UMassD Student Affairs Global Experience (SAGE)
The Student Affairs Global Experience (SAGE) Program is an innovative partnership between UMass Dartmouth’s Division of Student Affairs, Vineyard Offshore, and the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC). SAGE immerses high school and university students in the rapidly expanding offshore wind industry through hands-on learning in the U.S. and Europe. Designed to develop a diverse, skilled talent pipeline, the program blends global experiential learning with professional training, cultural immersion, and interdisciplinary collaboration across environmental science, engineering, and business. Through career exploration, mentoring, academic credit opportunities, and international networking, SAGE prepares students to become globally minded leaders ready to shape the future of clean energy.
With the support of Vineyard Offshore and MassCEC, SAGE is pleased to offer the following international experiences:
- Portugal – Spring 2026
- United Kingdom – Summer 2026
- Portugal – Spring 2027
Overview
The Spring Break 2027 Portugal Offshore Wind Student Exchange is part of the Student Affairs Global Experience (S.A.G.E.) initiative, funded by the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC).
This program provides students with an opportunity to explore offshore wind energy, renewable technologies, and global sustainability through hands-on learning, industry engagement, and cultural immersion.
Participants will visit offshore wind industry facilities, explore historical and cultural landmarks, and engage with students and professionals in Portugal. The experience is expected to include visits to Porto, Coimbra, and Lisbon, offering students an opportunity to learn about Portugal's renewable energy industry while experiencing its rich history and culture.
Please note: Cities, activities, and site visits are subject to change.
Important dates
- Application deadline: January 15, 2027, at 11:59 pm
- Application decision: January 22, 2027
- Acceptance/consent deadline: January 29, 2027
- Q&A Zoom sessions: February 18, 2027
- Travel dates: March 13 – 20, 2027
Apply to the Portugal Experience Program
Gain hands-on exposure to emerging energy technologies, sustainable practices, and global workforce needs while building an international network of peers and industry professionals.
Sponsors
UMassD Student Affairs Global Exchange (SAGE) Program is made possible by our generous sponsors:
Frequently asked questions
There is no participation cost for the Global Experience Program. All travel-related expenses will be covered, including lodging, transportation, event admissions, and meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Participants are welcome to bring personal spending money for souvenirs or other incidental purchases.
A total of ten students (five high school/tribal nation students and five undergraduate college students) will be selected for participation in each trip. Students must be in good standing with their respective schools or tribal nations.
Yes, participating students need a valid passport.
Yes, each trip will be chaperoned by Dr. Kevin Hamilton, Associate Vice Chancellor & Dean of Student Belonging and Heather Quire, Associate Vice Chancellor & Dean of Campus Life.
Students are welcome to apply for each travel program. Selection is competitive for every trip, and applying to multiple programs does not guarantee participation in all.