Videos

A 1997 graduate of Appalachian's Walker College of Business, Sparks earned a bachelor's degree in business administration. In 1998, earned a master's degree in accounting at Appalachian. He returned to graduate study at UNC Chapel Hill, where he completed his M.B.A. in 2004.

"Brazil is the eighth largest economy in the world and will be growing at a higher rate than the United States, probably for the next decade," says Dr. Martin Meznar, assistant dean for international programs in Appalachian's Walker College of Business. "I feel it is vitally important that students be exposed to opportunities beyond the border of the United States, and that's why we launched our study abroad to Brazil three years ago."

The most recent group traveled to Brazil during the 2011 spring break—24 students representing business, appropriate technology and biology who learned about sustainable management practices. The study abroad trip was part of their semester-long coursework.

Vatican Astronomer Brother Guy Consolmagno has spent his entire career exploring the connections of science, religion and society. A prolific writer, he has authored numerous books including the bestseller "Turn left at Orion." Brother Consolmagno has taught at several well-known universities including Harvard and MIT. His scholarly work addresses how the move to view and emotional appreciation of the stars to a deeper understanding of reason and truth.

This video was produced by Appalachian State University students who participated in the semester-long 2010 Costa Rica Freshman Experience. It was created as their final project.

Since 2004, Appalachian has presented a fun and interactive fair that provides easy and accessible ways to learn about cultural and religious international holidays.