MSU VIPP

09/09/2026

“By the end of this three-week journey, I felt like I had a foot in two worlds: the one I grew up in and the one I had the opportunity to learn about and become a part of.”

VIPP was grateful to have Michael LoPorto as a Cultural Ambassador for our 2026 Global Summer Programs. The Global Summer School, German Fulbright Summer Institute, and Agribusiness Summer Institute are immersive experiences for short-term visiting students from around the world to participate in specialized courses and explore the heart of Michigan.

Michael is a third-year student at James Madison College at Michigan State University studying Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy, as well as Spanish, originally from Grosse Pointe Woods, Michigan.

“Going into this job, I wanted to become a better “Citizen of the World”; while I do think that my knowledge has expanded and my ignorance has decreased, I feel that this is only the beginning of a longer journey of cultural exchange.”

Read more about Michael and learn more about VIPP summer programs: https://vipp.isp.msu.edu/news_article/24298

Michigan State University MSU International Studies and Programs

09/04/2026

35 years of global impact. 35 years of advancing international education. 35 years of providing transformative, professional experiences.

The Visiting International Professional Program at MSU is proud to celebrate its 35th year anniversary, and we are excited for this final semester full of celebrations, pride, and continued excellence.

The first half of this year is hard to beat, with our alumni reunions in Seoul, South Korea, and Almaty, Kazakhstan with the Bolashak Program, as well as a summer to remember with our Global Summer School, German Fulbright Summer Institute, and Agribusiness Summer Institute.

But more is still on the horizon! We are honored to be hosting another alumni reunion in Nanjing, China this October, as well as an end-of-year celebration with our on-campus program participants and partners this December.

We would like to extend our gratitude to all our partners, students, scholars, visitors, and esteemed alumni, for making VIPP the success it is today. Here’s to many more years of VIPP. And we'll see you next in Nanjing!

Spartan Forever. Go Green!



MSU International Studies and Programs, Centre for International Programmes - Bolashaq, Fulbright Germany

08/28/2026

As summer comes to a close, we at VIPP invite you to look back on the incredible learning experiences, friendships, and memories made at Michigan State University these past couple months: https://youtu.be/TtChAchhQV4

This summer, students from China, Germany, and South Korea joined our Global Summer School, German Fulbright Summer Program, and Agribusiness Summer Institute to embrace unique MSU opportunities, explore their fields of study, and discover new and emerging career paths.

With the help of our Cultural Ambassadors, these students traveled around the state of Michigan, experiencing American and Midwestern culture and making memories with friends from around the world.

We wish all our students the best of luck in their continuing academic journeys and can’t wait to see all they accomplish.

Once a Spartan, always a Spartan. Go Green!



Michigan State University MSU Office for International Students and Scholars MSU International Studies and Programs Fulbright Germany

As summer comes to a close, we at VIPP invite you to look back on t...

08/25/2026

Congratulations to our 2025-2026 Bolashak Scholars on completing their year-long studies at Michigan State University! 🎉

We had the pleasure of hearing from these 15 scholars reflect on their time researching in the U.S. last week in a two-day symposium, hosted by VIPP.

These scholars from Kazakhstan were sponsored by the Bolashak International Scholarship Program to pursue the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of elevating their knowledge and expertise as tomorrow’s leaders at a globally ranked, major research institution in the heart of the American Midwest.

“They make so much great progress here at MSU, and I hope what they achieved here they can bring back to Kazakhstan and stay connected here with VIPP at MSU,” said Dr. Xiaoqing Chen, Assistant Director of VIPP.

Thank you to MSU International Studies and Programs and MSU Office for International Students and Scholars for their support and encouragement of the Bolashak Scholar Program here at MSU, allowing these leaders to make a difference both in Michigan and back home in Kazakhstan 🇰🇿

Read more about these scholars’ experiences and the Bolashak Scholar Program: https://vipp.isp.msu.edu/news_article/24295



Michigan State University Centre for International Programmes - Bolashaq

08/21/2026

What if your next professional or educational opportunity took you to Michigan State University? 🌎💚

The Visiting International Professional Program (VIPP) is a home for professionals, scholars, and students from around the world to pursue educational and professional development opportunities at MSU.

Whether you're an individual or organization looking for a short-term professional training, a summer cultural exchange, or a year-long research experience, VIPP can help you build connections, expand your expertise, and experience life at a leading American university.

Read to explore what's possible? ✈️

Discover VIPP programs on our website: https://vipp.isp.msu.edu/



Michigan State University MSU International Studies and Programs MSU Office for International Students and Scholars

08/17/2026

VIPP Scholar Spotlight in honor of VIPP’s 35th anniversary! 👏👏👏

Assiya Dukenbayeva came to Michigan State, one of the world’s top research universities, to invest in her agricultural research abroad and bring it back home to Kazakhstan. 🇰🇿

She has more than 20 years of research experience in plant sciences, biodiversity, plant pathology, genetics, and crop improvement in Kazakhstan.

Currently, Assiya is completing a scientific internship within the Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences under the supervision of Professor Valerio Hoyos-Villegas. Her research is dedicated to anthracnose disease in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and to identifying bean genotypes with resistance under greenhouse conditions. 🌱 🌾

“For Kazakhstan, this research is important because agriculture needs crop diversification, sustainable production, and better protection against plant diseases. Legume crops such as common bean can provide valuable plant protein, improve crop rotation, and support more resilient farming systems,” Assiya said.

For Assiya, one of the most meaningful experiences during her stay at MSU has been working in an international scientific environment alongside researchers and students from different countries.

“It strengthened my confidence as a researcher, expanded my international network, and gave me new ideas that I can bring back to Kazakhstan,” Assiya said. “I hope that the knowledge and experience gained at MSU will contribute to the development of plant science, modern teaching, and sustainable agriculture in my country.” 🌏

Read more about Assiya ➡️ https://vipp.isp.msu.edu/news_article/24290

If you want to share your VIPP story, email [email protected].

Centre for International Programmes - Bolashaq MSU International Studies and Programs L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University Michigan State University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources

08/02/2026

As we celebrate the conclusion of another incredible program at Michigan State University, we want to thank this outstanding group of Fulbright students from Fulbright Germany for being part of the VIPP community.

Throughout their time at MSU, they embraced every opportunity to learn from our exceptional faculty, engage in meaningful academic discussions, and expand their knowledge in and beyond the classroom. They also experienced Michigan culture firsthand, thanks to the support and friendship of our amazing student assistants, who helped make their time here both memorable and meaningful.

From exploring campus and the local community to building lasting friendships and gaining new perspectives, this cohort made the most of their experience in East Lansing.

We're happy to share that everyone has arrived home safely, and we hope they carry the memories, connections, and lessons from their time at Michigan State University with them for years to come.

Thank you for being part of the VIPP family. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors—we hope to see you again someday! 💚🤍

07/30/2026

VIPP was pleased to host participants from The Fulbright Program for a day of educational exploration in Grand Rapids.

The highlight of the visit was the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, where participants examined President Ford's life and legacy and gained a deeper understanding of the American presidency, civic leadership, and the nation's democratic institutions. Through the museum's exhibits, the group explored pivotal moments in U.S. history and engaged with the principles of public service, integrity, and leadership that continue to shape American government.

Following the museum visit, participants explored downtown Grand Rapids before concluding the day at Tanger Outlets, experiencing another aspect of American culture and community.

At VIPP, we offer opportunities that enrich international education through firsthand cultural and historical experiences, fostering greater global understanding and cross-cultural engagement.

07/27/2026

The Fulbright Program German students recently had the opportunity to take a guided tour of the Fraunhofer lab here in East Lansing, Michigan, and left the visit quite impressed

"I found it really interesting and really exciting how many different areas they are involved in throughout industry, research, and society." — Larissa

"What I enjoyed most about the visit was the opportunity to experience applied research firsthand. Instead of only learning about these technologies in theory, we were able to see how innovative ideas are developed into practical solutions. The researchers were enthusiastic, open to questions, and explained complex topics in an understandable way." — Luise

Visits like this show how research and industry come together to turn ideas into real-world impact — giving our students valuable insight into how innovation drives business growth and technical progress alike.

Thank you to for hosting us and investing in the next generation of leaders and innovators!

07/24/2026

More than 150 Summer Institute students embraced the Spartan experience through an evening of community, tradition, and fun. From enjoying a summer BBQ and exploring Spartan Stadium to leaving their mark by painting the Rock, students created lasting memories while building friendships and experiencing the spirit of Michigan State University. These shared experiences reflect the connections and cultural exchange that make the Summer Institute a truly unforgettable program. 💚🤍