GLOBAL KEY AMBASSADORS

The Global Key Ambassadors Executive Board (GKA Exec) is a small group of student workers who serve as a resource to other Villanova students during all components of a study abroad experience. Whether during the planning phase, while abroad, or after the return home, GKAs play an integral role by assisting with office events and activites. GKA Execs gain experience in a professional office and acquire knowledge about international education all while supporting their peers.


 

GKA EXECUTIVE BOARD

Meet our current GKA Exec Board!

Gia Beaton '21 CLAS

Love Speech '27 CLAS

Study Abroad Locations: Nagoya and Tokyo, Japan

Major: Public Administration
Minors: Philosophy, Japanese

 

Love Speech is a Senior studying Public Administration, with minors in Philosophy and Japanese and is currently pursuing her MPA at Villanova University. She has done two study abroad programs, both to Japan. Currently, she’s the president of Villanova’s ICMA chapter and a Residence Life assistant.

Gia Beaton '21 CLAS

Hayden Lowery '27 CLAS

Study Abroad Location: Montpellier, France

Major: Psychology

Minor: French and Francophone Studies, Economics



Hi, I am from Louisville, KY, and studied abroad with the University of Minnesota's Advanced Language and Culture Program in Montpellier, France. I was able to spend the year with a host family and take classes directly in a French university, which exposed me to the culture of Southern France and helped me make lasting relationships. My study abroad experience was one of the best choices I have made for myself, and I am excited to be able to help other students find their version of this!

Gia Beaton '21 CLAS

Tess Restori '27 CLAS

Study Abroad Location: Copenhagen, Denmark

Major: Comprehensive Science

Minor: Deaf Studies

 

My name is Tess Restori, and I am a senior Comprehensive Science major with a minor in Deaf Studies. During the Fall of 2025, I studied abroad in Copenhagen, Denmark through DIS, where I immersed myself in Danish culture while gaining a deeper appreciation for wellbeing and balance in daily life. While abroad, I engaged with healthcare professionals across Europe and completed pre-med coursework that expanded my understanding of global healthcare systems. This experience strengthened my ability to adapt, grew my independence, and broadened my perspective on living in new environments.

Gia Beaton '21 CLAS

Simon Cibeira Fontainas '27 VSB

Study Abroad Location: Urbino, Italy and Ireland

Major: Finance, Accounting, International Business

 

I’m a senior at Villanova University double majoring in Finance and Accounting, with a co-major in International Business. I’m originally from Spain and came to Villanova as an international student. During my sophomore year, I spent a semester studying abroad in Urbino, Italy, which became one of my favorite college experiences. I also took part in a short May program in Ireland. I enjoy travelling, meeting people from different backgrounds, and discovering new places, food and cultures. I’m excited to help contribute to Villanova study abroad programs.

Rosalia

Rosalia Machado '27 CLAS

Study Abroad Location: Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic

Major: Sociology, Spanish

 

My name is Rosalia, and I'm a Sociology and Spanish double major and an incoming MPA student. I studied abroad during the spring of my junior year with CIEE in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic. I did not go abroad with any Villanova students, but I made lasting connections and memories with new friends. I hope to use what I learned during my time abroad to create inclusive spaces for others and, one day, to travel the world for work.

Teddy Dunn '27 CLAS

Study Abroad Location: Athens, Greece and Prague, Czech Republic

Major: Political Science

Minor: History

 

I am from Pelham, New York, and am a Political Science major and History minor. I am a huge dog person and love to travel and try new things. My favorite place I’ve ever been is Crete, Greece.

Julia Erdlen '27 CLAS

Study Abroad Location: Seville, Spain

Major: Communication, Psychology

 

Hi! My name is Julia Erdlen and I am a senior from Darien, Connecticut. During the first semester of my junior year, I studied abroad in Seville, Spain. It was an amazing experience that helped me grow independently while immersing myself in Spanish culture. I’m excited to connect with other Villanova students and help them make the most of their study abroad opportunities!

Xavier Kolmer '27 COE

Study Abroad Location: Madrid, Spain, Buenos Aires, Argentina, Toyko, Japan

Major: Computer Engineering

 

Originally from Secaucus, New Jersey, and educated in New York City, this globally minded student has developed a strong interest in cultural immersion and personal growth. With a proud half-Cuban background, they are naturally drawn to study abroad programs in Spanish-speaking countries as a way to explore their Latin roots while expanding their worldview. At the same time, they have embraced challenges beyond their comfort zone, including studying in Tokyo. His passion for study abroad is clear and reflected in his experiences. Despite pursuing Computer Engineering, he has managed to study abroad three times in three different countries and plans to continue this passion after college by living abroad.

Office of Education Abroad

Villanova University
Top Floor, Garey Hall
800 Lancaster Avenue
Villanova, PA 19085