCollege), and the FSW homepage as well as the Emergency Notification System which includes telephone messages, texts, and email notifications. Important!The Emergency Notification System uses the contact information you have provided to the college. It will only work if you keep your Personal Emergency Contact Information (PDF) up-to-date. Take a moment now to update your information. FSW has a Public Health Resources web page that shares various national and community hyperlinks pertaining to your overall health and safety. Two of those links lead to more detailed information about hurricane preparedness and response. The link that takes you to the National Weather Service page has important videos to help you prepare for a hurricane.Simple Ways to Stay InformedCheck your FSW email regularly.Make sure your information is up-to-date with FSW to receive alerts.Follow FSW on Facebook @FSWCOLLEGE.Follow the National Hurricane Center on Facebook & Twitter @NWSNHC or @NHC_ATLANTIC.The Campus Police web page has other “Quick Links” that contain other helpful information like: an All Hazards Guide, Tropical Cyclone Preparedness Guide and other various links to weather and storm tracking sites. Any decision to close campuses and/or cancel classes will be made in a timely manner by the Emergency Management Team receiving regular updates from FSW Campus Police as they monitor storm activity.Lighthouse Commons ResidentsIn the event that a hurricane may impact our immediate area, resident students will be notified to vacate the campus and those without a place to go will be asked to stay at a nearby shelter. Resident students living at Light House Commons are encouraged to review their Housing Residential Living Guide found on the Housing webpage.Please review this important information to become as aware and prepared as possible for the upcoming season!Email: FSW Campus PoliceContact UsPhone: 239-489-9203 Hours of Operation 24 hours a day / 7 days a week Except Hendry/Glades Curtis CenterLee Campus8099 College Parkway Fort Myers, Florida 33919Building D, Room 101Charlotte Campus26300 Airport Road Punta Gorda, Florida 33950Building N, Room 105Collier Campus7505 Grand Lely Drive Naples, Florida 34113Building A, Room 100Hendry/Glades Curtis Center1092 E. Cowboy Way LaBelle, FL 33935Building A, Room 118

Parking and Traffic Information

Traffic RegulationsParking at Florida SouthWestern State College is regulated to provide for the safe flow of traffic, avoiding property damage (i.e., parking on the grass may damage irrigation systems) and providing access for handicapped persons, emergency vehicles and authorized persons in certain areas. Each campus has adequate parking available. Parking is permitted only in marked parking spaces. Please be aware of parking in restricted lots/spaces which are appropriately marked with signs. Campus maps and parking lot signs indicate where drivers may park. Students are prohibited from parking in designated staff lots. Designated disabled parking spaces are reserved for persons who are permanently disabled. To use these spaces, students must have a special handicap permit issued by the local county license tag office. Overnight Parking is prohibited, unless Campus Police Department has received prior notification. The absence of "No Parking" signs does not mean that parking is allowed. Parking on the grass, along roadways, drives, curbs, sidewalks or ramps is prohibited. Parking is permitted only in paved lots or in designated parking areas. Vehicles must be parked within marked spaces. Parking diagonally or taking up two parking spaces is not permitted. The speed limit on campus is 30 m.p.h. unless otherwise posted. Speed limit in all parking lots or service drives is 5 m.p.h. To this end campus police officers on all Florida SouthWestern State College campuses enforce the following violations:Parking on the grassParking in restricted areas (i.e., sidewalks, roadways, crosswalks, etc)Parking/occupying more than one parking spaceBlocking an entrance, driveway, loading dockParking in a no parking/restricted parking space/lot (without permit)LitteringParking in Fire LanesParking in front of fire hydrantParking in a handicapped designated parking area (without permit)FinesViolations 1 thru 8 face a fine of $15.00 and Violation 9, Parking in handicapped area has a fine of $50.00. Fines are paid at the campus cashier’s offices. Unpaid fines will result in holds on transcripts, diplomas or registration for classes. Students who receive parking citations must pay the appropriate fine to the Florida SouthWestern State College Cashiers Office within 14 working days.Parking Ticket AppealsIf a student wishes to appeal a ticket for violating campus traffic regulations, they should fill out the Parking Citation Appeal, either on Buc Corner or by submitting the form to the Office of Student Engagement in building Q-127. The Student Government Association's Traffic Court will contact the student within 7 business days with a final decision after confirmation that the traffic court received the form. If the Traffic Court requires additional information, they will contact the student to arrange a hearing. The Traffic Court may uphold, modify, or overturn the ticket violation. If you have any questions, please email SGA@fsw.edu or engage@fsw.edu.Parking Citation Appeal: https://fsw.presence.io/form/parking-citation-appealsUniform Traffic CitationsMoving violations, i.e., speeding, reckless driving, etc. may be investigated by campus police or referred to the respective sheriff’s office.Campus law enforcement officers may also issue state Uniform Traffic Citations for violations occurring on our campuses. These cases are handled thru the county Clerk of Courts offices:Lee County: http://www.leeclerk.org/Charlotte County: http://www.co.charlotte.fl.usCollier County: http://www.collierclerk.com/Hendry County: http://www.hendryclerk.org

Crime and Fire Log

The Department of Campus Police maintains a Crime and Fire Log listing a summary of all criminal, fire and other incidents that may cause concern to the campus community. These include crimes, fires and other incidents occurring on campus, in or on non-campus buildings or property, or on public property immediately adjacent to and accessible from the campus or within the patrol jurisdiction and reported to Campus Police. The log lists the date, time reported, time occurred, general location, and disposition of the complaint if this information is known at the time the log is created. Certain information may temporarily be withheld to protect a victim or maintain the integrity of an in-progress criminal investigation. A separate fire log is maintained for fires occurring within Light House Commons residence hall, as required by the Clery Act and those records are combined into this log. All of these records are compiled in the Annual Security Report and Annual Fire Report (to include crime and fire statistics) into one publication entitled the Campus Safety Guide (PDF).Current Crime Log2026 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)2025 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)2024 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)2023 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)2022 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)Archived Crime Logs2021 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)2020 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)2019 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)2018 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)2017 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)2016 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)2015 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)2014 Crime and Fire Log (PDF)

Public Health Resources

Your health and safety is important to us! We remind all students, faculty and staff to use common sense tips to stay healthy. If you are feeling ill we encourage you to see a doctor and take time off if necessary. At this time Florida SouthWestern State College does not have an on-campus health clinic. For your convenience we've compiled links to area health departments and health related web sites:Public Health Warning NotificationsCoronavirus/COVID-19 InformationHurricane Emergency Preparedness and ResponseHurricanes and Other Tropical Storms (CDC)Hurricane Preparedness (National Weather Service)Lightning Safety Tips and ResourcesLightning Safety (National Weather Service)Lightning (CDC)County/State/Federal Health InformationLee County Health DepartmentCharlotte County Health DepartmentCollier County Health DepartmentHendry County Health DepartmentGlades County Health DepartmentFlorida Department of HealthFlorida Department of EducationThe Official U.S. Government Web site for Pandemic InfluenzaInjury Prevention & Control: Prescription Drug OverdoseThe Centers for Disease ControlU.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesSuicide: Prevention Strategies (CDC)Helpful LinksCampus PoliceCare Services

General Information

FSW students in Florence, Italy Summer 2024 FSW Study Abroad The Center for International Education (CIE) at Florida SouthWestern State College (FSW) invites you to participate in a study abroad experience. FSW offers several types of study abroad programs. You will find each type offered on the following pages.Through study abroad, students gain enhanced perspectives of the world, learn about new cultures, gain a deeper awareness of themselves, and make lifelong friends around the world. Many students have reported that their study abroad experience has had a transformative impact on their life. Faculty-Led Trips These classes typically take place during the Summer Mini-A term, including study abroad travel for 10-14 days. The faculty will remain with the students for the duration of the trip and will often be accompanied by a local guide. Students can expect to be moving around and will experience different locations, venues and educational destinations within the country. These are the shortest and most affordable programs. Please be sure to check eligibility for all study abroad programs.FSW in ItalyThis is a partnership program between FSW and Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM) in Florence, Italy. Students will choose one FSW course and begin it on campus at the start of Summer Mini-A. In late May the professor and class will travel to Florence, Italy. Once abroad, students will continue their FSW class and begin a 4-week class selected from the extensive LdM catalog. All classes will include educational excursions within and around Florence. Students will live in a shared apartment and may travel independently outside of Florence during weekends. Both classes will conclude at the end of June and students will return home.Intensive Spanish Language in SpainThis is a partnership program between FSW and the International College of Seville, located in southwestern Spain. In this program, students will take both Level I and II of either Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced Spanish. This 4-week program includes intensive coursework (earning 6 credits) and excursions to nearby cities. The student will choose between living with a host family, or more independently in a casita with a visiting house mother; all meals are provided in either arrangement.Semester Study AbroadStudents may choose to study anywhere in the world for a fall, spring or summer term with an outside organization who offers programs to college students throughout the world. Although students can choose to study through any provider, we provide a short list where you can begin your search. Please visit the Semester Study Abroad page.Dual Enrolled StudentsHigh School students who are dual enrolled at FSW may participate in study abroad programs. To be eligible, they must have earned at least 24 credits by the start of the trip, be 18 years old and have a valid passport. All dual enrolled students must be approved to study abroad by the Director of Accelerated Pathways.Program Dates & CostCourse and study abroad travel dates are tentative until all logistics are confirmed. Student cost is estimated and will be confirmed at a later date. Non-FSW or transient students participating in FSW study abroad programs may have different costs associated with FSW programs. For more information please contact the Center for International Education at International.Education@fsw.edu. PaymentThe Center for International Education requires a deposit to reserve your space in the study abroad course. A payment schedule will be provided to each student upon admission to the program. Program payments will be refunded through March 1.Study Abroad Application and Required FormsStudents interested in applying to FSW faculty-led, FSW in Italy at LdM, or Non-FSW study abroad programs are required to submit the below application materials to International.Education@fsw.edu or deliver by hand to the Center for International Education, Building I, Suite 114, Thomas Edison (Lee) Campus. Study Abroad ApplicationFERPA Form (PDF)Unofficial transcript with completed coursework (this can be found in your FSW portal)Current class scheduleCopy of the photo page of your passport Program Eligibility and SelectionPriority consideration will be given to FSW students enrolling in courses that are required for degree completion. Students who have previously studied abroad with FSW will be considered based on space availability.If a student has already received credit for a course, they cannot retake the course in order to participate in a study abroad experience.Other program requirements include the following: Minimum 2.8 GPA for FSW in Italy or a minimum 2.5 GPA for FSW faculty-led programs.Completion of pre-requisites for the selected study abroad course (if applicable). In some cases, students may be asked to speak with the study abroad faculty leader in order to be approved for participation.Study Abroad Student Code of ConductEach student, by registering for courses, pledges to accept and abide by the rules and regulations of the College. Students are responsible for the observance of all policies and procedures as published in the College Catalog, the Student Handbook, Board of Trustees Policies, and other College documents to include the Student Code of Conduct.As noted in the Student Code of Conduct, the Chief Student Affairs Officer is authorized to determine if an alleged violation of the Student Code of Conduct warrants interim action. Interim actions may be implemented any time prior to the conclusion of the conduct process, including the appeals process. During a study abroad experience, faculty leaders have full authority to enact interim actions in cases where immediate contact with the Chief Student Affairs Officer is unavailable. The faculty’s interim action will be in place until such time that the Chief Student Affairs Officer can be successfully contacted. In cases warranting interim suspension, students may be prohibited from participating in scheduled activities and required to remain at the host site with one or more college-approved chaperones, or may be required to return to the United States before the scheduled departure. Students being asked to return due to a code of conduct violation may be responsible for the financial cost of the unanticipated travel (i.e. the ticket home) that results from disciplinary action.

2026 FSW Study Abroad Programs

The Center for International Education at Florida SouthWestern State College invites you to participate in a study abroad experience. Through study abroad, students gain enhanced perspectives of the world, learn about new cultures, gain a deeper awareness of themselves, and make lifelong friends around the world. Costa RicaGlobal Perspectives of Health Service-Learning Program Dean Susan Holland & Professor Cassie Billian (Lee Campus) 13 Days $2,800.00 The Global Perspectives in Health Service Learning Program is a 2-week in-country immersion, service-learning program in Costa Rica and is designed to broaden student perception and understanding of health beliefs and practices. Students will expand their understanding of the impact of cultural differences on health with comparisons of differences between the United States and Costa Rica.Click HERE for program flyerENT 2271: Launching Your Business Four-week Program (mid-July through mid-August) $3,500.00 plus airfareThis program is offered in partnership with the Technical University of Berlin. Students will participate in a Startup course designed to teach students how to successfully launch their own business beginning with ideation, business development, and pitching to investors. Credits earned at TU Berlin will transfer back to FSW as ENT 2271: Launching Your Business.Click HERE for program flyerIcelandIDS 2891: CREATIVE Capstone in Iceland Dr. Mary Schultz (Lee Campus or Live Flex) 10 Days $2,900Embark on an unforgettable study abroad experience in Iceland, one of the world’s most unique and happiest countries! In this course, IDS 2891, students will design, create, and reflect on a project that explores the theme of “Pursuits of Happiness”. Prerequisites: 30 credits, ENC 1101 & 1102 (SPC 1017 or SPC02608 could replace ENC 1102).Click HERE for program flyerItalyDEP 2004: Lifespan Development Dr. Leslie Bartley (Lee Campus or Live Flex) Four-week program (month of June) $4,000 Discover the essence of human growth and development in the heart of Florence, Italy! The Lifespan Development course offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the developmental changes over the lifespan while immersing yourself in the rich history, art, and culture of one of the world’s most inspiring cities.Click HERE for program flyerLIT 2000: Introduction to Literature – Italian Love Poetry Dr. Brandi George (Lee Campus or Live Flex) Four-week program (month of June) $4,000 In this course, students will study Italian love poetry from Ovid through the late Renaissance. Our study of Italian love poetry will include visits to important cultural and artistic sites, including the Duomo, the Uffizi, Palazzo Vecchio, and the Boboli Gardens. In addition to analyzing these literary works, students will also create their own love poetry at inspiring historic locations in Florence.Click HERE for program flyerSpainSpanish Language at the International College of Seville Four-week program (month of June) $4,000 plus airfare Students will travel independently to Seville, Spain. The intensive Spanish language program includes two language courses at the International College of Seville. Earn six credits in beginning, intermediate, or advanced levels. Choice of a homestay with a Spanish family or a shared apartment with other students. Click HERE for program flyer United KingdomLIT 2000: Introduction to Literature Dr. Scott Ortolano (Lee Campus or Live Flex) 12 Days $2,900Harry Potter and Historical Fiction invites students to embark on a transformative journey through the landscapes and literary legacies of Scotland and England. Against the backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, Edinburgh, and London, students will explore how imagination and place shape storytelling.Click HERE for program flyerMUL 1010: Music Appreciation Dr. Scott Courtney (Lee Campus or Live Flex) 12 Days $2,900Embark on a transformative journey through the musical landscapes of Scotland and England with our immersive study abroad program. This unique experience blends music appreciation with cultural exploration, offering students the chance to engage with diverse musical traditions firsthand.Click HERE for program flyer

Semester Study Abroad

Portofino, ItalyYou must be a full-time FSW student and have completed at least one semester of coursework with a 2.0+ GPA in order to participate in a semester study abroad program. You can earn college credit at an institution in another country if the course(s) are approved by submitting a Study Abroad Course Credit Approval Petition. Since FSW does not offer semester programs in other countries, you would need to enroll in a program offered by another US university/college or organization in order to get transfer credit. If credits are not offered through a US university/college, FSW would require that you obtain a transcript through the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).FSW does not have an officially approved list of providers, however, we suggest students begin to explore the following recommended programs.Semester Study Abroad ProgramsCEA CAPACEA CAPA Study Abroad brings high-quality international academic programs and services to students. Along the way you’ll learn to communicate across cultures, gain independence, become self aware and achieve international understanding.CISAt CIS Abroad, we know you want to get into the local scene. With our La Vida Local program, you’ll experience local culture and life while participating in activities and organized events. Dive into it—that’s what study abroad is about!CCISThe College Consortium for International Studies is an education non-profit. Our mission is to make innovative and exciting study abroad programs more accessible. Our non-profit model offers programs that are on average, 30% less than providers.USACFor more than 35 years, University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) has provided students with affordable, valuable study abroad programs. We currently have more than 50 programs in 27 countries and students from any college or university are welcome to participate.FSW PartnersFSW Partner InstitutionsFSW has established partnerships with a number of international colleges and institutes. These partnerships offer you exciting opportunities in Italy, Spain and Austria. To learn more about studying at these international institutions, please click here.OtherOther Programs and ResourcesFSW students may choose to enroll in any accredited study abroad program that meets their cultural/personal interests. Additional study abroad programs and resources can be found at the following:DiversityAbroad.comStudyAbroad.comGoAbroad.comHow to Apply for Non-FSW Provider Programs (Transfer Credit)Find Your Destination by researching program providers.Discuss the country of your choice and the courses you are interested in taking with CIE staff. Before you apply to any program, you will need to make an appointment to meet with the Study Abroad Coordinator to discuss program details (deadlines, fees, tuition, housing), and to obtain signatures on your Study Abroad Course Approval Petition. Appointments can be made in person in the Center for International Education Office (I-114).Apply to your program provider by the provider's deadline and follow their instructions.Complete an FSW Pre-departure Orientation on Canvas. You will receive an invitation for this orientation after you have been accepted into a study abroad program.Study Abroad in your selected destination.Verify with your Program Provider that your transcripts will be sent to the FSW Registrar's Office before you return home.

Partnerships

The Center for International Education enriches FSW's community through the development of cross-institutional partnerships. Through these collaborations CIE intends to:Improve international understandingEnhance the development of joint educational and research projectsIncrease individual educational opportunitiesEnrich the educational environment of both institutionsPromote the exchange of teachers, researchers, and students for teaching and research partnershipsPromote reciprocal consultations and the exchange of teaching and learning materialsEngage in joint proposals for grants or awards to support research, teaching, training, and servicesFSW currently has established partnerships with the following institutions with plans to grow its global network of partners. Istituto Lorenzo de’ Medici (LdM)Istituto Lorenzo de' Medici (LdM) was founded in 1973 and is among Italy's most comprehensive and well established international institutions in higher education. Students can choose from a variety of courses available at LdM in Florence and Tuscania. Study abroad programs are available for a fall, spring or summer terms.FSW students attending orientation at LdM May 2022Salzburg College Since 1971, Salzburg College has provided an international education experience that combines classroom work and research with field experience, community involvement, and professional growth. The college offers study abroad programs for semester and summer terms across a range of academic disciplines. FSW students in Salzburg, Austria Summer 2022 International College of Seville (ICS)The International College of Seville (ICS) is a private, independent, cultural association whose basic aim is to serve as a center for the promotion of international education. ICS was founded in 1982 and provides a full range of academic advising and student services, as well as numerous activities designed to complement the academic program. FSW students in Seville, Spain Summer 2022

Financial Information

FSW FAFSA Many students who receive financial aid from FAFSA use the refund from their spring term to pay for their study abroad trip the following summer. If you want additional financial aid, you will need to be registered for at least six (6) credits toward your degree during the summer term.For more information on financial aid, contact financial.aid@fsw.edu or 239-489-9336. FSW ScholarshipsGo to www.fsw.edu/financialaid/scholarships to complete the FSW Scholarship Application to be considered for scholarships through the FSW Foundation Office. This page also contains links to state and federal grants.Outside Scholarships:Community Colleges for International Development ScholarshipRequires upload of document answering two application questions, plus one letter of recommendation. Scholarship Amount: $500.00 Students on every program are encouraged to applyFund for Education AbroadThe mission for the Fund for Education Abroad (FEA) is to provide scholarships and ongoing support to students who are underrepresented among the US study abroad population. Scholarship Range: Up to $1,250 (Summer), $5,000 (Semester), $10,000 (Full year). US citizens or permanent residents only. Must have already filled out the FASFA application.Benjamin A. Gilman International ScholarshipThe U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship is a grant program that enables students of limited financial means to study or intern abroad in order to prepare to participate in an increasingly global economy and interdependent world. Scholarship Range: Up to $5,000, average award is $4,000. Recipients must be U.S. citizens receiving Federal Pell Grant funding.Scholarship Application Tips – Pay Attention to:Eligibility RequirementsEliminate Specific Programs or InstitutionsApplication Deadline DatesRegister, Apply, and Submit All Required Documents on TimeKeep Track of Your Applications Scholarship Essay Writing TipsRead the instructions carefully! Every scholarship has its own specifications on eligibility, documents required with submission of your application, and specific questions you are to answer in your essay. You will very often see a package containing an online application, an official or unofficial transcript, a letter of recommendation, a financial aid form, and an essay with specific requirements. For the essay, pay attention to the number of character minimums and limits, formatting such as writing in paragraph form, and using or not using visual enhancements such as bold, underline or italics. Be clear and concise; short and strong. Decision makers are reading many essays. You want yours to stand out. The most competitive applications are those that have interesting and original essays.Be personal; tell your story. This may include family circumstances, how study abroad will enhance your future career goals and what sets you apart from other applicants. Tell them how you will use your study abroad experience to help others in your community, and perhaps, around the world. Tell them where you will be going and why you chose that location, that class, and the dates you will study abroad.Take your first draft to the FSW writing center. Make sure your spelling, punctuation and grammar are correct. Send requests for letters of recommendation early. Allow them enough time to respond to your request and write a quality, complimentary letter about you.Fill out your application and upload all required documents by the deadline.Keep track of your applications and the dates that the scholarships will be awarded.Make sure you allow e-mails from that organization so that correspondence and a potential award notification does not wind up in your spam box and you miss out on receiving your scholarship. 2024 FSW Study Abroad Scholarship WinnersJavier Tellez in Italy He was awarded $4,000.00 from the Gilman Scholarship "I always knew I wanted to study abroad when I started college. Italy was the program at first sight. I knew I wanted to join and boy did I have so much fun there. I learned so much about Italian culture, visited so many beautiful places like Venice, Rome and Milan. I did so many things like a wine tasting in Tuscany, jumped off a huge rock in Cinque Terre, prayed in the Vatican and saw a ton of art in the museums in Florence" "I am grateful for the Gilman Scholarship, as they took out a huge worry of mine and let me enjoy my time in Italy, going to crazy museums, eating a lot of Italian cuisine and explore more in depth the Italian culture, traditions and lifestyle." 2022 FSW Study Abroad Scholarship WinnersNavy Rubio studied in France She was awarded $500.00 from CCID “Studying abroad has been my dream since I began college. In Summer 2022, I was able to study abroad in France. I was able to experience the culture, learn a different language that will only benefit me in my future career, and I made the best friends! I cannot stress enough how important it is to apply to as many scholarships as possible to aid you with your trip! ”Kamari Gouin studied in Italy She was awarded $1,000.00 from the Fund for Education Abroad “Studying abroad has been one of the best decisions I've made in my academic career. While in Florence, Italy, I had the amazing opportunity of meeting new people, building new connections, and exploring new cities. I will forever look back on this experience with immense fondness."Maria Ducady studied in Italy She was awarded $4,000.00 from the Gilman Scholarship "Becoming a Gilman Scholar has given me the opportunity to fully enjoy and understand Italian culture. I got to explore Venice, eat delicious food in Florence, visit the Roman Colosseum, swim in Cinque Terre, and experience traditions thanks to the fund provided by the Benjamin Gilman scholarship. It gave me a sense of relief and opened many doors for intercultural exchange. I highly encourage anyone interested in studying abroad to apply to the Gilman scholarship because of the many benefits you get as a Gilman Scholar before, during, and after the program."Kaitlyn Flores studied in Italy She was awarded $4,000.00 from the Gilman Scholarship “This study abroad trip has enhanced my cultural views. I have experiences and friendships that I will hold for a lifetime. This is one of my favorite pictures of the trip because it emphasizes the beautiful Duomo, which I had the privilege to see every morning. Thanks to the Gilman scholarship, I was able to fully immerse myself in the Italian culture. I made it my goal to try different foods and explore the street markets. The field trips we went on helped me gain a better understanding of Florence's history, and I saw many historical landmarks."

International Students (F1 Visa)

Each year Florida SouthWestern State College welcomes students from different countries around the world. We are committed to helping international students fulfill their educational goals and make a smooth transition into a new culture and learning environment. The Office of Admissions will assist you throughout the admission process with orientation to the college, with your degree completion and with various career opportunities and more.You will find here information on a wide range of topics such as; admission steps, visa questions, health insurance, housing, and other resources that Florida SouthWestern State College has to offer. Our goal is to make your experience at Florida SouthWestern State College an outstanding one.Apply NowApplication DeadlinesDue to the additional processing time required for international students, application and supporting documents should be submitted as early as possible. Please review the deadlines published annually in the academic calendar to ensure appropriate processing time.Note: Summer applicants must take a full course load (12 credits) in the summer, fall and spring, before they are eligible for an optional summer term in the following year.

Contact Us

Office Location: 8099 College Parkway Suite I-114 Fort Myers, FL 33919Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8:30am - 4:30pmGeneral inquiries can be sent to International.Education@fsw.edu.Michael Messina Director, International Education (239) 477-3594 Michael.Messina@fsw.edu

Faculty

Dr. Scott Ortolano in Italy, Summer 2024Dr. Leslie Bartley in Ireland, Summer 2024Florida SouthWestern State College invites full-time faculty and administrators credentialed to teach to submit proposals to lead or co-lead a short-term study abroad program, or to submit a proposal to teach a summer course with a one-month travel abroad component in Italy at our partner institution Lorenzo de' Medici.Please contact Michael.Messina@fsw.edu to request the study abroad course proposal form. All proposals must be approved by the department chair and academic dean.Eligibility Requirements:Full-time faculty and administrators credentialed to teach may apply. Proposals from all FSW campuses is encouraged.All training is required to participate in international travel with students.Participation in planning meetings with Center for International Education staff is an expectation.Faculty agree to FSW's commitment of duty to care.Secondary Coverage:In an effort align FSW study abroad program to international education best practices, efforts will be made to provide secondary coverage on all faculty-led programs that have been selected with only one faculty leader when necessary. Selection of a second faculty leader or FSW appointed designee will vary according to each program. The following will be taken into consideration:Program size, location, and local on-the-ground support.Visa requirements to enter the country.Academic department recommendations.FSW and Center for International Education initiatives.No secondary coverage is required for the FSW in Italy program. Proposal Review:All proposals for FSW study abroad programs will be reviewed by a selection committee consisting of members from academic affairs, former faculty study abroad leaders, international education staff, and members from the international education advisory council. Proposals will be reviewed using an evaluation rubric designed to determine the strength and feasibility for each course proposed to be taught abroad. Proposals may be tentatively approved with recommendations made by the selection committee. The total number of proposals selected may be determined based on the maximum number of courses that can be supported by the Center for International Education.FSW Faculty-led Course Proposal Due Date: Friday, January, 30, 2026The Center for International Education invites full-time faculty and administrators credentialed to teach to submit course proposals for short-term faculty-led programs. Proposals are general in nature and specific details such as the course syllabus, detailed budgets, and other travel logistics are not required at this time. Please note that by submitting this form, you are only proposing to lead a study abroad program. You will be required to submit a formal program proposal with a complete itinerary if your course is selected by the committee. Download Faculty-led Rubric (PDF)FSW in Italy at LdM Course Proposal Due Date: Friday, January, 30, 2026The Center for International Education invites full-time faculty and administrators credentialed to teach to submit course proposals for FSW summer courses with a one-month (June or July), long-term travel abroad component in Italy. In order to achieve the College's strategic initiative of expanding International Education, it is expected that faculty who teach FSW courses with long-term travel abroad will commit to sharing their experiences through faculty mentoring or in curricular and co-curricular activities such as during International Education Week, through FSW colloquia, or TLC workshops. Students enrolling in the FSW course will also have the opportunity to enroll in an additional course at our partner institute, Lorenzo de' Medici. Please note that by submitting this form, you are only proposing to lead a study abroad program. You will be required to submit additional information if your course is selected by the committee. Download FSW in Italy at LdM Rubric (PDF)Study Abroad Incident Reporting FormThis form is intended for faculty leaders and chaperones on FSW study abroad programs who need to report an incident while abroad. Upon submitting this form it will be routed to the Center for International Education for follow-up.