Studying abroad

Hands-on studies in far off lands

Students can study abroad and earn academic credit toward graduation at the same time.

With the assistance of the Office of International Programs at California State University, Sacramento, students have the opportunity to build resumes and understand other cultures simultaneously. It’s easier than most students think.

It is easier because financial aid and scholarships are available, according to Dr. Monica Freeman, coordinator of study abroad programs.

“Financial aid pays for about 65 percent of the cost of CSU programs. Students might not realize that scholarships are also available just to assist with studies abroad. I encourage any student interested to complete scholarship applications,” said Freeman.

The various programs are flexible, making studying in another country a real possibility.

“Students may attend for one academic year, one semester or for the summer,” said Janis Silvers, study abroad advisor.

There is no financial aid through the university for summer programs, however, the Office of International Programs helps students research these outside programs and find outside sources for financial assistance.

Stesha Hodges, a criminal justice senior who studied at Middlesex University in London, England, discovered that for her, one academic year was necessary.

“One year was beneficial because the first semester I spent getting adjusted to the culture. That was so important for me because you’re away from everything that is normal to you,” said Hodges.

Not only did Hodges make lifelong friends in England, but she also learned about a larger world.

“We get so Americanized. We sometimes forget to look at the whole picture. I became more independent. You learn to trust yourself, to rely on yourself, because you have no one to fall back on,” said Hodges. “I would definitely go back if given the opportunity.”

“Some students wished it was a two-year program,” she said, referring to the Middlesex program.

“There are so many choices for students, depending on what they’re interested in. They can study the Shona language in Zimbabwe or Mandarin in Taiwan,” said Silvers.

Studying abroad might seem daunting because many assume that knowing a different language is required. But according to Silvers, many programs exist that do not demand this requirement.

“In some cases, students go to take classes in their major or minor and learn the language of that particular country in English,” said Silvers.

Students tend to study abroad in their junior or senior year. However, freshmen, sophomores and graduate students are welcome to participate in several of the programs according to Freeman.

She handles transferability of credit — an issue of much concern for students.

Freeman looks at descriptions of courses offered at a university the student has targeted and compares them to the coursework that is required of the student here at CSUS. Freeman then contacts the particular department involved to get permission for the student to take such courses.

The Office of International Programs is holding several informational meetings for students seriously interested in studying abroad.

Contact OIP at 278-6686. Also find out about study abroad programs on the Web at: http://www.csus.edu/oip