Study Abroad 101
A clear, encouraging walkthrough of how global learning actually works — program types, timelines, credits, and first steps.
Available for speaking
International educator helping students go global
Cara Miller is a higher education professional in the DePaul University Study Abroad office, where she guides students toward international learning experiences and the scholarships that make them possible. She brings that same clarity and warmth to keynotes, workshops, and panels.
About
Making global learning feel possible
Cara works in international education at DePaul University, advising students on how to study abroad, which programs fit their goals, and how to fund the experience through scholarships and financial aid. Day to day she translates a process that feels overwhelming into concrete, doable steps.
On stage she does the same thing for audiences: demystifying global education, making the case for access and equity, and showing students, families, and campus partners what an international experience can unlock — academically, personally, and professionally.
Higher educationStudy abroad advisingScholarships & fundingStudent successCross-cultural learningGlobal program design
Speaking topics
Talks that move students from curious to enrolled
Funding the Journey
Scholarships, aid, and budgeting strategies that turn 'I could never afford that' into a realistic plan.
Access & Equity Abroad
Why international education still misses too many students, and what advisors and institutions can change.
Advising Through Transition
Supporting students before, during, and after time abroad — culture shock, identity, and re-entry.
Campus Buy-In for Global Programs
Building faculty and administrator support for education abroad initiatives that last.
From Abroad to Career
Helping students name and market the global skills employers are actually looking for.
Audiences
Who Cara speaks to
- Colleges & universities
- High schools & college-access programs
- International education conferences
- Student organizations
- Professional associations
- Parent & family programs
Formats
How she shows up
- Keynote
- 30–60 minutes, plus Q&A
- Workshop
- 60–120 minutes, hands-on
- Panel
- Moderator or panelist
- Webinar
- Live or recorded, virtual
- Campus visit
- Multi-session day on site
Praise
What organizers say
“Cara made study abroad feel like something our students could actually do — not a luxury. Our application numbers reflected it.”
Midwest university
“The scholarship session was the most practical hour of our conference. Students left with a plan, not just inspiration.”
International education association
“Warm, funny, and genuinely knowledgeable. Families asked questions they'd been too intimidated to ask before.”
Liberal arts college
Sample placeholder quotes — swap in real testimonials when available.
Booking
Invite Cara to your event
Share a few details about your audience and date. Cara replies to every inquiry personally, usually within a few business days.