Jori Benson, a graduate student and key member of the Western Michigan Broncos football team, recently returned from a nine‑day faculty‑led study‑abroad trip to Spain that was carefully timed to fit around his athletic commitments.
Study‑Abroad Meets the Gridiron
The program, titled "Business, Culture and Sustainability in Spain," combined classroom sessions with on‑the‑ground explorations of Spanish markets, renewable‑energy projects and local enterprises. Because the itinerary was condensed into a single week, Benson could attend lectures and field trips without missing practices or games, allowing him to maintain his dual focus on sport and scholarship.
During his stay, Benson observed how Spanish companies integrate environmental responsibility into their business models, gaining perspectives that he plans to bring back to campus discussions on sustainable athletics and campus operations. Interacting with peers and professionals from diverse backgrounds also broadened his worldview, reinforcing the value of curiosity as a driver of personal and career growth.
Benson now urges fellow student‑athletes to consider similar short‑term programs that align with their training schedules, emphasizing that the experience can complement both academic performance and athletic development. He credits the trip with sharpening his analytical skills and expanding his network, factors he believes will prove advantageous in his future professional endeavors.
The Western Michigan University community celebrates Benson’s achievement as a model of how student‑athletes can leverage unique opportunities abroad while staying on track with their academic and sporting goals. His story highlights the university’s commitment to fostering global competence alongside athletic excellence.