Advising and Study Abroad
Studying abroad gives our students confidence that they can succeed in the world at large. Given the growing complexity and interdependence of global affairs, experience abroad results in better, more effective citizens and employees.
Students should plan to study abroad as soon as they arrive on campus. Programs and partner universities require the completion of one year of college and a GPA of 2.5 or better, but planning for that experience should begin as soon as possible. All General Education and most major courses may be taken abroad. Study abroad used to mean one semester during a student's junior year of college. Today, you can go abroad as a sophomore, and many students select a year (actually about eight months) because they find, and studies support, that one semester is not enough. By the time one begins to be totally comfortable, it is time to return home. Two semesters provide more time to travel and to make friends. Summer programs are also available.
We work to provide the students with options suitable to their budget as well as their major, minor, or General Education needs. Together we select courses for approval by their advisor or chair and college dean. This process guarantees that the courses and credits will transfer in advance, so that they are assured of graduating in four years. We help prepare applications and assist with passports, travel arrangements, and health issues. Safety, of course, is our number one priority. Programs range from exchanges in The Netherlands, Denmark, and England to incredible experiences in China, New Zealand, Australia, Spain, and France. Once abroad, we stay in touch with students and help them schedule future classes at Ship.
There is no question of the need for future employees, teachers and leaders to understand other peoples, languages and cultures. Beyond this, the most common remark heard from returning students is, "This is the best thing I have done in my life."
Mary Sloan, Director of International Programs
Student Life Center, McClean Hall, 477-1279, mesloa@ship.edu
