Study Abroad Global Ambassador Joie Jarilla Turns Passion into Purpose

As graduation approaches this May, Joie Jarilla is reflecting on a Rutgers journey defined by creativity, global exploration, and a commitment to helping others find their place in the world. 

Jarilla, who will earn her degree in Information Technology and Informatics (ITI) from the Rutgers School of Communication and Information (SCI), has built her academic path around web design and user experience. But it’s her work beyond the classroom, particularly through her study abroad experience, that has shaped her aspirations in powerful ways. 

Since 2025, Jarilla has served as a student worker with the Rutgers Global Study Abroad office through a partnership with the Universities Study Abroad Consortium (USAC). In her role as a Global Ambassador, she has become a key resource for students considering international education opportunities.

The Global Ambassador program connects returned study abroad students with peers who are curious about going abroad. Ambassadors share firsthand experiences, answer questions, and support advising and outreach events, offering insights that make the idea of studying abroad more accessible and less intimidating.

Jarilla has taken this role a step further as the lead of the Global Ambassador video project. She directs and produces short videos featuring Rutgers students sharing their study abroad and global internship stories. What began as a personal interest in vlogging has evolved into a meaningful creative outlet and professional steppingstone. She collaborates closely with fellow students, brainstorming concepts and helping them tell their stories in authentic and engaging ways.

“I’ve always loved filming and storytelling,” Jarilla said. “Being able to combine that with helping other students—it just feels like the perfect fit.”

Her passion for creativity extends across campus. During her college career, Jarilla served on the executive board of the Rutgers Association of Philippine Students (RAPS) and remains involved by participating in the annual Battle of the Barrios, an intercollegiate skit competition. Whether through student organizations or her work with Rutgers Global, she thrives in collaborative, people-centered environments.

That spirit of connection also shaped her own study abroad experience.

Jarilla spent a semester at Yonsei University in South Korea, a destination she chose after considering programs in both Japan and Korea. Having taken Korean language courses at Rutgers beforehand, she arrived eager to deepen her cultural and linguistic knowledge.

Her transition wasn’t without challenges. Living off-campus, she initially found it difficult to integrate into university life. As a self-described introvert, Jarilla pushed herself to attend mixers and student events—small steps that led to meaningful friendships and personal growth.

“That experience really taught me how to be comfortable being uncomfortable,” she said.

Her efforts paid off. She built lasting connections, improved her Korean language skills, and immersed herself in everyday life in Seoul. Among her favorite discoveries were the city’s vibrant café culture—especially unique spaces like vinyl cafés where visitors can relax with music and coffee—its efficient public transportation system, and an overall sense of safety that allowed her to explore with confidence.

Because Jarilla is a student in the School of Arts and Sciences Honors Program, she has channeled her international experience into her Capstone Project. She participated as a volunteer in the “Conversation Tree Café” initiative at the New Brunswick Public Library, creating a welcoming space where community members can gather to practice languages—including Korean—and connect across cultures.

“I’m grateful my experience has helped in this way,” she said.

As she looks ahead to life after Rutgers, Jarilla plans to pursue opportunities that blend her technical skills, creative interests, and global perspective. She is particularly drawn to roles with an international focus, where she can continue helping people navigate new places and experiences.

For Jarilla, study abroad was more than a semester overseas. It was a catalyst for growth, creativity, and connection—one she now helps pass on to others.

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