Donna Sharpes began her employment at JMU in 1999, working in the Center for Global Engagement (CGE) with international students and then at the Center for Multicultural Student Services. During this period, she gained experience and knowledge in visa regulations for international students, JMU study abroad programs, diversity issues, the need for international awareness and tolerance and college student support on campus.

In 2005 she returned to the CGE working first as the Enrollment Coordinator and now as Study Abroad Advisor. Donna works with students interested in all programs going abroad and enjoys helping students find that special fit that meets their location desires and academic goals. Although she discusses all program options with students, she works closely with those who are going through External Providers, advising on transfer credit procedures, assisting with consortium agreements and preparing students through the orientation process before they leave on their programs.  

Her own experiences abroad include participating in a JMU alternative spring break trip to the Dominican Republic, site visits to our JMU Semester Programs in Salamanca, Florence, London, Scotland and Antwerp, and familiarization visits with External Provider programs in Costa Rica, Argentina, South Korea, Australia, China, Singapore, Cuba, France and Ireland.

Donna loves to hear stories from returning students about their experiences abroad. Most often they say... "It was the best experience of my life!"