First-Ever MGA Study Abroad Program To India Gives Students Transformative Experiences

Author: Sheron Smith
Posted: Wednesday, April 29, 2026 12:00 AM
Categories: Honors/Awards | Pressroom | Faculty/Staff | Students

Macon, GA

The MGA students and faculty who traveled to India this spring, along with benefactors Dr. Manoj Shah and his wife, Hansa Shah (far right), and MGA leaders. Image: Tyler White

For Nayeli Ortega, saying yes to a study abroad opportunity comes naturally.

The 21-year-old Middle Georgia State University (MGA) information technology major has already traveled abroad to Germany, England, and France through previous academic programs. So when the chance came to join MGA’s first-ever study abroad trip to India, she didn’t hesitate.

“What attracted me to the trip was the opportunity to expand my horizon,” Ortega said. “Each time I’ve gone somewhere, I’ve learned something new outside the perspective of what I’m used to.”

From late March through early April of this year, Ortega joined eight fellow MGA students on a two-week immersive experience in India. Faculty members Dr. Scott Spangler and Dr. Pushpa Yadav led the group, marking a significant step forward in the University’s growing commitment to global education.

A generous gift to the MGA Foundation from Dr. Manoj Shah and his wife, Hansa Shah, made the trip possible. Their support provided each student with a partial scholarship, reducing financial barriers that often limit access to international study. Dr. Shah, a Houston County physician and former chief medical officer and vice president of medical affairs at Houston Healthcare, envisioned the program as a way to connect MGA students with his family's homeland.

Joining Ortega on the trip were students Grace Miller, Haley Lopez, Alex Cooper, Kathrene Perry, Keyvian Davis, Kaley Lopez, Macy Pruitt, and Arshpreet Kaur.

Based at Vijaybhoomi University near Mumbai, the group engaged in daily lectures and hands-on experiences focused on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, along with cultural exploration. Students examined topics such as artificial intelligence, fintech, renewable energy, robotics, and biotechnology through workshops, lab activities, and direct interaction with industry leaders.

They toured India’s National Stock Exchange and the National Payments Corporation of India, gaining insight into one of the world’s fastest-growing financial and technology sectors. In Mumbai, they visited a digital media studio to explore music production and creative innovation, and they heard from a former Flipkart executive about the rapid growth of India’s tech economy.

The group also visited a rural school founded by Vijaybhoomi University’s president and his wife, where university students teach local children language, math, science, and computer skills as part of an outreach initiative.

Outside the classroom, students immersed themselves in India’s rich culture. They visited historic landmarks, participated in traditional ceremonies, and even took part in a Bollywood dance lesson. Many also experienced henna artistry, learning about the centuries-old practice of mehndi.

Ortega said the trip left a lasting impression, particularly the contrasts she witnessed.

“The most beautiful thing I saw was the temples,” she said, “but even in the impoverished areas, you could see the beauty in families and kids enjoying their day-to-day lives together. That was amazing to watch.”

Thanks to the Shahs’ gift, MGA plans to offer the India study abroad experience each spring through 2029.

Learn more about study abroad programs offered through MGA at https://www.mga.edu/study-abroad/index.php.