Study and Visa

Study Abroad in Chile

2009-09-19T00:09:00.001-07:00

“No,” I said firmly, but with a smile, “No.” My Chilean host mother responded with complete silencio, followed by the most crushing look of disappointment as she retracted my plate full of cooked octopus and onions from the place mat in front of me. My stubbornness was sucking the life from the room and in my first week of life in Concepción, Chile, that was not the effect I had hoped to have. In a futile attempt to smooth things over I gently added in my broken Spanish, “I’m sorry but I don’t eat the fish with the eight legs.” She gave me a look of reproach and said quietly, “Why are you such a frog in un pozo?” Baffled at first, I skimmed my Spanish/English dictionary to discover that un pozo means "a well." Shamefully, I realized that what she had meant was that I was being close-minded, that it was as if I were a tiny frog, trapped and unable to see further than the walls of my mental “well.”

After that scolding, I decided against the persistent warnings of my wary stomach and reclaimed my plate. As lunch continued, I made myself a quiet resolution through the labored mastication of that miserably chewy, sponge-like, tentacled flesh. From then on out I knew that no matter what events awaited me in my time in Chile, I did not want to be the frog in the well. Caution is one thing, but what is travel if not the chance to be completely immersed in a different way of life, even if that immersion includes the consumption of things we had never even considered food prior to seeing them on our plates?

The good thing is that the choice to study abroad already proves that most of us are trying to jump out of our wells. We want to see what else is out there and we want to experience it first-hand, not solely through magazines and Travel Channel specials. The unilateral world view that plagues so many Americans is slowly broadening. Now, we do not want to read primary sources; we want to be them.

But once that decision has been made we are left wondering—what is it should I do next to prepare? The answer to that is simple—research. Find out about your new home country’s foods and customs. Learn about their history and their national holidays. All of this has plenty of practical applications. Perhaps if I had known all about all of unique creations that the coastal-dwelling Chileans concoct with fish, I would not have been so vague when I told my host family that I liked seafood.

After my arrival, I was quick to realize that life in Chile is not much different than life in the United States. People did not stop living when I got there and they have kept on living since I have left. Aside from a few idiosyncrasies like lighting a pilot each time I wanted to shower, throwing used toilet paper in the garbage bin aside the toilet because of the poor plumbing system, seeing stray dogs everywhere, and the fact that everyone was speaking Spanish around me—my life proceeded as well. I still woke up every morning, went to class, learned dirty words and funny idioms from my Chilean friends, ate empanadas, went out dancing, and even watched Papi Ricki and other Chilean television shows with my host family. All that was necessary was a willingness to adapt and to become involved in the lives of the people around me so I could be a part of how they live.

Travel became central to the experience. Nearly every weekend I would travel with other students from the program to different parts of Chile and neighboring Argentina. We visited fjords, glacier lakes, sleepy beach towns, lunar landscapes and vibrant cities like Santiago, Valparaiso, Buenos Aires and Mendoza. Other weekends I stayed in Concepción and did things with my Chilean family and friends. We went to the local rodeo, had a big Sunday lunches with all of the extended family and spent time playing paddleball on the beach.

Wherever the situation, whatever the landscape—the key is to be open to exploring. I never would have thought prior to my arrival in Chile that I would climb an active volcano or visit the bottom of the American continent and swim in the frigid Strait of Magellan. But now it is impossible to imagine not having done it.

As the program came to a close, I decided that I was neither satisfied with my level of fluency in Spanish nor my all-too-short three months of adventure. I needed more. I set up a leave of absence with my home university, checked web postings for English teaching jobs, sent resumes to multiple institutions, and waited for responses throughout the summer. As it was next to impossible to find teaching jobs over the summer because it was vacation time, I did not start getting response emails and interview requests until nearly the end. Once the employers began contacting me it became apparent that one of the most essential pieces to selecting a work place is to visit the site and make sure that the terms of your employment are clear. Not only was it beneficial because I could see what I might be getting into, but also because the chance of getting hired increases greatly if you are already present and knocking at potential employers’ doors.

I eventually settled in Viña del Mar, Chile with a six-month volunteer preschool teacher position. The job provided for room and partial board but no monetary compensation. When funds began to run low and I searched for alternate sources of income and put an advertisement for English classes in the local Sunday paper. Much to my astonishment my phone rang constantly for next two weeks. A simple and easy trip to the local newspaper office granted me steady classes for the next five months. I was even contracted to translate a love letter for a Chilean man who had become enamored with an American woman whom he had met over his summer holidays. At first I declined, worried that I would not be able to effectively translate his Spanish, but after his persistent reassurance I gave in, realizing that it was still the willingness to try that is the most important in all of this.

Even more astonishing was the life at the Preschool that tried me in things I had never dreamed of. I was teaching cartwheels and Ballet, ceramics and painting, and reading and writing to Chilean kids aged 2-6 in an English-immersion setting four days a week. That experience provided me with the day I realized that I had finally internalized my own credo of avoiding the "frog in the well" syndrome. As Africa was the topic of the month in the science room, I was asked by the head teacher to incorporate some of its culture into my gym classes. So after a little Internet research and some informational videos I pumped up the volume and taught them everything I knew about Afro-Brazilian dance. While my moves were novice at best, the experience taught me that if I can get a group of 3 year olds to shake their bodies in unison to tribal dance music, I can do just about anything.

When you boil it down, studying and working abroad are about trying different things and molding your world view to incorporate the beliefs of others. Making funny language mistakes, eating interesting food, and possibly getting the chance to swim in the Strait of Magellan or translate Chilean love letters are just part of the bargain. We were meant to adapt; the truth is that leaving home is the hardest part of it all.

Study Abroad in Helsinki Summer School as a Mature Student

2009-09-19T00:07:00.000-07:00

Valdet Tairi (Macedonia), Audrey Henderson (United States) Carolina Villar (Brazil) – at the farewell party for Helsinki Summer School participants at The Club in downtown Helsinki.

I knew as soon as I stepped onto the marshy patch of ground that I was in trouble. I can’t fall down. I just can’t fall down. I commanded myself silently. PLOP! Fortunately, the saturated grass provided a soft landing, so the only injury I suffered was to my pride.

“Let me help you,” said Mihai, one of my classmates, chivalrously extending his hand.

“I’m fine,” was my brusque response. I was determined not to let my advanced age betray me as incapable of navigating the course with everyone else. I righted myself, and had A-L-M-O-S-T regained my bearings, when PLOP! I found myself on the ground again.

“Audrey, let me help you,” Mihai insisted. “You fell down a sinkhole.”

I looked down to find that it was indeed true. So I wasn’t just an infirm old lady who couldn’t manage an ordinary outdoor field hike. I also had not been the only one to have fallen victim to the same fault in the ground.

So I was helped to my feet, continued to navigate the soggy grass, and fortunately, did not fall again. The day was highlighted by a fresh air picnic for lunch, and after the fastest shower of my life, followed by a bus and tram trip into downtown with a classmate assigned to the flat down the hall, a homemade, authentic Italian dinner (prepared by two Italian classmates!) at my instructor’s cozy flat.

This was but one of several field trips undertaken by my class, entitled Planning a Growing Urban Region, one of a dozen held during August 2007 as part of the Helsinki Summer School program. The program is an international summer study intensive, conducted in English and targeted toward graduate level students, with a few advanced undergraduates and professionals sprinkled in for variety. Our class was conducted by the Network for Urban Studies, a cooperative of the University of Helsinki and the Helsinki University of Technology.

The Helsinki Summer School Program

The Helsinki Summer School program began in 2000 as the contribution of the University of Helsinki to the European City of Culture project. From 2001 to 2004 the program was administered by a consortium of nine universities of Helsinki area (listed below). After an evaluation in 2004, the program was reorganized with a new administrative model and outsourcing service with the nine participating universities.

In 2007, more than 300 students from 50+ countries around the world were enrolled in a dozen courses included in the program, with course credits issued in ECTS (European Credit Transfer System) generally varying from 4 to 8 units per course. Most were in their 20s, with a few in their 30s. Then there was me, the grand old lady of the program, although I was to learn later that there was another participant even older than I, although we never met.

Although the course in which I had enrolled was directly related to my work in community development and research in housing related issues, and was only a short-term intensive program, the cost represented a severe strain on my finances, as I received no assistance whatsoever. The program did offer scholarship funds, but an application would have required a recommendation from my advisor, which I knew would hardly be forthcoming, as I had not been in residence for several years.

Seizing the Opportunity

I also felt painfully self-conscious about my age. At several points before I actually boarded the plane, I questioned the wisdom of my decision to take on a study abroad program in my 40s. At 47, I knew I would be older than most of the other participants, and steeled myself for that. I was not prepared, however, to discover on the first day of class that I was even older than the main course instructor! Had I been aware of this fact before my arrival in Helsinki, I might very well have decided not to make the trip after all.

The opportunity for study abroad had not been available when I was younger. In high school, as an undergraduate, and even in my earlier years as a graduate student, there was simply no money in the budget for such “frivolities” as study abroad. In the past, I had told myself that I would undertake study abroad “later,” and when “later” finally arrived; I decided that I was too old.

However, a profound loss earlier in the year sealed my decision to finally pursue what had been nearly a lifelong desire to experience life outside my own culture, at least for a short period. On of my very best friends, someone I had known since I was a teenager, had been suddenly struck down and died from Lymphoma aged only 48 years. The shock removed the cliché from the realization that life could be taken from us literally at any time.

Although my friend was taken much too soon, he had at least had the opportunity to realize most of his life’s desires and ambitions. I, on the other hand, had not. So I was determined to follow through with this, no matter what, and that was that.

I wasn’t particular about where I went. I did, however, have a number of constraints which limited my options, finances being the overriding consideration. I could neither afford nor justify a long-term program. Language was another limitation. Although I speak and write reasonably well in French, I had not studied the language for two years, and as a result I did not feel confident in my abilities to take on coursework in French. I also hoped to find a program which provided accommodations for its participants. Finally, I was hesitant to undergo a series of immunizations or a visa application–again because I was taking on this endeavor on my own, and did not want to make a critical misstep which would come back to haunt me.

I had learned about the Helsinki Summer School program some years earlier from an acquaintance who had emigrated to Finland from Germany. He had not attended the program himself, but was aware of it, and mentioned it as an option when I had made an offhand comment about my desire to study abroad.

The loss of my friend had triggered the recollection, and I decided to investigate. I began by examining the Helsinki Summer School website, which proved to be a rich resource not only about the program, but about Helsinki as well. I learned more through email inquiries to the staff. The program proved to be made to order for my needs and preferences. I submitted my application and was accepted. I also received an assignment in an efficiency flat in a section of Helsinki called Pihlajamäki which was private, as well as less expensive than the shared-room hostel accommodations downtown. This choice proved to be significant–as I truly became a resident, rather than a visitor, for the duration of my stay in Helsinki.

Academically, I was well prepared. The reading and the course requirements were challenging, and the schedule was rigorous, running the equivalent of a full work day, five days per week, with a break for lunch. Still, there was nothing involved that I could not handle, having executed all the stages of a rigorous graduate program up to and including completing a draft of a doctoral thesis.

I was also gratified to see that I was not the only participant in the program with dark skin. In retrospect I should have realized that particular fear had been groundless. Although there are not many black people in Finland, Somali émigrés and refugees actually comprise one of the larger group of immigrants to Finland. In and around Helsinki especially, I was but one of a diverse mixture of residents and visitors, and never encountered an incident of racism.

As a woman, I also felt secure traveling alone and after dark, although in early August especially, dark does not come before 10 or 11 p.m. local time. Of course, as in any urban area, it is wise to keep one’s wits about oneself. Still, Helsinki is a very safe city, including public transit, which is clean, fast and punctual.

Socially, however, I was completely at sea. Although I am told that I look younger than my years, I do have visible gray hair, and I felt inhibited in making overtures to my much younger counterparts, especially the men. I did not want to be perceived as forcing anyone to humor the weird old lady when my company really wasn’t desired. I especially didn’t want to give the impression of making unwanted romantic overtures. One of my few regrets was that I allowed these self limiting attitudes to put a damper on my extracting the full measure of the rewards to be gained from the experience.

For instance, I sat out a number of the social activities, simply because I convinced myself I would be conspicuously out of place. Granted, many of the programs were geared toward the typical study abroad participant of conventional college or graduate student age. However, many others were not.

For their part, my instructor, my fellow classmates, the program staff and even participants from other courses, were nothing but welcoming. I was never made to feel out of place. That notion was generated strictly within myself. Fortunately I did manage to participate in a number of the social diversions offered, and enjoyed each of them tremendously.

I have never been much for organized tours, and especially those which seemed to incorporate the local population as colorful backdrop to the tourist experience. I had also never understood the mentality of Americans who insisted on eating at Mickey D’s or associating only with other Americans while they were abroad. Why not just stay home?

Living in Helsinki

While in Helsinki, I found myself fully immersed in daily life, which meant learning to navigate the city on my own. As I have absolutely no sense of direction, I was lost nearly every day of my visit. However, invariably, someone would see the confused-looking black woman puzzling over a map and politely inquire “Could I help you find something?” My guides ranged from a very distinguished looking lady in her 60s to a teen with spiked bright red and purple hair to a heavily tattooed man In his late 30s, all of whom spoke good to excellent English, and each of whom smiled broadly in response to my declaration of “Kiitos!” (Thank you.)

Grocery shopping was also an adventure, as I soon learned to choose foods I recognized, either fresh fruits and vegetables, or clearly labeled meats and familiar brands, a surprising number of which had made the transatlantic journey to Helsinki, even if the labels were translated into words I didn’t understand. I soon surmised that this must be what illiteracy is like.

The summer school staff was also extremely friendly and helpful and the university facilities were excellent. Each summer school participant received a library account, discounted meals at various university cafeterias, computer privileges and a 200 page photocopy allowance. The summer school staff also provided a great deal of practical advice, such as recommending the purchase of transit cards for unlimited rides for the duration of our program.

The transit cards proved to be especially useful for those of us staying in Pihlajamäki, as the per ride fares would have been much more expensive over the course of the program. The transit cards provided the bonus of being valid to cover the fare for the ferry to the world-famous fortress on Suomenlinna Island. The students in the program were encouraged to explore Helsinki on our own, and even to take excursions to Tallinn and Stockholm, each of which was only a ferry ride away. Unfortunately, my budget did not allow for these excursions.

Helsinki Summer School Activities

The entire Helsinki Summer School program was a rich and varied buffet. Rather than being chained to a desk in an endless maze of windowless cubicles, or trapped in regimented rows with stacks of papers and books and forced to endure endless droning lectures, our days were filled with interactive presentations and discussions, and punctuated by field trips in and around Helsinki, guided by subject matter experts and knowledgeable locals.

The mishap described at the beginning of this essay occurred during an all-day class excursion to a development in progress on the outskirts of Helsinki. The purpose was to observe the guiding principles of urban development in Finland in action. This venture, along with other out of class trips, was a vital element of our learning. Seeing the developments and neighborhoods for ourselves provided experiences which would have been impossible to duplicate strictly within the classroom.

The day had begun, as all class days did, with the daily bus ride from my flat in Pihlajamäki to the Central Railway Station, smack in the midst of downtown Helsinki. Fortunately, I had met up with Stefanie, one of my classmates who was also staying at Pihlajamäki, on the trip into town, because I had no clue how to navigate from the railway station to the bus station where we were to meet our fellow classmates for the longer trip out to Espoo. With her guidance, I made it to the rendezvous point in good time.

After the bus ride, we embarked on foot from the highway across still undeveloped fields. After some hours of walking, we made our way to a mixed income development, where social (subsidized) housing was seamlessly integrated with much more affluent developments. There we enjoyed our open air picnic, then more walking, another break for coffee and cake, with a presentation on a particular social housing project by a resident. More walking, then a ride on the subway back into downtown, with an invitation to meet again in two hours at our instructor’s flat, which was located close to the tram line 15 minutes or so from the railway station.

Nearly everyone wanted a shower after what had been an enjoyable, but long and physically strenuous day. However, while the majority of our classmates were staying in the hostel located downtown, those of us assigned to Pihlajamäki were a half-hour bus ride away. Still, I needed a shower, so, along with Valdet, a neighbor from a flat down the hall, I made the trip back to Pihlajamäki.

“I’ll come by to pick you up in 15 minutes,” Valdet declared as we left the elevator on the hallway leading to our respective flats.

“FIFTEEN MINUTES?! “ I protested. “No way!”

“Yes,” he insisted. “We have to. It will take us close to an hour to get to Kaisa’s place and I don’t want to be late.” He was right, especially given the fact that neither of us had actually been to Kaisa’s place, and were therefore not entirely sure how to find it. But I had never showered and changed in fifteen minutes in my life, and especially not after having had such an arduous day. I wanted a nice, long soak in a hot bath. It was not to be. Twenty minutes later (and I was grateful for the five minute slack), there was a knock on my door, and Valdet and I were off.

Social Life

At Kaisa’s place, we were entertained by her adorable blond toddler and welcomed by her gracious husband, who seemed to take having more than twenty visitors in their comfortable (but not especially large) flat absolutely in stride. Two of our Italian classmates, Johanna and Graziana, treated our palates by preparing a variety of delicious authentic pastas and sauces, with assistance from other classmates recruited into the enterprise and accompanied by good wine and beer.

On the last day of class, again invited to Kaisa’s place, we surprised her with a T-shirt imprinted with a class photo and featuring the flags of all the participants in the class. In turn, Kaisa treated us to flutes of Cristal.

Kaisa Schmidt-Thome, the course instructor, wearing the T-shirt we gave her on the last day of class.

That night, all the summer school participants were invited to a farewell party at The Club, a downtown Helsinki nightspot. Again, my first instinct was to pass, especially since I could use the time to pack, and then to sleep before the long return trip. But I was persuaded to begin packing early and sleep on the plane.

I made my appearance at The Club at about 10:30 p.m. local time. The party was just getting underway. The venue was packed and the music was loud. Still, I heard my name even before I stepped inside. Mihai was standing just outside the door.

“You found it!” he said with a teasing smile. By this time my misadventures with finding my way around Helsinki were infamous.

“I did,” I replied with a grin.

Inside, the packed room, an open seat miraculously appeared and I was invited to sit with a group of my classmates and Kaisa, our class instructor.

“I’m so glad you decided to come!” Kaisa declared. I was glad, too.

Hearing the assorted charming accents, each clamoring to be heard over the pounding bass, were like music for me. Although nearly everyone spoke English (it was the only language we all had in common) I was one of the few persons present for whom it was a native language.

Study Abroad in Ecuador—Learning Spanish in Quito

2009-09-19T00:06:00.000-07:00

Street parade in Quito.

Welcome to Ecuador

“It’s part of Ecuadorian culture,” Jois said. “Get in there.”

Jois was my Spanish teacher and “in there” was a massive rectangular corral where an angry bull chased around two drunken clowns who had just held the bull down and poured beer into its mouth. She sat with her hand resting on a pregnant hump of belly, fanning away the heat with a piece of cardboard. We watched the spectacle below from bleachers built of decaying scrap wood tied together with bandanas. They creaked and swayed as people crawled up and children yanked at the side planks.

It was my final week in Quito after nearly two months of intense Spanish tutoring. Four hours a day, every day, one-on-one with Jois. We had spent so much time together we had become siblings.

“What will you do if I’m gored?” I asked her.

She rolled her eyes. “Por Dios, my little brother is out there.”

I turned around. Sure enough, there he was. The little 12-year-old hovered near the fence and then darted across the corral in front of the bull. The bull’s eye caught him and he gave chase, his hooves flinging wildly about his sides as he galloped. The boy swerved and leaped to the fence just as the bull swept under his heels. Jois raised her eyebrows and smiled.

I jumped down and joined a band of men inside the corral. We boldly approached the bull holding hands. The bull shifted his horns and we scattered like frightened schoolgirls over the fence. After a few such displays we celebrated our bravery safely outside of the corral. After my intense language immersion I could finally speak and laugh with them.

“Give the gringito some beer!” one of them said.

A man poured a warm foamy stream of Pilsner into my mouth. As it gurgled down I felt proud to be melting into their culture. Only in Latin America can something like this happen.

Waiting for a bullfight outside of Quito.

Finding a Spanish School

My travels in South America began in Bolivia. I had no itinerary but knew at some point I would need to enroll in a Spanish school before I returned to my University in the fall. I needed to be fluent for the following spring, when I would be attending a University in Chile.

I quickly discovered that all the information I needed could be easily attained by striking up a conversation with anyone with a heavy backpack. This is the stream of travel culture that anyone who has been on the road knows. If there is a golden rule for travel in foreign countries; it is to always wear a smile and talk to everyone. In South America Israelis seemed to be gold mines of information. There is a dense network of them throughout the entire continent, and they all seem connected to a massive sea of information hovering above everyone else’s head.

“You want school, what school?”

“A Spanish school.”

“To learn language?”

“Yeah.”

A group of them would gather and discuss the problem in Hebrew.

“Okay, you go to Quito. Very cheap and good and the instructor girls will fall in love with you. They say the best might be in Colombia but it is not so cheap. You go to Quito yeah?”

After hearing this advice from numerous sources I had my mind laid out. After a brief journey through the mountains of Peru I hopped on a bus to Quito to begin the study portion of my trip.

In Quito, as in every other Latin American city, the best way to find a Spanish school is to check the message boards at the hostels, or to ask the staff. Finding the major hostels is fairly easy: simply search websites such as www.hostelworld.com or www.hostelbookers.com. Using these websites is also useful to the traveler whose schedule changes often and who does not wish to book in advance. You can go onto the websites and research average prices before arriving in a city to ensure that you get a fair price. Knowing the average price also gives you bargaining leverage if you end up in a hotel during low season and the tenants are flexible.

The hostels often have business relationships with the Spanish schools and will be eager to point you in the right direction. Spanish classes cost between four and ten dollars an hour, depending on how long you plan to study and the reputability of the school. Many of the newer or smaller schools have significantly discounted prices because they do not yet have the reputation of the larger schools. Many will offer extra incentives, such as cultural tours, salsa lessons, or even offer classes at jungle lodges in the Ecuadorian rain forest. Schools include: Colonial Spanish School and The Quito Spanish Institute. Quito is a terrific place to learn because almost nobody speaks English.

Street vendor in Quito.

Working and Volunteering

The bolder the traveler the more inventive his or her source of income will be. Most seek internship programs or teach English—both excellent options in Ecuador. The language schools seem to always be looking for native English speakers and it is not too difficult to get a job, although you might not get rich from the pay. The more qualified you are the more your income and job security will be, but often native speaker status is enough to get you hired. At my Spanish school the coordinator offered free Spanish classes in exchange for teaching English classes. When I said no he offered to pay me. Every week new notices were posted at the hostel message boards looking for English teachers and private tutors.

If you are looking for a more exciting way to acquire income, be imaginative. The most telling examples came from travelers I have met on the road. One guy from New York took two weeks of salsa lessons and then became a salsa teacher himself at one of the salsa schools. They hired him because he could give lessons to the English-speaking customers. As long as he remained one step ahead of his pupils he made a great teacher. I met an Australian girl who was having the time of her life sailing from Cartagena to Panama City and back just about every week, and getting paid for it. The captains needed tourists to fill their boats and therefore needed English speakers to go to the hostels in order to recruit them. She filled a well-defined need and made good money doing so.

I chose an alternate route. I met an intern for Viva Travel Guides in a bar in Quito. He told me the company was always looking for writers to do freelance work for their website. The offices are based in Quito, so I set up an interview with the editor. I gave her some travel articles I had written for a school newspaper and told her which locations I could cover for her. She gave made the job. The point is to be creative and be aware of one of your most valuable assets: your ability to speak English.

If earning money is not a priority you may think about volunteer work to help pass the time or to extend the length of your travel. Volunteer opportunities in Ecuador are diverse and substantial. From working with wildlife conservation on the Galápagos Islands to teaching English in the Amazon, the opportunities are vast. Programs include: Global Vision International, www.ecuadorvolunteer.org, and The Global Volunteer Network.

Shaman in Ecuadorian Amazon.

Finding a Place to Live

By the time I reached Quito I had been backpacking South America for two months, but life in this city still astonished me. I arrived at two in the morning and left the bus station on foot to begin exploring. A band of mangy strays followed behind me and before I left the reach of the station lights a cab driver waved me down and told me I was guaranteed to be robbed if I walked from the station at night. He took me to a nearby hotel and I banged on the door until the sleepy tenant appeared. I tried to bargain a room but he was too tired and angry that I had awaken him to budge on the price. He led me through the stairwells with a lantern and showed me a cold little room on the roof, whose thin doors shuttered when the wind blew.

The next morning I went searching for a residence and found a cheap hotel in the old colonial center for four dollars a night on the condition that I stayed more than a month. It had a large bed and a balcony overlooking the bustling streets where schoolboys played soccer every night on the cobblestones.

If you are staying in Quito I suggest living in Old Town, where the buildings are beautiful and you wake every morning to heavy cathedral bells and the bullhorn wailings of the fruit vendors. Most foreigners stay in New Town—in the Mariscal district—which does not quite have the ambience of the colonial center. It has more amenities and is closer to the action but also has a much higher crime rate because of the amount of foreigners that do stay there.

Saving Money in Ecuador

One thing Americans will love about Ecuador is that they do not have to exchange money because Ecuadorians use Unites States currency. Another thing to love is that Ecuador is very cheap. This was convenient because I was very poor. Most people, even on the most frugal of budgets, will get along just fine. I was on a budget of 15 dollars a day, and that was without subtracting money for my Spanish School and hotel. So I came up with interesting ways to save money.

The first rule of budgeting in Ecuador is to always bargain. No price is ever set. To get a cheap cab thumb one down and tell him your destination and ask a price. Half that price and if he won’t do it thumb down another cab. If they won’t do it, thumb down another, steadily increasing the price from the original half until someone accepts.

For food, eat the set meals. They are always generous portions and always include soup beforehand and usually come with a drink. They cost around $1.50 and with a little searching about you will find the most popular places. The Chinese restaurants are another good choice for cheap good food, but be careful and only order half plates. The full plates are usually enough for an entire family.

If you like to cook go to the open air markets and bargain fresh produce and meat from the colorfully dressed indigenous folk. Set breakfasts are rarely satisfying, so swing by the panaderías for freshly baked pastries. I personally prefer cornflakes, which I found easy to carry even when traveling. I carried a plastic bowl and a bag of powdered milk along with me. I cleaned the bowl each morning with hand soap, mixed the powdered milk with water and had an American breakfast wherever I went.

You can almost always bargain for you accommodations. Never accept the first offer and have a look around before deciding on any particular place. Always ensure that the water is hot if they advertise hot water and, if you are uncomfortable in dirty rooms, ask to have a look at the bed before you commit to anything.

Traveling in Ecuador is cheap and relatively easy. Prices run around a dollar for each hour of travel, and some companies offer snacks and juice drinks for rides over seven hours. Most distances in Ecuador can be covered in less than eight hours, and there is no need to worry about food or drinks. Every time the bus slows down a band of street merchants will run alongside and hop on the bus to sell you anything imaginable, from cold coca-cola to hot chicken to traveling toothbrushes and "miracle" medicines. Most long distance buses have regular bathroom breaks if there is no bathroom on board (which there usually is not) as well as meal stops at restaurants where you can get typical Ecuadorian fair. You can catch a bus at the station, or by standing along the road that runs to your destination and flagging one down. Destinations are always posted on the front windshield and drivers will stop if the bus is not already full. In fact they will stop regardless of whether they are full, so you may have to be prepared for a standing journey if you plan to travel this way. Also do not expect buses to be on time. Nothing in Ecuador is ever on time.

Getting your clothes washed is easy and cheap enough. Lavanderías are scattered everywhere and most hotels and hostels have a laundry service. Due to my low budget I invested in a bucket and bought laundry soap from the supermarket. I filled the bucket with hot water from the shower and hand-washed my clothes, stringing them to dry on the rope I strung across the rooftop of my hotel.

Cheap sweet fruity wines are popular among Quiteños, but good wine only comes imported and can eat away at your dollars. Beer, however, is cheap and good, usually coming about a dollar a pint if you buy on the street. You can save even more money by returning the bottles for credit.

Quito has a spectacular nightlife to suit every taste. In the Mariscal district of New Town you can find flashy salsa clubs, grungy rockero bars, or lively gringo haunts where only English is spoken and cheap drinks are served to accommodate backpacker budgets.

If you are not carrying a cell phone this is no big deal. Nearly everywhere you go you will find someone with a little sign advertising phone calls. They will lend you a cell phone and charge you a cheap rate on the call you make. The Internet is widely available.

Visa requirements are simple for Ecuador and can be attained for free at the airport or any border crossing.

Quito from above

Words of Advice

Whatever happens, do not panic. Traveling in South America is full of rich surprises. Something will inevitably happen everyday to startle you. As long as you have a tranquil air about you things will be fine. Having traveling insurance is a wise decision. Companies like STA Travel provide affordable and extensive plans for students.

Robbery is a very real danger, especially when traveling alone in many parts of South America. I have been robbed numerous times, even at gunpoint. Once again, the key is to not panic. It is a good idea to carry a hidden pouch on you with your most essential possessions, as well as a decoy wallet in case you do get robbed. A decoy wallet should have an old, deactivated credit card and a little bit of cash. Never fight off a robber or resist. This will usually result in a physical attack. The robber should be appeased by your decoy wallet and may not harm you as long as you comply with his wishes.

The best advice I can give to any traveler is to become involved in organizations like www.couchsurfing.com or www.hospitalityclub.org. These are world-wide networks of travelers that offer free accommodation to one another, as well as organize events and gatherings. I have “couchsurfed” over 80 times in more than 20 countries and have yet to have a bad experience. I have been met with nearly mythical hospitality from every one of my hosts and have gained access to cultures that would have been impossible in any other way.

Unfortunately any traveler is inherently relegated to an outsider’s prospective. When you stay in the home of someone who was born and raised in the place you are visiting, however, an entirely new world is revealed to you. These experiences have helped me gain a deeper and more meaningful understanding of the places I have visited. All of the questions you have about the idiosyncrasies of a culture suddenly have someone qualified to answer them. You find yourself surrounded by locals rather than other travelers, and meet people who seem to have crawled out of well-written novels.

The networks also serve as cure for the loneliness that overwhelm so many travelers. These networks instantly give you friends in nearly every nation in the world.

The message boards are a great way to find traveling companions for weekend sojourns or even extended trips. They also are unequaled for information gathering. Using message boards, almost any questions you may have about a location can be answered by the locals themselves and questions you have about traveling in general—whether regarding what to pack or how to find a job—can also be answered

Learning Medical Spanish in Costa Rica

2009-09-19T00:05:00.001-07:00

One of the AEC Turrialba outdoor classrooms in Costa Rica.

Finding and Committing to a Language Program in Costa Rica

After learning about the importance of cultural sensitivity in my Sociology of Medicine course, I decided that in order to most fully relate to my patients, I would need to speak in a language they could understand. I took four years of Spanish in high school but did not choose to continue the language in college; therefore, a course in medical Spanish naturally seemed the best way to refresh my conversational skills while also developing my ability to translate medical terminology. Armed with a strong sense of purpose and a $3,000 scholarship grant for an academic pursuit, I set to work finding the ideal medical Spanish program for my needs and goals. I punched various combinations of search terms into Google, clicking on any remotely interesting result. I quickly realized that the Internet is a vast repository of study abroad resources just waiting to be tapped. One particular program stood out to me: the Adventure Education Center’s Deluxe Medical Spanish program in Costa Rica. The Center’s offerings of small classes, program excursions, and a host family stay were a combination I could not resist.

Before I could commit to the AEC Medical Spanish program, I needed to do some more homework. First, I emailed the program director asking for the contact information of previous participants. This proved to be a key step first in deciding whether to commit, and then also in choosing in which of the three Costa Rican locations I would study. After numerous positive testimonials arrived in my inbox, I was confident that an AEC program would be worth the trip. Next, I had to make sure that medical Spanish classes would not interfere with the summer internship I had already accepted at home. Thankfully, AEC allows its students to stay for as many (or as few) weeks as they would like; I successfully booked a 3-day orientation followed by two weeks of classes, which allowed me to return to the U.S. in time for my internship. Finally, in order to justify my receipt of the $3,000 grant, I needed to assemble a budget including all my expenses for the trip. Through with AEC’s program director, I learned the costs of a typical Costa Rican lunch, my bus fares to and from the program site, and a zip-lining excursion—among many other things. The research paid off when I received the grant and purchased my plane tickets to San Jose.

Preparing for Costa Rica

After purchasing my tickets, the first thing I did to prepare for my trip was to investigate which (if any) vaccines I should receive before entering Costa Rica. It is very important to take care of vaccinations as soon as possible once your travel arrangements are made, since certain vaccines are only effective if received a certain period of time before arrival. I explored the CDC’s Traveler’s Health website and went to my school health center to receive vaccines for hepatitis A and typhoid. Additionally, while I was there, the nurse prescribed malaria pills and a generic antibiotic to be used in case I contracted a bacterial infection. I never expected to get sick, but nonetheless I did come down with some mean Montezuma’s Revenge, which required an antibiotic to cure. Although I could have obtained the medicine fairly easily in Costa Rica, it was good to know that I had it on hand. I strongly recommend that anyone traveling to Central America bring both over-the-counter and prescription medication in case of sickness.

Besides taking these health precautions, I also prepared to encounter Costa Rican culture and to be immersed in the Spanish language. First, I wanted to bring a gift to my host family to thank them for housing me. I had no idea what would be appropriate, and so I asked the AEC program director, who advised me to bring something unique to my hometown. This proved to be great advice; my family devoured the assortment of packaged foods I brought them. In addition to preparing to meet my host family, I needed to refresh my Spanish-speaking skills. I had not taken Spanish classes in almost three years, so naturally I felt a bit unprepared and nervous. I reviewed my notebooks from high school, watched some Telemundo here and there, and wrote a bunch of letters to a friend in Spain (in Spanish) in order to re-orient my brain to think in the language. Whether or not these preparations actually enhanced my speaking ability in Costa Rica, they definitely relaxed me and eased my transition into a Spanish-speaking environment.

Handling the Transition

In order to cope with culture shock and eventually overcome the language barrier in Costa Rica, it is important to force yourself to speak in Spanish as much as possible while also remaining patient and maintaining a positive attitude. Never having spent more than a few days in a Spanish speaking country, I underestimated how alienated and discouraged I would feel when everyone around me spoke in a different tongue. When I first arrived for orientation in San Jose, I was too nervous to say anything more than “gracias” and “por favor” in Spanish; instead, I slipped into English with the program staff and looked forward to the arrival of more American students. A few days later, I boarded a bus to the small town of Turrialba where my host family would pick me up. I felt so nervous that I almost got physically sick on the bus ride--I dreaded stepping off the bus and having to speak Spanish in order to communicate.

Surprisingly, once I was forced to listen and speak in Spanish, I became increasingly comfortable and my fluency improved. I learned to listen carefully as my family members spoke and to answer them as slowly as I needed to, without feeling stupid or embarrassed. The more I relaxed, the easier communication became. In situations when I did not know the proper Spanish equivalent of a word I wanted to say, or when my host dad spoke a little too quickly for me to understand, I learned the value of asking questions: Perdon? (Pardon me?) Lo puede repitir, por favor? (Can you repeat that, please?) Que significa? (What is the meaning?). Additionally, I relied on gestures to supplement words; body language—largely universal across cultures—proved very useful in communication with los ticos. I chose to live in Turrialba over the other two locations offered to us because former students had told me that virtually everyone in the town spoke Spanish. I also hoped to gain speaking practice through living with a host family. In retrospect, I realize that while these two choices made my first few days in Costa Rica a little harder, they really helped maximize the improvement of my language skills over an incredibly short period of time.

Regina with her host mother, Yenory.

When you do become comfortable speaking the language and are motivated to go out and explore town, you need to remember to exercise caution. I first studied abroad in Bath, England, where safety was not nearly as much of a concern as in Costa Rica. Although my teachers and host family reassured me that the Turrialba streets were safe to walk, I did make sure that I looked alert at all times. The Costa Rican people, also known as ticos, are amazingly friendly and always willing to talk. Costa Rican men--and Latin American men in general--tend to freely voice their opinions about pretty girls on the street. A few times a group of guys approached me and my classmates as we walked into the center of town, yelling things like guapas and various other expressions that I am glad I could not understand. On one hand, it was flattering, but on the other hand, I realized that we stuck out like sore thumbs and the guys probably recognized us as tourists. Thankfully, I never carried more money on my person than I would need that given day; additionally, I kept my passport, plane tickets, and debit card locked in a drawer at my host family’s house. When I did need to carry my passport, such as the day I went to the bank to pay my exit taxes, I carried it in a pouch that rested underneath my shirt. When exploring, I would recommend trying to go with friends, making a point to be aware of your surroundings, and carrying as few valuable items as possible.

Cultural Immersion in Costa Rica

The AEC Medical Spanish program facilitates cultural immersion by incorporating interaction with the locals and engagement with current Costa Rican issues into the curriculum. Each weekday began with four hours of personalized, one-on-one instruction in Spanish conversation and language. During this time, my professor would inform me about one particular aspect of Costa Rican society and would ask me to respond, giving my own opinion and also comparing and contrasting similar situations in the United States. For example, we spent one class discussing the changing role of women in Costa Rican culture. Whereas women typically maintain the household and raise children while the men go out to work, increasing numbers of ticas are seeking college educations and professional positions in the workforce. During the second week of classes, my professor tailored virtually every lesson to my own interests while challenging me to get closer and closer to fluency. After discovering that I played the clarinet, she took me into town to meet her father who happens to be the director of Turrialba’s community orchestra. I interviewed him about participation in the group and the financial challenges of providing instruments and funding concerts. Although I struggled with some musical vocabulary, I ultimately really enjoyed the experience of asking questions and responding to a native speaker. The unique integration of language practice and cultural encounter—a hallmark of the AEC academic experience—allowed me to learn a ton in a short period of time.

The combination of immersion and language learning also was of vital importance in achieving my goal of learning medical Spanish. Three afternoons per week, I took a 2-hour medical Spanish class taught by a physician (who spoke almost no English) and participated in different medically related activities. We took one particularly memorable trip to an orphanage just outside of Turrialba to interview the staff about the children’s medical histories and conditions. Many children end up in Costa Rica’s orphanages not because their parents have died, but because they have debilitating medical conditions that require expensive, round-the-clock care. Fortunately, other families (some Costa Rican, but largely European) who do have the time and means to care for such children often do adopt them. Normally, I would have expected that the children of teenaged mothers would largely comprise the populations of Costa Rican orphanages. Teenaged pregnancy is relatively common in Costa Rica, in large part due to the Catholic Church’s influence on the government and their recommendation that sex education begin no earlier than age 16. Abortions are extremely uncommon in Costa Rica, but usually babies born to teenaged mothers are cared for by the young woman’s family rather than placed in orphanages. In all aspects of Costa Rican life, family ties are of paramount importance and strength.

When not busy taking classes, I seized upon the opportunity to participate in recreational activities offered through AEC. The program fee includes one cooking and one dance class per week, both of which proved very enjoyable as well as being yet another way to learn about Costa Rican culture. Two trips to tourist attractions were included as well: one to Guayabo, a pre-Columbian archaeological site, and one to a Serpentarium filled with virtually every species of Costa Rican snakes. AEC is involved in a partnership with Explornatura, a company that runs various types of adventure trips in the lush Costa Rican wilderness: river rafting, canyoning, zip-lining, and horseback riding are just a sampling of the options. Participating in these afternoon excursions was a great way to leave the books for a while and see the gorgeous landscapes for which Costa Rica is so famous.

Regina at the Volcan Poas outside of San Jose, during orientation.

Pura Vida

Devoting two and a half weeks to studying Spanish and medical Spanish taught me so much more than language vocabulary. I learned the importance of leaving my comfort zone and confronting fears rather than avoiding them. Speaking Spanish whenever possible, while difficult, allowed for the development of a close relationship with my host family while achieving maximum improvement in my conversation skills. Additionally, thanks to AEC and my own determination, I gained a sense of Costa Rican culture that I never could have imagined. The combination of academic program, experiential learning, and community integration is one that can only be described as pura vida: literally translated “pure life,” or the Costa Rican equivalent of saying, “this is living.”

Lessons Learned

My experience in Costa Rica has taught me:

To gain inspiration through classes. I first became interested in medical Spanish through a Sociology of Medicine course. My final paper dealt with cultural sensitivity in medical practice; overcoming language barriers is a large part of bridging the cultural gap between doctor and patient. My desire to become a more culturally sensitive doctor led me to medical Spanish and eventually to AEC.
To hear from previous participants. Talking to previous participants helped me to first decide whether or not to join up with AEC, and beyond that, which of the three locations to choose.
To confront fears, rather than avoiding them. Using only gestures and speaking English whenever possible did nothing to quell my fear of speaking entirely in Spanish. I only improved and became more comfortable when I forced myself to speak the language.
To do what the locals do, eat what they eat, and speak how they speak. Living with a host family proved instrumental in my experience of Costa Rican culture.
To make study abroad work for me. Since I had already secured a summer internship back home in Philadelphia, I only had a few weeks during which to travel. Nevertheless, I was able to have an intense, enriching experience by maximizing time spent speaking Spanish, participating in one-on-one Spanish classes, and seizing upon excursion opportunities.

Study Abroad in Brussels, Belgium

2009-09-19T00:03:00.001-07:00

I was recently asked in an interview “Why Belgium?” to which, with a grin, I shot back the answer “for the chocolate.” My reply offered thinking time to dwell on a more earnest response such as “seriously though, having taken a module in European politics I was drawn to Brussels as it is at the core of European decision making.” Truthfully, as a young, carefree, and admittedly rather naive first year student, the choice between Rome and Belgium had been a difficult one. Pizza or waffles? Pasta or chocolate? The allure of chocolate won out.

Now, however, I adore this charming little country (which could fit inside the U.S. 300 times), where some of the most famous “people” are TinTin and Hercule Poirot, and, arguably, their most famed landmark is a fountain of a urinating child. Yet the experience of studying, working and living in Belgium taught me so much more; it was a passage of enlightenment taking me from being a naive isolationist to becoming a true European.

Home Base: The University of Exeter in the U.K.

I chose to go to the University of Exeter as it was the only university in the U.K. where I could study Economics and Politics and still spend a year abroad. While all other universities required you to study (for example) Economics and Russian or Politics and Portuguese, this course allowed me to combine my passion for the social sciences (not languages) with an opportunity to experience another society and increase my cultural awareness.

I am fortunate to be one of over 1.5 million students who has benefited from the Erasmus programme. The European Commission offers each student a grant with the aim of increasing student mobility within Europe and promoting transnational co-operation projects among universities across Europe. While the benefit to the European Union as a whole is unclear, the experience greatly benefits individuals, who return from their year abroad more confident, independent, and with an enhanced C.V.

Vlekho Business School in Brussels

My home university is linked to Vlekho Business School in Brussels—a relatively small business school. Having since met people studying at other educational establishments in Belgium, I realize that the business school had both its positive and negative aspects. As a “hogeschool” (Dutch for “high school”), it does not have the prestige of other, more esteemed institutions, but it does offer a more friendly and welcoming environment that other higher education organizations may lack. It is important that each student assess what he or she is expecting from a university or college and researches as much as possible before embarking on the program. If you are seeking a larger university in Brussels, for example, you should ask your home university if you can do an exchange with Université Libre de Bruxelles, rather than simply accepting your placement at a hogeschool. I was very happy at Vlekho, where I could take modules which involved business management games—a very different approach from the theoretical and conceptual structures I had been taught at Exeter, and leaving me with a better and more rounded knowledge base.

Which Language to Learn? French or Flemish?

Once I had decided to move to Brussels, I took up a course at Exeter in Intermediate French (Brussels is 80% Francophone); but, as it turned out, to little avail. Belgium is a small country with something of an identity crisis—it has three national languages (French, Flemish, and a small minority of German). I had thought that my year aboard would help to increase my language skills, but unfortunately my preparation and research failed to alert me to the fact that Vlekho Business School was indeed a Flemish school, and that the majority of students would therefore speak Flemish rather than French.

Finding a Place to Live in Brussels

Brussels is a large city, over 160 km2 (62 square miles) and with a population of approximately 1,080,790, so finding a place to live was daunting. Once again, it is important to do some research and assess what you are looking for from your accommodations. Some students opted to live with a host family, which gave them a truly Belgian experience, while others rented an apartment (which had the downside of requiring a yearly contract despite the fact that we were participating in a 9-month program). You can find apartments in newspapers such as Vlan or De Sreekkrant. Another drawback of living in an apartment is that even if it is fully furnished you must provide your own mattress—something many students had not anticipated, and which proved somewhat difficult to obtain with no access to a private transport.

Personally, I opted to live in Quartier Latin, Brussels International Students Center, which had only just opened. As the name implies, it offers accommodations to students from all over the globe, and is a fantastic way to meet new people. The lodging was set in the beautiful building which was an old bank, and although when I moved in the center was not completely finished, over the course of my stay I saw many improvements, such as the addition of laundry machines and the television rooms. The people who ran the center were helpful and the rent was inexpensive. Being in the center of the city, It was also ideally located. In just a few minutes you could jog from the center to Brussels Park (Parc de Bruxelle in French or Warandepark in Dutch), the largest urban public park in Brussels—which is bordered by the stunning buildings of the Royal Palace of Brussels, the Belgian Parliament, and the U.S. embassy. In the summer, free parties are organized at the park every weekend.

In the Parc de Bruxelles with some friends.

Making the Transition

Initially, I had no Internet connection. In hindsight, this was probably a good thing, as instead of spending spare time staying in contact with friends at home I was able to immerse myself in a new life and concentrate on building new friendships. As I had left my university friends behind to graduate without me, I felt somewhat in limbo—not really part of the University of Exeter anymore, but not quite wholeheartedly throwing myself into this new experience either. It is important to fully embrace the study abroad experience with enthusiasm, and once the initial homesickness wore off, this is precisely what I did.

Studying in Brussels gave me amazing opportunities to meet other students from all over Europe and Latin America who had come together in this multicultural and cosmopolitan city. I do not believe that you can truly understand a nation and its people unless you learn its language(s), and, when I return to live in the Benelux I intend to complete an integration course in order to live as a Dutch person, rather than as a foreigner. While it was a shame that during the year my language skills did not improve—as the common language between us remained English—there was a reward it that I learned about cultural differences which shaped my understanding of the world around me. The opportunity to meet so many people from different countries also gave me the chance to confirm or challenge existing stereotypes.

Friends Philippa and Clare came to visit. Author is on the far right. We are standing in front of the Palace of Justice.

Living in Brussels: Practicalities

Regardless of whether you are an EU national or otherwise, if you are planning on staying in Belgium for more than three months, you must register at the local municipality (belgium.angloinfo.com/countries/belgium/residency.asp) within eight working days of arriving (usually this can be done at the local Town Hall).

When you arrive it will also be important to set up a bank account. Be aware that there may be a charge for opening and closing an account, though this might be dropped if you are a student. I banked with ING, as it was just opposite my school. One reason it is so important to have a bank account is that you will find that many stores, parking meters, vending machines, etc. use Proton, which is an electronic purse card. If you pay by cash for certain items, you may be charged more, and so it is sensible to have a Proton card.

For the student, another money saving tip is to register for a yearly travel card (at only 25€), allowing you to really get to see and know the city. However, this card is subsidized by the Flemish government, and therefore is only available for students studying at Flemish universities and hogeschools. Be aware that—as there are only a limited number available—they are only offered to students who are planning to stay in the city for a year, and therefore the station officials are required to see an annual renting contract. There are also only so many obtainable per day, and so it is important to start queuing early. I spent two days getting up at 5.30 a.m. to go to the station to get a ticket; on the third day I simply stayed up all night!

Regardless of the country you move to, there will be many small and seemingly unimportant yet frustrating questions you may have. Discovering the answers to these is all part of the journey; from a rhetorical “why is nothing open in a capital city on a Sunday?” to “where oh where can I go to get some ‘proper’ milk?” (for example, if in Brussels try a GB Supermarket).

Studying in Brussels

Unlike those who take a particular course, foreign exchange students have a lot more freedom to choose their modules, something I was used to given the nature of U.K. syllabuses. However, I was accustomed to choosing four modules each semester, instead of needing to make up 30 credits in many modules offering as few as two or three credits, as some classes would last as little as four weeks. Initially I started taking Dutch lessons, but unfortunately this clashed with a class that I needed to take as it offered more credits. It was very difficult for students to ensure that they obtained the correct amount of credits, so fortunately the tutor at my home university was very obliging, and allowed students to make up the difference with language classes or to take an extra exam after they returned to Exeter. My advice would be: if in doubt, ask questions. It was important to ensure that my home university was happy with any decisions so that I would fulfill the requirements in order to pass the year, and so I emailed my home tutor fairly regularly. However, I found that my best source of information came from fellow students, who were also trying to master the irregularity of their timetable.

I also found that examinations were completely different from those taken in the U.K. They ranged from an open book exam where you could take your study materials and notes into the examination, to an oral exam where it was imperative to remember all aspects of the course. This variation was reflected in my marks, from 100% for the open book exam to nearly failing the oral. If you are not familiar with spoken exams I would suggest practicing questions with a classmate. I found that having never experienced a spoken examination, my nerves hindered my performance.

An Internship in Brussels

In my second semester I opted to complete an internship to provide valuable work experience which I believed would not only enhance my employability, but would also offer a chance to experience Brussels from the perspective of a worker rather than simply from that of a student. In the first semester I had settled in, taken every opportunity to socialize and create new friendships, and had learned about Business Studies from an academic point of view (something which was a pleasant change from the Economics that I studied for the past two years). Now I wanted to experience the business world for myself.

In the summer before I left for Belgium, I bought the book Live & Work in Belgium, The Netherlands & Luxembourg, which listed some of the major employers in Brussels. As I knew that I sought a career within the financial sector, I sent my C.V. and cover letter to one of the large American banks listed in the book in order to enquire about internships. I also visited my host tutor who offered contact details for alumni from Vlekho who were working in banking, whom I subsequently contacted. Completing this internship has since given me “the edge” when applying for entry level jobs, as in addition to increasing my knowledge of the banking markets and products, it demonstrated my proactive attitude as I had sought out and undertaken a voluntary internship.

Work Ethic in Belgium

There appeared to be a different work ethic in Belgium compared to that in the U.K. Lunchtime is a time for socializing and eating, not for sitting at your desk, and if you are a 9-5 worker, then that is, literally, what you are. Belgians are recognized as being the most productive workers in the E.U., which surely makes them very efficient and effective during the actual time that they are at work. When compared to the hours actually worked by Brits, the actual hours worked by Belgians are significantly less.

Traveling from Belgium

A major advantage of living in a small nation such as Belgium is that there is the opportunity to easily visit neighboring countries. I took the coach from Brussels to Amsterdam to meet up with a friend, and I also took the train through Germany to Austria to attend my sister’s wedding. Moving so freely between countries has changed my idea of “Europe” as a concept. Previously I had thought of it as separate nations comprising a continent, but when there are no checkpoints on the roads between countries, and by train you may be in Belgium one minute and Germany the next, it is difficult to physically see where one country ends and another starts. Now that the U.K. is connected by Eurostar to mainland Europe, I feel that it is now more symbolically connected to the notion of Europe.

Although there is free movement of Europeans between countries, I do feel that mainland European countries are more united than the U.K. is to its counterparts. Geographical differences (when cycling in the south of Holland, you do not know when you have passed the border of Belgium) and language differences (English cannot be mistaken for another language in the way that Flemish and Dutch overlap) are less obvious. This distinction between defined countries blurs even more on the mainland as it uses a single currency, while us obstinate and unyielding Brits continue to use the pound and drive on the “wrong” side of the road. Nevertheless, I now see Britain as part of Europe, rather than simply as part of an open trade market. Having been born in the U.K., I consider myself fortunate to be able to have the opportunity and freedom to live and work in a continent that offers such a diverse variety of cultures—from the friendly and laid-back “siesta then fiesta” southern Europeans to the generally shy and more introverted northern Europeans. I began my journey of a year abroad as an uninformed and naïve student who thought herself to be “going to live in Europe for a year.” Now I consider myself a European with a greater global awareness.

I went to Belgium knowing only of its chocolates, waffles, beer and TinTin. The country does encompass these things, but it is also so much more. Brussels radiates a calm sense of craziness, where visitors go on pilgrimages to seek out a statue of a boy that urinates, where cartoon characters line its walls and fully grown men read comic strips on their way to work; and where the citizen’s jobs require them to debate how straight a banana may be or to deliberate exactly what constitutes butter. This eccentric city expanded my understanding of the world around me, broadened my horizons and taught me to be more socially accepting (in my final year at university I acted as a mentor to incoming Erasmus students). Belgium itself is currently politically unstable and yet Brussels is the political heart of Europe. In a country so confused about its very own identity, I found that I was able to define mine.

Study Abroad in Paris, France

2009-09-19T00:01:00.000-07:00

Deciding where to study abroad is both an exciting and challenging step. You have a lot to consider, from local culture to the cost of living. While a recent shift shows many students are exploring new destinations for their time abroad, traditional cities such as Paris remain popular for their perfect blend of prominent local culture and international atmosphere. If Paris is on your list as a place to visit, here are some tips from Study Abroad Paris: Your Complete Guide to an Amazing Study Abroad Experience, a guidebook for getting you started on an exciting, overseas adventure:

Preparing for your Semester

We know what you’re thinking: the thought of leaving the comfort zone of your university, friends, family, even your country and native language to spend a semesterliving in Paris is intimidating. Don’t worry; it’s the exact same feeling that over 200,000 of your fellow university students experience each year before studying abroad. We can only say it’s a decision you will not regret.

When To Go

There are two main semesters: First semester (early October to mid-January) and Second semester (early February to mid-May). Many programs designed for international students finish in December as opposed to January, allowing you to return for your spring semester to the United States.

Fall is an excellent time to go to Paris. The weather is still good and most of the summer tourist season has finished. With most French students also starting classes, this is a great time to meet local residents.

Winter is a good time to visit the museums and some of the top sites in the city, because the lines and crowds at most attractions are at a minimum. Summer is very popular for students and tourists. Days are warm and sunny, and attractions and transportation schedules are in full operation. However, keep in mind, most French students will be on break; therefore, you’ll probably be studying with a majority of international students.

Cost

Money is an important issue for any college student. Consider enrolling directly with a university in Paris (this option is not for everyone since there are more administrative steps to go through and you may need to be fluent in French). French universities are inexpensive. You will have to pay administrative fees, which can vary from €170 (about $220) to €900 (about $1,170)—the fee increases with the level of study, and, if applicable, a subscription to “sécurité sociale étudiante” (roughly €190 or $247).

If you do decide to go with a program provider in America, an average semester program in Paris is $12,500. A summer semester is $6,000. These costs are only examples and vary by program. While $12,000 is not cheap, keep in mind that it includes tuition, which is typically at least 12 credit hours or more per semester, housing, excursions, and often some meals (if you’re with a host family, typically breakfast) as well as staff services on-site.

Most universities suggest a budget outside of school costs and airfare of about $950-$1,250 per month to cover your housing and living expenses. However, it’s very easy to spend more than double that if you live in an apartment in the city center, eat out often, go to bars, clubs, concerts, and travel frequently. Here’s an idea of some basic costs: Meal at a restaurant: $16-$26, meal at a restaurant universitaire: $3.50, metro ticket within Paris: $1.80, monthly metro card for Paris (Carte Orange): $69, movie ticket: $8-$12, cup of coffee: $2, baguette: $1.05.

Housing

While housing may be included, you should understand your options. From renting a private apartment to living in dorms, or with a host family, Paris offers all types of long-term accommodations. Each arrondissement of Paris has nice areas in which to live. The most desirable locations, although not the most affordable, for international students are the more lively sections of the Marais in the 4th arrondissement, the 5th near many of the universities and the 6th, which is expensive though very nice.

Dorms and Residence Halls

Visit www.ciup.fr for more information on student dorms at the large Cité Internationale Universitaire. Check the following websites for more information on private student residence halls: Estudines: www.estudines.fr, Logétude:www.logetudes.com.

Private Apartments

Renting an apartment in Paris is a dream for many students, although it’s also the most complicated option if trying to arrange it from abroad. You will have to pay a deposit, sign the right contract, etc. To find an apartment, try the paper De Particulier à Particulier, which has a great classified advertising section. There’s a paper version published every Thursday. With the online version, www.pap.fr, you can select what kind of rental you’re looking for based on several criteria, including short or long-term rentals. Both the paper and online versions are full of ads placed by homeowners; there are no intermediaries and no agencies, so there are no extra fees. If you need assistance you won’t have trouble finding a housing agency to guide you through the process.If you’re willing to pay their fees try www.fnaim.fr, for example. To keep housing costs down, you can also check the following websites for more information on sharing an apartment in Paris: www.colocation.fr or www.appartager.com.

Before you Arrive

This may sound backward, but don’t make your airfare an afterthought. Most semester-long study abroad programs do not include airfare, which, along with visas, is your responsibility. Take advantage of youth fares on Air France’s website. Select “more options” when searching for a flight. You can then change passengers from “adult” to “young adult,” which, if available, shows youth-discounted fares. Visit www.airfrance.com. Also, check Icelandair (www.icelandair.com) for fares from the United States to Paris with a free several-day stopover in Iceland. A dip in Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon or a visit to a black sand beach is always a great way to begin or end your semester abroad.

If you have a visa that allows it and want more flexibility on your return date, it may be possible to buy an open-return ticket (sometimes, you need a fixed roundtrip ticket to obtain a visa, check with your consulate), allowing you to select the date of return after your arrive in Paris. This can solve any overlapping time problems that may occur during your semester abroad.

Also, visit www.studentuniverse.com and www.statravel.com for discounted flights and travel insurance.

Once you arrive in Paris

Try to get any administrative requirements done as soon as you arrive in Paris. There are several websites designed to help foreign students in Paris when they arrive:

We do not recommend bringing thousands of dollars to Paris, but having €200-€300 upon arrival is helpful. Withdrawing cash at an ATM (with a debit card) is the best way to get a good exchange rate. Check with your home bank about withdrawal limits and fixed international withdrawal fees. You can find some ATM Locations in Paris at www.visa.com. Search “ATM locator international.”

Paris is a relatively safe city. Compared to most large U.S. cities, Paris has significantly less violent crime. On the other hand, Paris is a huge metropolitan center and gangs, guns, and drugs do exist. Areas where you should be slightly more cautious (especially at night) are the 18th and 19th arrondissements. In addition, inside the Metro and RER (suburban train) stops, Republique, Stalingrad, Gare de Lyon, Oberkampf and Châtelet-Les Halles are several places you should be more cautious. Also watch your belongings on metro line 1 and on the RER B from Paris to the airport.

Transportation

Paris has undoubtedly one of the world’s best public transportation systems. With the Metro, RER, bus, tram, and taxi, no Parisian address is too far from affordable public transportation. When you arrive, consider purchasing a Carte Orange monthly pass. It gives you unlimited access to the entire public transportation network of Paris, as long as you stay within the zones you chose at the time of purchase. Costs start at €52.50 (about $58). If you plan to stay at least a year, consider the annual Carte Imagine’R transportation pass. It’ll save you even more money.

If you’re planning travel throughout France during your stay, but you’re not ready to purchase a full train pass, the SNCF card 12-25 is a great value. Once you purchase this card [available at any Parisian train station for €49 (about $64)], you can use it when you purchase train tickets (unlimited trips) to receive a discount, up to 50 percent off your ticket. Don’t forget to bring a passport size photo and valid ID when you purchase the card.

Socializing

Academics are important, but you didn’t choose to study abroad just to study. While in France, you can have a unique and exciting social life. You just need to know where to look. Here are two organizations that organize parties, outings, social events, and trips for international and French students: Le Club International des Jeunes à Paris (CIJP).

Parisian Events and Culture

One of the biggest advantages of living in France’s largest city is the yearlong selection of entertainment and events. From fairs and festivals, to movies, theaters, cabarets, clubs and sporting events, Paris is truly the cultural capital of Europe. Metro is a free daily newspaper in French that includes news and culture articles. Metro also has a guide for exhibitions, concerts, and movies. Lylo is an essential tool for live music aficionados. It lists all the concerts in Paris and its suburbs no matter what type of music you’re after: electronic, jazz, rock, reggae, or world music. The Parisians also buy the Pariscope or L’Officiel des Spectacles, both of which list weekly events.

Your student card can be used for discounts throughout France, from opera and movie theater tickets to transportation passes. Some huge discounts are also available at the Kiosques Paris-Jeunes. These special ticket desks are reserved for people under the age of 28 living in Paris. They offer discounted and free tickets for plays, sporting events, movies, concerts, and exhibitions. In addition, some venues such as theaters, classical concert halls, and the opera houses offer huge discounts on tickets just before the show.

Studying abroad in Paris can be expensive and challenging, but with the right preparation and information your semester abroad may be the most rewarding experience of your university career.

Study abroad in Florence, Italy

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Join World Endeavors for a semester, summer, or full academic year studying in Florence, Italy in the heart of Tuscany. This region represents the cradle of the Italian language and the birthplace of the Renaissance. Its distinguished heritage and present-day cultural vitality make Tuscany an ideal place for students who have a desire to come into direct contact with Italian life and culture, both past and present. Students earn US academic credit while studying Italian language, culture, history, art, business, and a variety of other subjects in one of Italy's most dynamic cultural regions.

Eligibility:

Students must be at least 18 years old, in good academic standing, and have been previously enrolled at a college or university.

Pre-Departure Information: Before students embark, they will be provided a pre-departure handbook that includes important details about their semester abroad. In addition, students may contact World Endeavors any time prior to departure with questions.

Orientation:

After arriving in Florence, students participate in an in-depth orientation session which will familiarize students with the program, the city of Florence, and Italian culture in general.

Housing:

Shared student apartment housing is included.

All apartments are fully furnished and have all kitchen utensils necessary for cooking. The cost of utilities is not included. Students will share apartments with other study abroad participants, language study students, and local Italians. Living in an apartment in Italy is a great way to experience local culture and get to know the city of Florence on a personal, daily level.

Academics:

A wide variety of courses are available for various levels of Italian speakers. Absolute beginners and very advanced speakers can be equally accommodated. Download the PDF file on the sidebar of this page for course listings and detailed descriptions.

Architecture
Art History
Film Studies
History
Italian Language
Literature
Music History
Music Performance
Photography
Studio Art (painting, drawing, ceramics, and pottery)

Participants have the option to enroll in either an intensive semester-long Italian language course worth 15 credits (Option I), or to take a less intensive Italian course worth 6 credits and an additional 2-3 electives (Option II).

Participants who successfully complete the program will receive a transcript from a fully-accredited US university in Florida.

Courses: Students may choose from a wide range of courses for up to 15 credit hours per semester.

Participant Life:

Many people believe that the best way to study in Italy is to study in a place that allows for direct daily contact with Italian communities. World Endeavors' Study in Italy program was developed to provide students more experience with local communities and authentic Italian culture.

At least once a week, an optional cultural or social activity is organized for the students. These activities give students exposure to Italian culture and an opportunity to practice their Italian language skills. Examples include: free concerts at the school, Italian music listening workshops, conferences on subjects such as art, literature, Opera, or politics, Italian cinema screenings, and guided Art History tours around the city of Florence. These activities are free to students enrolled in the program.

In addition, every month or so, longer trips are scheduled to places of interest around Tuscany. Past excursions have included:

Day trip to Siena and San Gimignano
Day trip to Pisa and Lucca
Half-day trip to Tuscany's famous 'Chianti' region
Evenings at the Opera

Excursions listed above may incur an additional fee which is not included in the program fee.

Free internet access at the language school (during normal business hours) is also included.

Cost and Dates :

Duration	Semester	Academic Year	Summer Program
Costs	$12,985.00	$23,000.00	X

SPRING: January 31 - May 15, 2010
Application deadline: Nov. 15, 2009

Cost Includes:

Tuition
Transcript from a US university
Shared apartment accommodations
Orientation
Various student services and learning support services
Free internet access and Wi-Fi access during regular school hours
Various student activities
Airport pick up
Free cell phone rental and free incoming calls
Travel medical insurance

Not Included:

Round-trip airfare to Florence, Italy
Textbooks
Visa expenses
Housing security deposit (refundable)
Personal expenses, including meals and daily transportation

Study Abroad at Universities in New Zealand and Australia

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U.S. students discover the benefits of going to New Zealand and Australia for bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D.s degrees overseas

Watchtower at Otago University, New Zealand

For Ben Earwicker, the road to a Ph.D. in Latin American studies keeps passing through New Zealand, even though the small island nation is some 7,000 miles from the Mayan cultural focus of his research.

The 28-year-old assistant professor at Northwest Nazarene University in Nampa, Idaho, first went to New Zealand in 2003 to complete a 1-year master’s degree in international studies at the University of Otago in Dunedin through U.S. program provider AustraLearn / AsiaLearn / EuroLearn.

This year, despite being accepted to two U.S. doctoral programs, he decided to return again to New Zealand to complete a 3-year Ph.D., also at Otago.

Earwicker’s research and writing is focused on the struggles between the Mayan and non-Mayan groups in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.

“These are, by and large, marginalized groups,” he says.

He hopes his work will result in models for tourism projects or development initiatives.

“I want to apply my research to situations that will make life better for the Mayan people,” he says.

In weighing his decision to stay in the United States or go overseas to earn two advanced degrees, Earwicker compared institutional quality, academic reputation, tuition and living costs, program length, caliber of faculty and degree transferability.

New Zealand, especially with its offering of domestic tuition rates for first-time international Ph.D. enrollees, came out on top.

“It made sense financially,” says Earwicker, who is now living in New Zealand with his wife, Michelle, a master’s student at Otago. “It made sense academically. It came at a time in our lives when we could just pack up and go.”

Many Students Unaware of Degree Abroad Opt

In going beyond the boundaries of his home country to chase his passion and further his academic credentials, Earwicker exemplifies the growing possibilities for students willing to explore degrees abroad, whether a bachelor’s, master’s, professional or Ph.D.

“Many students want to study abroad during their college years, but when it comes to the idea of getting a degree abroad, most haven’t even considered it,” says Jennifer Flannery, manager of U.S. group relations for AustraLearn / AsiaLearn / EuroLearn, the North American contact for students and advisors exploring the degree options at eight universities in New Zealand and 25 in Australia.

The typical student who considers a degree abroad often has some international travel experience, is searching out a particular program of interest, or wants to achieve a blend of educational and personal growth through exposure to another country and culture, Flannery says.

“It is a different type of student who thinks about this avenue in the first place,” she says.

Most people assume North American students seeking degrees abroad study only the obvious subjects of international relations, languages and international business. In reality, they study in all subject areas, Flannery says, including arts, sciences, business, humanities, social sciences, environmental studies and tourism, as well as for professional degrees in veterinary science, law and teaching.

Of the degree students who come through AustraLearn’s doors, about 74% are getting post-graduate degrees, and of those, Ph.D.s make up about 2%, Flannery says. The remaining 26% are earning bachelor’s degrees, a growing area of interest.

With college costs rising, prospective degree students are very interested in how domestic costs compare with those at institutions abroad, Flannery says.

“For Americans, community college and in-state schools are most affordable, and that’s exactly why we have those options,” she says. “But students considering out-of-state or private schools for a bachelor’s degree will find the cost of earning degree in Australia and New Zealand overall is less given the shorter degree length of three years.”

In the United States, average annual costs for tuition and fees are $16,640 at an out-of-state public 4-year college and $23,712 at a private 4-year institution, according to the College Board’s 2007-2008 pricing trends.

By comparison, average annual costs for 2007 tuition in Australia and New Zealand (fees data in these countries is not typically grouped with tuition figures but don’t significantly increase costs) were about $14,700 for bachelor’s programs, according to AustraLearn data.

Roughly speaking, that translates to $44,100 in tuition for a bachelor’s degree from Australia or New Zealand vs. $66,560 for tuition and fees for a bachelor’s degree from an out-of-state public 4-year institution in the United States.

And when it comes to graduate programs in Australia and New Zealand, Flannery says, “tuition is often less than what you will find here, and the Stafford and PLUS loan amounts make it very doable.”

Australia Program Attracts Top U.S. Student

Chantelle Driever, a 23-year-old graduate of Case Western Reserve in Cleveland, is a biomedical engineering graduate now working on a Ph.D. in biomaterials at the University of Melbourne in Victoria, Australia, with scholarships paying her tuition and living expenses.

“I don’t think people even really consider it,” Driever says of earning a degree abroad. “It probably has a lot to do with the American culture to think the American education system is the best education system. People tend not to question.”

Driever initially sought to study abroad in Australia because she felt passionate about the country. As a result, she managed to line up a research co-op for a few months with the Commonwealth Scientific Industrial and Research Organization, a highly regarded government research organization.

“People don’t typically—especially for the science and engineering degrees—usually look outside the U.S.,” she says.

After her co-op, she returned to the United States to complete her degree at Case Western in 2007.

This year, she decided to return to Australia to begin the 3-year Ph.D. program at Melbourne.

“I’m actually working on nanoparticles for drug delivery,” she says, “so it’s very cutting edge.”

Among her reasons for choosing the program was its 3-year time frame.

“In the U.S., a Ph.D. can last a few million years,” she says.

Just because the program finishes in less time doesn’t mean it isn’t of high quality, Driever says. “In Australia and in my field, they’re very well known for biomedical engineering,” she says. “I, in particular, have some really good people I’m working with that are well known in the field.”

Driever believes her Australian Ph.D. will leave her well suited if she wants to come back to the United States and work.

“I’m sure I will be able to find a position, especially within the field I’ve been researching,” she says.

Jim Reis, president and chief executive officer of the World Trade Center Denver, an international business resource, says there is no simple answer to the question of how the U.S. marketplace reacts to a degree from abroad.

“A degree from a foreign institution certainly brings another dimension to a young person’s background and resume,” he says, “but has its best value when it complements business or industry experience.”

For Driever, just living abroad has helped her grow as a person.

“My whole personality and my whole take on life have changed,” she says. “It’s awesome, and it’s been such a good experience in so many ways.”

She thinks employers will recognize her choice as a sign of strength.

“I think people are really very interested to see someone who’s taken a chance to do something,” she says. “It’s a really good show of the character of the person.”

New Zealand: Small Country, Big Incentives

When it comes to attracting more students like Driever and Earwicker, New Zealand, in particular, dangles a major carrot.

That carrot is domestic tuition rates for international Ph.D. candidates of most academic categories - a major savings over international rates.

For Earwicker, the tuition benefit means he pays $3,000-$4,000 (US) vs. $14,000 (US) annually. By comparison, the U.S. programs he considered carried annual tuition price tags of about $24,000.

New Zealand made the policy change in part to stay internationally competitive in a knowledge community, said Mike Woods, North American Education Counselor for the New Zealand Ministry of Education.

Ph.D. enrollments from North America, for example, are up 163% since the program’s 2006 inception.

Further sweetening the pot, New Zealand allows the spouses of international students to seek employment and provides free schooling to children ages 5 to 18.

“We also needed to increase support from our institutions to ensure reasonable completion times and a vibrant research environment for doctoral students,” Woods says. “The policy change seems to be achieving these goals.”

Before he decided on New Zealand, Earwicker examined how the program at the University of Otago stacked up against his U.S. options.

“I was concerned about whether the degree would be recognized in the U.S. and Europe, so I was looking specifically for programs up to standards here in the United States and Europe,” he said.

New Zealand and Australia both have great track records, he says. As he focused on New Zealand, he found the resources surprising.

“The library, the research - it’s all really top notch,” he says.

Otago’s program seemed unique and multidisciplinary, with faculty from around the world who bring truly international perspectives on issues.

“It seemed to offer something I couldn’t find elsewhere,” Earwicker says.

He also looked at the time commitment. The doctoral program at the University of Otago is three years, which was a much more definitive end when compared to the fuzzier timelines of U.S. doctoral programs.

“It is similar in terms of rigor to a U.S. degree, but with it being research-based, you don’t have the course work,” he says, “and it’s a lot more independent.”

A major concern for Earwicker was how his degree would be perceived in the United States.

“I like the idea of having a U.S. Ph.D.,” he says, “but on all accounts the New Zealand Ph.D. is just as valuable to me.”

Once he chose the New Zealand program, Earwicker and his wife faced the tasks of moving and dealing with finances and work arrangements.

“To get that tuition benefit, we’ve had to move here,” he says. “I’ve worked it out with my university where I’m still employed by the university, taking a year of leave, and am committed to teach for another three years at a minimum when I get back.”

Earwicker recommends anyone considering a similar experience to examine costs.

During their first time living in New Zealand, the Earwickers found the cost of living in some areas, such as food, to be similar to the United States but higher in certain areas because of imported goods. A tube of mascara, for example, set back Michelle Earwicker more than $10.

Before they left the U.S., the Earwickers also had to find someone to rent their house in Idaho. Via the Internet, they manage their accounts and finances from afar.

“Even with property and commitments,” Earwicker says, “it’s still possible to study abroad.”

Study Abroad in Australia

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Immersion Enhances the Experience

The 26-hour trip from the United States to Australia not only transcends time, but catapults you into another world of culture, landscape, and adventure. As you miss a day on the flight, advancing steadily through time zones, it starts to set in that you are also going to miss your family, your friends, your school, your car, and other things that you associate with home. When you finally reach Australia, all of those worries have melted into a sleepy numbness that leaves you paralyzed by the blazing sun and warm smiles that welcome you to your new temporary home.

Inspiration

As a sophomore in college, I had always planned to study abroad my junior year. I quickly set my sights on my school’s study abroad program to the University of Queensland in Brisbane, Australia. I imagined surfing at Bondi Beach in Sydney, camping outside in the Outback, and snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef. Brisbane is literally on the opposite side of the world from my hometown, which made it that much more appealing to me. I was ready to venture out and experience anything that Australia had to offer culturally and physically, and during my stay I had the opportunity to explore Australia’s vast terrain while also learning more about myself in the process.

Preparation

When I was planning my 6-month study abroad trip, it was important to know such details as where I would be living, what the average temperature in Australia would be while I was there, how I would handle money, and what classes I would be taking for the semester. Program coordinators and mentors were available both in America and in Australia, making the guidance I received plentiful and helpful. In fact, my program advisor in Australia recently created a website for students traveling abroad in Australia which offers tips and advice. Additionally, she has published a book titled “Studying Abroad in Australia,” which serves as a pre-departure guide for students. Although I did not read any travel books before my trip, it is relatively easy to find study abroad experiences and testimonials from students on a variety of websites.

I packed clothes for the appropriate summer season and researched banks in Brisbane so that I could open an account there and transfer money from my American bank account. I found that this was the easiest way to deposit and withdraw money in Australia, since I would be there for 6 months. I chose classes once I was enrolled via the University of Queensland’s registrar system, and used a map of the campus to see where my classes would be held. I felt fully prepared for my living and academic situations prior to arriving in Australia.

Adaptation

Once abroad, the most difficult challenge involved setting aside the traditional notion of being a tourist and accepting that I had to fully immerse myself in Australia in order to gain the most from the trip. For the next six months, I was an Australian. It was very important to me to make friends with Australians quickly, and I was able to do so because I was living in a college with 250 other students, some of whom were from Zimbabwe and South Africa, though the majority were Australian. I have come to learn that many study abroad programs place students in an off-campus apartment with other American students, many times from their same home university. I find this counterintuitive to the mission of study abroad, which is to learn about native culture and build relationships in addition to attending classes. Luckily, my study abroad program provided me with the opportunity to meet Australians on my very first day in the country – some of whom remain my friends today.

Immersion into Daily Life

The importance of meeting native Australians meant that I was accepted in social circles and invited to participate in activities such as team sports and clubs. My Australian friends were pleased to introduce me to Brisbane nightlife, and offered up which tourist traps to avoid. I also went on two home visits with friends to meet their families and see the neighborhoods where they grew up. These personal glimpses into the lives of Australians were special to me, and provided time to talk intimately about cultural differences as well as Australian’s views of Americans. My Australian friends were also able to give me tips about public transit and the best vacation spots to visit.

Getting Around

One of the things I wish I had known more about before arriving in Australia is how the train and bus systems in major cities work. My American friends and I often found ourselves lost in the city looking for a bus stop and walking without direction in search of a way home. However, once we learned the bus routes for our university stop, travel around Brisbane became much easier. Doing research on websites about bus fare, student discounts, and where to buy bus passes made public transportation easier to manage and less expensive than taking a taxi.

Exploring Australia

In addition to the trips my friends and I took to various beaches near Brisbane, the study abroad program also organized trips in order to show us other sides of Australia. We took a long weekend trip to Sydney where a personal tour guide showed us around day and night. Often, on such trips, we would stay in hostels--which is the cheapest way to lodge in Australia. Similar to Europe, hostels are clean and inexpensive places to stay and often plentiful and easy to find. The study abroad program also provided an Outback trip for us in which we stayed on a 5,000-acre cattle farm with a family that lives and operates it. They allow for visitors, provided the visitors work on the farm during the day. During our week in the Outback, we learned how to feed the cattle, set out pumps for drinking water, chainsaw prickly pear trees, and tend the orphan calves. This experience is one I will never forget and feel lucky to have joined in.

For spring break vacation from school, some American friends and I went on a sailing trip to the Whitsunday Islands, which has beaches hailed by National Geographic as the most serene and precious in the world. We spent five days aboard a sailboat with 12 other travelers from around the world. Our daytime activities included sea kayaking, snorkeling, as well as visits to the islands.

Academic Immersion

At the university, I chose to take classes that would help me learn more about Australian culture, such as courses in Australian literature and Australian marine life. As an English major, I found the Australian literature course very interesting and informative. While early American literature courses consist of captivity narratives and stories told in the Puritan tradition, Australian literature focuses on the Aboriginals and the consequences of being a colonial nation. The Australian marine life course offered students studying abroad in Australia to learn about amazing habitats, such as the Great Barrier Reef, the many rivers and estuaries, and the native animals that inhabit these places. Enrolling in a class like this was a very valuable tool which proved helpful when studying Australian wildlife. The class also took two field trips accompanied by the professor and teaching assistants to explore the coast of Australia and conduct marine research projects of our own. The two field trips were to Heron Island and Stradbroke Island, both of which offered chances to see what for me were exotic animals, to experience tide changes, and to see coral reef formations.

Lessons Learned

Planning ahead for a study abroad trip is essential in order to make sure you will experience some of the many facets of life in a new place. In addition to securing information on living arrangements and financial needs, it is also important to learn what the food will be like, and how to get around your new location. However, some things cannot be planned and will come naturally once you are abroad. Making friends quickly and being willing to adapt and explore new situations is a must for anyone studying abroad. While a 6-month or 1-year trip seems like a long time, it passes very quickly once immersed in a new culture and a new way of living.

Since returning from Australia, my interest in traveling and experiencing new cultures has been stimulated. Instead of regretting that I did not get to visit places like Thailand while I was abroad, I look forward to traveling to the Pacific region again in the future. I also returned with a calmer nature and more optimistic outlook on life that I believe I picked up from my Australian friends. Their motto of “no worries” rings true in terms of how they live their lives and enjoy each and every day. Australia is a country of thriving cities, such as Melbourne, Brisbane, and Sydney. Nevertheless, a laid-back attitude pervades everyday activities. I find myself reflecting about my study abroad trip to Australia often, and retelling stories to my friends whenever I can. Studying abroad and immersion in Australian life has made me a better-rounded person with broader cultural experience, which has contributed to a better understanding of my limits and abilities.

Why Choose to Study in Greece

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International students are fortunate to be able to choose from a great number of locations which offer Study Abroad Programs. There are three very good reasons why one would choose to study in Athens, Greece at City University: Greece and Athens have a unique history which has allowed them to make enormous contributions to western civilization, philosophy and thought. Studying in Greece allows students to savor that history, to visit important heritage sights and to experience how Ancient Greece has formed present-day academics. Athens remains at the crossroads of Western and Eastern civilizations. As the leading economic power in the Balkans and in South - East Europe, Greece manifests much of what is good about the new economy, which is based on emerging technologies and research and development within the globalised world.
Living as a student in contemporary Athens, you will have the opportunity to experience Mediterra¬nean life and customs and to benefit from living at the hub of a rich and historical region. As well as easy access to Greece's islands and historical sites, you will be able to travel easily to the North (Prague, Vienna, Paris, London), to the West (Rome, Barcelona), to the East (Constantinople, Beirut, Damascus) and to the South (North Africa, Egypt and the Holy Lands). Along with all of the climatic, historical and social attractions, you should be fully aware of the academic opportunities that are provided and described beyond. Remind yourself: Democracy, Harmony, Music, Mathematics, Gastronomy, Architecture, Logic, Euphoria and Psychology are only some of the important words that we use with Greek roots!

Top Study Abroad Countries

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Here are the top 20 most popular study abroad country destinations for US college students. The data is current for 2008. Our observations are as follows:

Europe maintains 6 of the top 10 destination countries for studying abroad. Currently 57.4% of US students choose to study abroad in European countries.
Asia has experienced tremendous recent growth with about 10.3% of students choosing to study there.
Latin American countries account for 15% of U.S. study abroad students each year.
For the 2006/2007 academic year, China, Argentina, South Africa, Ecuador, and India all experienced a high growth rate of over 20%, while France and Japan had growth of 10% over the previous year.
Interestingly, the top 5 countries account for more than half of all students with 50.4% of the total. The top 20 countries account for 82.1% of all countries.
All countries in the top 20 experienced positive year over year growth with the exception of Australia, Mexico, and Costa Rica.

**Top 20 Destinations of U.S. Study Abroad Students**
Rank	Country	Students 2005/06	Students 2006/07	Yearly Change	% of All Countries
	World Total	223,534	241,791	8.5	100
1	United Kingdom	32,109	32,705	1.9	14.6
2	Italy	26,078	27,831	6.7	12.5
3	Spain	21,881	24,055	9.7	10.7
4	France	15,602	17,233	10.5	7.7
5	China	8,830	11,064	25.3	4.9
6	Australia	10,980	10,747	-2.1	4.8
7	Mexico	10,022	9,461	-5.6	4.2
8	Germany	6,858	7,355	7.2	3.3
9	Ireland	5,499	5,785	5.2	2.6
10	Costa Rica	5,518	5,383	-2.4	2.4
11	Japan	4,411	5,012	13.6	2.2
12	Argentina	2,865	3,617	26.2	1.6
13	Greece	3,227	3,417	5.9	1.5
14	South Africa	2,512	3,216	28	1.4
15	Czech Republic	2,846	3,145	10.5	1.4
16	Chile	2,578	2,824	9.6	1.3
17	Ecuador	2,171	2,813	29.6	1.3
18	Austria	2,792	2,813	0.6	1.3
19	New Zealand	2,542	2,718	6.9	1.2
20	India	2,115	2,627	24.2	1.2

Study Abroad in Madrid

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Madrid is Spain's capital and largest city, so you might expect to cross off a number of items on your "Things I Must See Before I Go Home" list. Instead, once you've hit up the Prado, you're free to enjoy Madrid simply by living in it. Get to know each barrio's distinct personality. Become a regular at your favorite tapas bar. Readjust your clock so that dancing until dawn feels normal. Save crossing items off the list for weekend trips out of town. Spend your time in Madrid living like a madrileño.

photo by Ramón Durán

INSIGHT FROM THE INSIDE

"Be prepared for the fast-paced lifestyle of the big city," says Anna Brautigam, who studied in Madrid with CEA. And, she warns, "You are going to eat fried food, and a lot of it. If you are on a diet, good luck."

Universities

Complutense University of Madrid is the top public university in Spain. Its alumni, including King Juan Carlos I and former President José María Aznar, have played important roles in Spanish government since the Enlightenment. Foreign students take specialized language courses but have access to the same university amenities as Spanish students. Founded in 1995, Antonio de Nebrija University is a small, private university named after the first grammarian of the Spanish language. Not surprisingly, it takes language classes very seriously. Foreign students can take courses in a variety of disciplines side-by-side with Spanish students or concentrate on improving their language skills.

photo by Christopher Hunter

A Night on the Town

Malasaña was ground zero for "la movida," the cultural movement that followed the death of Franco in 1975. It remains an affordable, "alternative" barrio, even if some places seem stuck in the '80s. Try Bar El 2d, Antigua Hueveria and La Vía Láctea. Or explore Santa Ana - Huertas (more upscale and trendy), Moncloa-Argüelles (popular with students) and Chueca (gay friendly).

Eat This

Lunch is the main meal of the day in Spain, usually served around 2pm or 3pm. Choose the "menu," a fixed-price, three-course meal served almost everywhere. Typical Madrid dishes include cocido (chickpea stew), bocadillo de calamares (fried squid sandwich), patatas bravas (fried potatoes in spicy tomato sauce) and callos a la madrileña (tripe, for the adventurous).

Sites to See

The Plaza Mayor is Madrid's town square--former site of royal coronations and Inquisitional executions, current home to overpriced drinks and tourist kitsch. Still, the 17th-century arcaded plaza is a site to see. Duck out any of the nine entrances to begin exploring the city.

The Prado is it when it comes to art in Spain. This is the place to see the best of the Spanish school, including Velázquez's "The Family of Felipe IV (Las Meninas)", Goya's "The 3rd of May 1808 in Madrid" and El Greco's "The Nobleman with His Hand on His Chest." Plus it's got some serious non-Spanish talent, such as Bosch's trippy "Garden of Earthly Delights" and Fra Angelico's moving "Annunciation." Hit it in a few two-hour visits or risk overdosing.

photo by Alexander B.

Bullfighting kicks up quite a controversy. Is it cultural or just cruel? Bottom line: If you can't stomach seeing an animal killed, this is not the event for you. If you're up to it, buy a seat in the shade at Madrid's Plaza de Toros Las Ventas and get ready for a quintessentially Spanish experience, with pageantry and drama galore.

Weekend Trip

Just an hour from Madrid, Toledo showcases the layering of Spanish history. You'll find Roman ruins, Moorish Alcazar, Jewish synagogues, Catholic churches and Franco's barracks set amid a maze of narrow streets in this town perched on a hill. El Greco spent the latter part of his life in this city, and the cathedral's gallery displays one of his masterpieces, "The Disrobing of Christ." (Big El Greco fans should also view "The Burial of Count Orgaz" in Santo Tomé Church.)

Study Abroad in Granada

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Granada, the jewel of Andalucía, is a feast for the senses. Drink in the beauty of the Alhambra, Spain's greatest treasure and most visited tourist attraction. Hear flamenco's echoing heel stomps and hand claps. Smell sweet mint tea flowing in the Muslim tea shops. Walk the winding, cobblestoned streets of the city's older sections. And taste your way through the tapas bars. Granada is a perfect place to start your love affair with Spain.

photo by Gabirro G.

INSIGHT FROM THE INSIDE

"My favorite local places were tapas [bars]," says Angelina Gomes of Haverford College, who studied with IES in Granada. "You have to take the initiative to meet locals... I went for tapas a lot and got to know different aspects of the city and culture."

University

Founded in 1531, the University of Granada is one of the premier Spanish universities. Federico García Lorco is perhaps the best known alumnus. Granada is very much a college town with a large student population and university outposts across the city. With the city's history of Moorish rule, Granada is a great place to take classes on Islamic culture and art. If your Spanish is up to it, you can even enroll in classes with Spanish students.

A Night on the Town

Enjoy the nightlife in the Albaicín, Granada's old Muslim neighborhood. Start at sunset with stunning views of the Alhambra from the Mirador de San Nicholás. With recent North African immigrants renewing the Islamic flavor of this area, try felafel or kebab for dinner. Next sample some of the bars along the Carrera del Darro. (Prefer something louder? Head back toward Calle de Elvira in the center of town.)

photo by Pablo Ferguson

Eat This

In Granada, tapas still come free with drinks. (Elsewhere in Spain, you may have to pay for these small plates.) A tapa can be nearly anything--from a slice of Iberico ham, fried potatos or a bowl of plump olives to grilled shrimp, broad beans with ham or even paella. If you go for tapas, remember that they are not appetizers but a gradual meal. Expect to eat only one or two per stop.

Sites to See

Is "paradise on earth" overdoing it? It's hard not to gush when describing the Alhambra, the last stronghold of Spain's Moorish rulers. The complex of palaces, towers, patios and gardens is home to gorgeous tilework, intricate "stalactite" and "honeycomb" ceilings and dazzling fountains. Two highlights among many: The Court of Lions, where the sultan is said to have enjoyed his harem, contains a fountain resting on the backs of 12 marble lions. And the gardens of Generalife, the summer palace within the complex, are darn near perfect. Reserve tickets in advance. Crowds are smaller on summer evenings and in winter.

The Sacromonte area is home to Granada's Roma population, also known as gypsies or gitanos. Traditional homes were created in caves carved out of the soft rock of the hillside. The main street is tourist-centric, and over-priced flamenco clubs abound. Still, a little exploring can reveal fascinating corners--and the views of the Alhambra and Albaicín are free.

photo by Gaspar Cerrano

After climbing the hills of Granada, indulge your weary body at the hammam, modern-day Arabic baths. Enjoy alternating hot and cold soaks and a short massage.

Weekend Trip

Winter visitors can enjoy skiing and other snow activities in the Sierra Nevada mountains, only 25 minutes from Granada by car. Mulhacén is the highest peak in Spain and hosts Europe's southernmost ski resort. Do check conditions, though, as snow is not as abundant as it once was. In that case, head south to the beaches of the Costa Tropical. Thanks, global warming!

Study Abroad in Salamanca

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Salamanca is a college town from way back. The University of Salamanca, the third oldest university in Europe, drives the economy, the culture and the bustling nightlife of this Renaissance city. Known as La Ciudad Dorado or Golden City, Salamanca's glow comes from the local sandstone used in its buildings--and from the youthful influx of students drawn to its prestigious university each year.

photo by Seiho U.

University

The University of Salamanca was founded in 1218. It had its heyday in the 16th century, drawing students from across Europe with its reputation for forward-thinking faculty. Female professor Beatriz Galindo, tutor to Queen Isabella and her daughters, taught rhetoric here. After years of confinement by the Inquisition, it is said that Biblical scholar Fray Luis de León began his first lecture back at the University of Salamanca with the words, "As I was saying yesterday..." Miguel de Cervantes likely studied here, and Christopher Columbus may have lectured here on his famous find. Today, the university is once again a magnet for international students, especially language students, as the purest Castilian Spanish is spoken in Salamanca.

A Night on the Town

Ever danced in a convent? The disco Camelot's space is rented from the Convento de las Úrsulas, a nunnery nearby. The King Arthur decorations may be a bit silly, but the DJs are good, the international student clientele is enthusiastic and the party goes until 6am. It's definitely one of Salamanca's best nights out.

photo by Paco C.

Eat This

This is not the place to become a vegetarian. The region around Salamanca provides a rich, acorn-heavy diet for local pigs, producing some truly succulent swine. Enjoy these special porkers in cochinillo al fuego (roasted suckling pig), farinato (white sausage often served with eggs) and hornazo (meat pie). Vegetarians, be warned: Spaniards are always slipping pork into dishes that sound like they should be meat-free, such as the local cocido (garbanzo bean stew).

Sites to See

Salamanca's greatest draw since the 13th century is the university itself. In particular, the 16th century entrance facade is a remarkable feat of stonework rich with detailed figures, including Isabel and Fernando front and center and a famous frog on a skull. Spot the frog without help, and the word is that you'll ace your classes.

Plaza Mayor is the center point of town, a great spot to meet friends or just watch the world go by. One of Europe's loveliest squares, it glows gold in sunlight and is equally beautiful lit up at night. Plaza Mayor once held bullfights, but today you'll have to settle for the shops, cafes and bars housed in its arcades.

photo by Francisco Antunes

The "new" cathedral (begun in 1513) and its older counterpart (from the 12th century) sit side by side, making it easy to visit both in one go. Like the university, the new cathedral sports an ornate, plateresque front. Here the game is to find the astronaut carving--a recent addition to the facade when it underwent maintenance, not proof of time travel, as some suspect.

Weekend Trip

Just an hour and a half by bus from Salamanca, Ciudad Rodrigo is a medieval town surrounded by a pretty impressive wall--another remnant of the Arab-Christian battling that rocked the region for so long. Rather cross another European country off your list? The bus ride to Porto, Portugal takes about five hours.

Study Abroad in Alicante

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With moderate, Mediterranean weather year round, Alicante provides a beautiful seaside setting for learning Spanish. While tourism is important to the moderate-sized city, it is not dominated by sightseers like some nearby locales. Instead, Alicante offers a livable balance of real life and night life.

photo by Jose Antonio Andres

Universities

If you study in Alicante, you'll likely be taking classes at the University of Alicante -- a young, dynamic Spanish university. Language teachers have extensive experience working with international students. Complementary courses expand comprehension of both Spanish language and culture through the study of film, literature, art and more.

A Night on the Town

Spaniards like to start the evening with el paseo, a stroll through town--or in Alicante, along the marina. Do some people watching, eye the fanciest yachts and debate names for your future boat. This is a good way to pass the considerable hours until the locals eat dinner. And since clubs also get going late, take your time at dinner.

Eat This

Valencia, Alicante's home region, is famous for paella. It is cooked in a large, shallow platter over an open wood fire. While paella can contain chicken, rabbit, seafood or a mix of the above, it should definitely be made with the local, short-grain rice. The highlight: A well-cooked paella has a layer of delicious crusty rice at the bottom of the pan.

photo by Paco Peña

Sites to See

The Bonfires of Saint John -- a mash-up of pagan solstice celebrations and the feast day of Saint John--take place in Alicante in June. Astoundingly complex effigies are torched in a frenzy of flame, fireworks and fiesta. If you can't be there for the festival itself, check out the Museo de Fogueres for samples of the beautiful, often satiric effigies and other bonfire-related exhibits.

Taken by Castilian forces on Santa Barbara's feast day in 1248, the Castillo de Santa Bárbara has its origins in medieval Moorish rule. The castle features ocean views and a nice sculpture garden--or a dungeon and drawbridges, if that's more your style. Lit up at night, it is a lovely sight at the top of Mount Benacantil.

One of the main reasons to choose to study in Alicante is, of course, the beach. Wide, sandy Playa San Juan just north of town is considered one of the most beautiful spots on the Costa Blanca. Breathe in the Mediterranean air and work on your Spanish eavesdropping skills!

Weekend Trip

Visit nearby Valencia's Ciudad de las Artes y las Ciencias, a huge complex with dramatic, futuristic architecture by Santiago Calatrava. You could try to see everything--planetarium, Imax theater, opera house, science museum, gardens--but make L'Oceanogràfic your priority. Almost entirely underground, it is the largest aquarium in Europe and includes beluga whales, sharks, penguins, walruses and much more.

Study Abroad in Shanghai

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If Beijing has the gravitas of an elder statesman, Shanghai is the brash nouveau riche elbowing onto the social scene. The city is unapologetically focused on making money and shamelessly status-conscious. The pace--of business, of traffic, of hot spots and stock tips--is fast. Take a deep breath, hold onto your hat and step into the rush.

INSIGHT FROM THE INSIDE
"I was able to get outside of my comfort zone and experience a new life of independence," says Andrew Stuckey, a student from the College of Wooster who spent Fall 2008 at Fudan University in Shanghai. "I wanted to get away to a big city. Shanghai was that city, although it was a little bigger than I had imagined!"

photo by Jose Maria Cuellar

Universities

Shanghai Normal University provides high-quality Chinese language courses for international students. The university also offers business electives in English, such as "China's Economic Development," a look at how the economy has evolved and the benefits and challenges of such rapid growth. Fudan University, the most prestigious school in Shanghai, also offers Chinese language courses and electives for international students in Chinese literature, history, economy, philosophy and law.

Night On The Town

You'll never lack for night life in Shanghai. Get an overview of the scene from the rooftop terrace at New Heights, one of the Bund's best bars. Drink up and drink in the views of the Pudong skyline glimmering across the way. Or try Face, a country house in the middle of Shanghai. Kick back gin and tonics beside an English lawn or lounge on an opium bed--provided you can choke back any anti-colonial rhetoric and relax into the fantasy.

photo by Wolfgang Staudt

Eat This

Cap off a visit to the beautiful Yuyuan Gardens & Bazaar with a taste of the "xiaolongbao" from Nanxiang Restaurant. These pork "soup dumplings"--so called because the thin dough contains boiling hot broth--are a Shanghai treasure. Take a small bite of dough, sip out the broth, then dip the dumpling in vinegar before polishing it off. Repeat.

Sites to See

Shanghai has a wealth of architectural treasures--from the modern skyline of Pudong on the east side of the Huangpu River to the colonial grandeur of the Bund on the west. Get a closer look on a walking tour with UK-trained architect Anne Warr, author of "The Shanghai Architecture Guide" .

It's not easy to get a handle on thousands of years of Chinese history, but the Shanghai Museum is here to help. With 120,000+ exhibits and helpful English explanatory panels, the museum deserves an extended visit. In particular, its collection of bronzeware is top-notch--the building's design is based on a bronze "ding," or cooking pot.

Perhaps the best souvenir you can take home is not a teapot or carved wooden dragon but a bespoke suit cut to your dimensions from the Dongjiadu Cloth Market. Bring pictures of the style you like, pick out fabric at the market and be prepared to wait two to six weeks.

photo by Jose Maria Cuellar

Weekend Trip

Head to Mogan Shan, a bamboo forest made famous in a scene from "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon." Mogan Shan has no night life, no crowds and no tourist attractions you'll need to cross off your list. It's the perfect escape from Shanghai.

Study Abroad in Barcelona

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Barcelona is a cosmopolitan Spanish city with seaside charm. If you are planning to study abroad in Barcelona, you will discover that the city eats well, dresses well, works hard, and dances late into the night. While you're probably interested in studying abroad in Spain to learn Spanish, you'll soon find that Barcelona's residents actually speak Catalan, the language of the Catalonia region. Don't worry. Castilian Spanish is understood everywhere, and your ear will soon adapt to Barcelona's particular way of speaking.

photo by MorBCN- (Flickr user)

INSIGHT FROM THE INSIDE

"I thought studying abroad in Spain would be an easier workload than back home, but I’m putting in some long hours," says Precious Scott of Clark Atlanta University who studied in Barcelona with CEA. "I particularly enjoy the Media and Politics course."

Universities

Founded in 1450 and set amid beautiful gardens, the University of Barcelona is one of Spain's premier research universities. The school has a long history of hosting international study abroad students and usually welcomes over 1,000 on campus each year.

The Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona opened in 1968, the product of a dramatic time for student activism across Europe. It has quickly become a respected education leader. In addition to language courses, international students can take classes in history, business, humanities and more.

A Night On the Town

Enjoy your first drink of the night at Gimlet, a quietly hip cocktail bar. When you're ready for something livelier, head to the Port Olimpic and clubs such as CDLC (Carpe Diem Lounge Club) or Bikini. There are tourists galore on the dance floors, but the beachside locale is hard to beat.

photo by MorBCN- (Flickr user)

Eat This

You'll try chocolat con churros--a thick, warm, chocolate pudding-like deliciousness served with freshly fried dough sticks--because it's Spain's impossible-to-resist dessert. But to really taste Catalonia, you've got to savor pan con tomate. Slices of hearty bread are toasted, rubbed with garlic and raw tomato, then drizzled with oil and salt.

Sites to See

Take your first walk in Barcelona along the city's main pedestrian drag, the Ramblas. Start at the Placa de Catalunya and head downhill. Grab a snack in the Mercat de la Boqueria, one of Europe's finest food markets. Continue your walk, enjoying the street theater and keeping an eye out for pickpockets, until you arrive at the Columbus monument, where the explorer was welcomed home after his wanderings.

Nothing says Barcelona like the marvelous, idiosyncratic architecture of Antoni Gaudí. Debate the meaning of the dragon (dinosaur?) roof of Casa Batlló. Marvel at the Moorish delights of Casa Vicens. Ponder La Pedrera's curves. But above all, don't miss Gaudí's unfinished masterwork, La Sagrada Familia church, in all its quirky glory.

photo by Richard Gillespie

Forget flamenco. If you want to see true Spanish passion, catch a match at Camp Nou Stadium, home to FC Barcelona, affectionately known as Barça. The Camp Nou tour takes you through the tunnel and onto the pitch--in the footsteps of football (soccer) greats including Johan Cruyff and Ronaldinho. Jeanna Occhiogrosso, a student from the College of William and Mary who studied in Barcelona with IES, says, "I have found that the best way to become closer to both my host family and also to many other Catalan people is to follow and support soccer."

Weekend Trip

To study abroad in Barcelona is to enjoy both the city and its surroundings. For a change of pace, take a cable car to the mountaintop monastery of Montserrat, a famed Catalan pilgrimage site. Visit La Moreneta, the Black Virgin, who is the patron of Catalonia. Peek into the caves where hermits once contemplated mysteries. And enjoy the views of dramatic gorges and soaring stone pinnacles from the monks' snug, rocky perch.

Study Abroad in Xi'an

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If you're wary of getting smothered by the sheer mass of Beijing or Shanghai, try studying abroad in Xi'an. Heaven for history enthusiasts, this diverse city has prestigious universities, a thriving Muslim quarter and some terracotta warriors you may have heard about.

photo by Simon Hooks

INSIGHT FROM THE INSIDE
"Xi'an has a very good atmosphere compared to places like Shanghai or Beijing," says Mark Vranicar, who has lived in Xi'an for three years and blogs at markschinablog.blogspot.com. "Xi'an is also a very manageable city. It's big, but not sprawling." Mark further opines, "From the old Muslim men in white kufi skull hats to the Buddhist monks that I occasionally see on my walks to work while passing the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, there is a lot of diversity within Xi'an."

Universities

Xi'an Jiaotong University is a research-oriented university with a focus on science and engineering. International students following the Chinese language program have the opportunity to pursue elective courses, including calligraphy, Chinese music, cooking, paper cutting and more.

Northwest University, the oldest university in the region, provides small language courses, usually around 15 people. Supplemental classes, such as ancient literature, martial arts and politics/diplomatic relations, provide insight into Chinese culture.

A night on the town

Catch the Tang Dynasty Dinner Show. It's a little bit of Las Vegas mixed with with a 1,000-year-old tradition--plus you get a dinner of delicious dumplings. If tickets are sold out, stay with the Vegas theme and head to the Big Goose Pagoda's north square for the evening show of Asia's largest light and music fountain.

photo by Stefan Schneider

Eat this

You like lamb, right? You'll fit right in Xi'an, where the signature dish is Yang Rou Pao Muo, or lamb soup. The Muslim quarter also has tasty lamb kebabs. But don't worry. You'll still find plenty of noodles and steamed dumplings to be had.

Sites to see

If you study in Xi'an, or even just pass through, you're sure to visit Pit No. 1 and the rows of stunning terracotta warriors who guard the mausoleum of China's first emperor. Notice the faces: each is unique. Together they reflect the diversity of the emperor's subjects--something mirrored in Xi'an even today. The warriors deserve their fame, but the Grand Mosque, an intriguing mix of Islamic and Chinese artistry, is underappreciated. Part of the fun is shopping in the Muslim quarter around the mosque before or after your visit. Don't miss the persimmon pastries ("shizi bing").

photo by Stefan Schneider

If you're looking for a little exercise, rent a bike and take a lap around Xi'an on the old city wall. Need fresh air? Hike Hua Shan, one of the five sacred mountains of Taoism. If you're really daring, start the hike at midnight and arrive at the top in time for sunrise. It's not for the faint of heart--or those prone to vertigo--but it is truly beautiful.

Weekend trip

Take the night train to Pingyao, a UNESCO world heritage site. This amazingly intact traditional Han city from the 14th century is touristy, it's true. But step off the main drag and you'll be swept back centuries. The view of the city from the south gate wall is especially nice.

Arabic Overseas Flagship Program

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In addition to Arabic language courses and specially designed content classes that are taught in Arabic, ALIF scholars participate in a study abroad experience designed especially for flagship students at Alexandria University in Egypt. All flagship students are required to study overseas through the Arabic Overseas Flagship Program for a full year when they reach Advanced proficiency. In addition, many students also study abroad for a summer when they reach Intermediate proficiency.

Study Abroad Program, Egypt - Summer 2008

ALIF scholars Elizabeth Stein, Robert Wright and Zaahir Turfe studied Arabic during the summer of 2008 for eight weeks as part of the overseas Arabic flagship program on the campus of Alexandria University in Alexandra, Egypt

Study Abroad Program, Syria - Summer 2007

Rashad Issa, Zaahir Turfe and Ahmad Mousa participated in a pre-flagship study abroad program in Damascus, Syria during the summer of 2007

Study Abroad in China

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BACKGROUND

For centuries China stood as a leading civilization, outpacing the rest of the world in the arts, medicine and sciences. But in the 19th and early 20th centuries, China was beset by civil unrest, major famines, military defeats, and foreign occupation. After World War II, the Communists under MAO Zedong established a dictatorship that, while ensuring China’s sovereignty, imposed strict controls over everyday life and cost the lives of tens of millions of people. After 1978, his successor DENG Xiaoping gradually introduced market-oriented reforms and decentralized economic decision-making. Output quadrupled by 2000. Political controls remain tight while economic controls continue to be relaxed.

LOCATION

Eastern Asia, bordering the East China Sea, Korea Bay, Yellow Sea, and South China Sea, between North Korea and Vietnam.
Area: total 9,596,960 sg km
Currency Code: Yuan( CNY or RMB)
Exchange Rate: per dollar---7.90 CNY (2006)

ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISIONS

China has 23 provinces, 5 autonomous regions, 4 municipalities and 2 Special Administrative Regions (Hong Kong and Macao).

ECONOMY-OVERVIEW

In late 1978 the Chinese leadership began moving the economy from a sluggish, inefficient, Soviet-style centrally planned economy to a more market-oriented system. Whereas the system operates within a political framework of strict Communist control, the economic influence of non-state organizations and individual citizens has been steadily increasing. The authorities switched to a system of household and village responsibility in agriculture in place of the old collectivization increased the authority of local officials and plant managers in industry, permitted a wide variety of small-scale enterprises in services and light manufacturing, and opened the economy to increased foreign trade and investment. The result has been a quadrupling of GDP since 1978. measured on a purchasing power parity basis, in 2004, China stood as the second-largest economy in the world after the US , although in per capita terms the country is still poor. Agriculture and industry have posted major gains, especially in coastal areas near Hong Kong and opposite Taiwan, where foreign investment has helped spur output of both domestic and export goods. The leadership, however, often has experienced - as a result of its hybrid system - the worst results of socialism (bureaucracy and lassitude) and of capitalism (windfall gains and growing income disparities). China thus has periodically backtracked, retightening central controls at intervals. The government has struggled to (a) collect revenues due from provinces, businesses, and individuals; (b) reduce corruption and other economic crimes; and (c) keep afloat the large state-owned enterprises, many of which had been shielded from competition by subsidies and had been losing the ability to pay full wages and pensions. From 100 to 150 million surplus rural workers are adrift between the villages and the cities, many subsisting through part-time low-paying jobs. Popular resistance, changes in central policy, and loss of authority by rural cadres have weakened China’s population control program, which is essential to maintaining long-term growth in living standards. Another long-term threat to growth is the deterioration in the environment, notably air pollution, soil erosion, and the steady fall of the water table especially in the north. China continues to lose arable land because of erosion and economic development. Beijing says it will intensify efforts to stimulate growth through spending on infrastructure - such as water control and power grids - and poverty relief and through rural tax reform aimed at eliminating arbitrary local levies on farmers. Accession to the World Trade Organization helps strengthen China’s ability to maintain strong growth rates but at the same time puts additional pressure on the hybrid system of strong political controls and growing market influences. China has benefited from a huge expansion in computer internet use, with 94 million users at the end of 2004. Foreign investment remains a strong element in china’s remarkable economic growth. Shortages of electric power and raw materials may affect industrial output in 2005. More power generating capacity is schedules to come online in 2006. In its rivalry with India as an economic power, China has a lead in the absorption of technology, the rising prominence in world trade, and the alleviation of poverty; India has one important advantage in its relative mastery of the English language, but the number of competent Chinese English-speakers is growing rapidly.

HISTORY

China, one of the four oldest civilizations in the world, has a written history of 4,000 years and boasts rich cultural relics and historical sites. It is the inventor of compass, paper, gunpowder and printing. The Great Wall, the Grand Canal and the Karez irrigation systems are three great ancient engineering projects built 2,000 years ago. Now they are the symbols of the rich culture heritage of the Chinese nation. China has gone over a long history of primitive society, slavery society, feudal society and semi-feudal semi-colonial society and the present socialist society.

CLIMATE

Extremely diverse; tropical in South to Sub arctic in North

LANGUAGES

The national language is Putonghua (the common speech) or Mandarin, which is one of the five working languages at the United Nations. Most of the 55 minority nationalities have their own languages. Cantonese is one of the local dialects of southern China. As a written language, Chinese has been used for 6,000 years.

Austin College

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Austin College students experienced the first JanTerm in 1968 and the four-week term that allows in-depth research or investigation of new interests through on-campus courses, career exploration through internships, travel courses, or independent projects remains one of the most popular features of the College among students 40 years later.

JanTerm is not unique to Austin College; some 50 plus schools offer a similar short term — some in January, others in May. Still, the opportunities of JanTerm — like studying the World War II while walking the actual battlefields or hiking in the rain forests of Bolivia in connection with studies of the environment — are described as life-changing by many students. International courses are often the flashiest; the courses on campus can have similar impact.

With courses taking them from Canada to Timbuktu and points around the globe, students travel on foot, by bike and by boat, on camels and elephants, and through all kinds of environments to discover the world around them.

A Small World After All

Mary Gwen Hulsey, in cap, finds Austin College Kangaroos everywhere she goes. She discovered students from the “Pyramids, Pharaohs, and Mosques” course in Egypt this January. Ben Hulsey is at the far right.

Ben and Mary Gwen Chapin Hulsey of Houston, both 1968 graduates of Austin College, were in Aswan, Egypt, looking at an unfinished obelisk very early one morning in January 2008 when Mary Gwen, a senior member of the College’s Board of Trustees, glimpsed the crimson sweatshirt of a young woman passing and “literally grabbed her to ask where she goes to college.” As the student turned toward her, Mary Gwen fully saw Austin College on the sweatshirt. Connections were made, other students gathered, a photo was taken to commemorate the chance meeting.

That “chance” experience is made more interesting because of past similar experiences. In January 2002, Mary Gwen, at an elevator at the Louvre in Paris, overheard a group discussing a cancelled course to Rome. She knew an Austin College student whose Rome trip had been cancelled so she asked the group where they went to school — Austin College! And, in 2006, in Colorado, Mary Gwen boarded a ski lift, asked her seatmates where they were from, and discovered Texas connections, then Presbyterian connections, and finally, Austin College connections as beneath the scarves, hats, and goggles of ski attire, she discovered new board member Stan Woodward. In every case, last minute changes to her itinerary caused her path to cross that of students — predestination she’s sure. Whatever the cause, she’s a Kangaroo magnet — and with the many travels of students during JanTerm, she’s likely to attract even more!



During January 2008, 348 students traveled to Australia, Bolivia, brazil, Costa Rica, Egypt, Germany, Greece, Guatemala, India, Jamaica, Japan, Mexico, Peru, Scotland, Spain, Turkey, and Uruguay, studying architecture, language, environmental issues, rat, medicine, science, history, politics, and culture. Students and faculty also spent time in Austin, Texas; New York City; and Washington, D.C., studying foreign investment, independent film, leadership, and U.S. foreign policy. Many students completed career study or individual exploration, including 21 who chose international sites of Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Ethiopia, India, Kenya, and Pakistan.

Austin College Among Top 5 Colleges for Undergraduate Study Abroad Participation

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Austin College ranked No. 4 in the nation among baccalaureate institutions in undergraduate study abroad participation, according to the Open Doors 2007 report released in November by the Institute of International Education (IIE). Since 2002, Austin College has ranked in the top five in its category on four occasions, taking the number one spot in 2004 and in 2006.

“Austin College’s phenomenal study abroad rate has been one of higher education’s better kept secrets for some time, but it’s rewarding when the rest of the world is let in on our success,” said Austin College President Oscar C. Page. “This ranks us higher than such prestigious institutions as Colby, Lewis & Clark, and Colorado College — all included in the IIE’s top 20.”

The IIE data includes formal semester and year-long study abroad programs as well as short-term study (such as JanTerm).

Five Austin College students are spending this entire academic year abroad; 22 students were abroad for the fall and 20 students are studying internationally this spring. Sites for this year’s study include Argentina, Australia, Austria, Chile, China, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, England, Ecuador, France, Italy, Japan, Mali, Peru, Samoa, Scotland, and Spain.

Nearly 72 percent of the Class of 2007 had an international study experience of at least on month at Austin College.

Study Abroad in Venezuela with Global Exchange

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Want to study in Venezuela and learn some Spanish? Since you can’t find everything on the internet, we recommend traveling to Venezuela. We promise you won’t find an opportunity like this one anywhere else.

Global Exchange provides a unique opportunity to English-speaking students to get to know Venezuela in a beautiful town located at the foot of Andes. Mérida is a popular tourist destination and home to the Universidad de Los Andes.

The fall and spring semester academic programs are designed to increase students’ knowledge of contemporary Venezuelan society. The goal is to create links and build bridges between advocates of social justice in the global North and like-minded people in Latin America. Global’s motto is “building people to people ties”, and you’ll leave Venezuela with lots of new friends.

The 12-week program is built around intensive Spanish language training, essential for anyone serious about getting to know the people of the patria querida. Courses focus on Venezuelan history, culture, and politics. You can earn 15 undergraduate or graduate credits while engaging with contemporary and alternative development issues inside and outside the classroom.

Frequent exchanges with community leaders involved in social change on the ground make this a truly one-of-a-kind experience. The people at Global Exchange have worked within the communities of Mérida for many years. They know the terrain, and can’t wait to show you around!

STUDY ABROAD IN ITALY

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One of the most historically abundant countries in the world, Italy probably has more places and venues to see and cherish than you can expect to see even in a whole academic year. The country maintains a fine balance between being among the top 8 industrialized countries in the world and also being the hub of Renaissance.

Italy has played an important role in the higher education in the European society. It was a key player in the educational reforms that were started, known as the Bologna Process. This involved a Bologna Declaration in the summer of 1999 that is being now followed and applied all through Europe.

Study abroad programs are available in most of the 83 higher education universities of Italy and 58 of these are accredited to the State. Other than these universities and institutions, there are numerous private or non-government sponsored institutes that manage and run study abroad programs on various disciplines.

For international students who want to study abroad in Italy, there is a spate of universities to choose from. The country houses the oldest university in the Western World – the Università di Bologna created in 1088. The La Sapienza University is acclaimed for its academic courses in humanities and social sciences. Other universities excel in politics, law and international affairs. For study abroad programs in engineering the Politechnico di Milano and University of Torino are the best choices that a study abroad student can make. Needless to say, Florence and Venice are the unsurpassable locations to study art, architecture and history.

Some institutes are specially aligned to accommodate study abroad students and have high school summer study abroad programs for those who are interested in high school summer study abroad in the country. Florence based, Studio Art Centers International (SACI) has courses in liberal and studio art where one can gain prowess in drawing, design and architecture. Universities like the Syracuse University also offer internships to give you practical experience in the industry.

A student visa is required to study abroad in Italy even if you are present in the country for a short period of time on a high school summer abroad program. You will require the following documents while applying for a visa.
- A valid passport
- A letter of acceptance from the university that you propose to join in Italy
- Flight reservations for a round trip into and out of Italy
- Letter from your bank indicating an availability of funds, account number, credit card details and balance
Along with the application form, you must attach a letter addressed to the Italian Consulate explaining how you plan to support you stay and education in Italy. In case you have obtained a study abroad scholarship you need to provide adequate documentation to prove the same.

Once in Italy, you will need to show the proof of a health insurance to the Questura (authorities) to get your residence permit (Permesso di Soggiorno). It may take about 2 to 3 weeks for you to get sanctions for a visit to Italy on a student visa.

While you are studying abroad, whether it is for an academic course or spending a high school summer abroad, it is almost mandatory that you visit the world-renowned locations in the country. You are likely to see a contrast of the latest fashions, modern building and industry with the historical monuments that are replete with culture and legends in the course of your stay. The canals of Venice, the statues of Florence, the magisterial presence of the Coliseum and the Trevi Fountain are sites that you should definitely not miss. The Vatican City, smallest country in the world, is the seat of the Roman Catholic Church. Don’t miss the opportunity of visiting the grand St. Peter's Basilica and experience the Swiss Guards and the beauty of the architecture.

People in Italy are friendly and relaxed and eager to share the various legends of heroes, villains, victories and defeats if only you care to ask them. Be sure to bask in the glory of this rich culture while you are there.

UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT GLOBAL AND REGIONAL STUDIES PROGRAM STUDY ABROAD ADVICE FOR MAJORS AND MINORS

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The Global and Regional Studies Program (GRS) considers study abroad to be an integral aspect of any high quality undergraduate education. But it is an especially crucial element of your area studies major or minor. With very few exceptions our students study abroad, for a minimum of a semester, and in some cases, a whole year. We try to make it easy for you to fulfill your major and/or minor requirements through study abroad by accepting up to one-half of the credits toward your major or minor as transfer credits.

Study abroad provides you with the opportunity to move from learning about the world to learning in the world; refines language and intercultural communication skills; and provides a context and depth for the specific themes you have been studying on campus. With the right program and frame of mind, you can gain invaluable linguistic, cross-cultural, and field research experiences that will enhance your studies, career prospects, and outlook on life.

Planning for Study Abroad

When to go? As long as you have a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA, sophomore status, and good social standing at the university, UVM will grant you permission to study abroad. Most students go during their third year. A handful go during their sophomore year, and others their senior year, but remember that the university requires you to take 30 of your last 45 credit hours at UVM.

Keep in mind that some courses required for your major and/or minor might be offered only during certain semesters. Plan out your major and/or minor in advance, and consider how study abroad will help fulfill those requirements.

Seek Advising: In order to study abroad, you must attend an information session and meet with a Study Abroad Advisor, both at the Office of International Education (OIE). You should also meet with your academic advisor as early in your planning as possible to discuss programs, the application process, and your plan for completing the major or minor.

Prerequisites: Different programs have different prerequisites, which may include language and certain specialized coursework. Be very clear about what you need for your desired program and prioritize those courses in semesters leading up to the time you want to be abroad. Some programs also have minimum GPA requirements.

Choosing a Program

The UVM OIE (http://www.uvm.edu/~oies/?Page=sa_index.php¹) maintains a list of approved programs and exchanges. While you can petition to receive credits from a non-approved program, we strongly advise against it. The reason OIE approves programs is that they meet certain minimum educational standards. If the program that interests you is not approved by OIE, chances are good that it does not provide a quality educational experience.

GRS does not recommend any programs in particular. Our students have gone on virtually every kind of program. We suggest that in addition to asking other students in your area what programs they have gone on, you also discuss specific programs with the director of your area studies program and other faculty members who teach in the program.

Location: For obvious reasons, most GRS students choose stationary programs in the region they are studying. Unlike comparative/multi-country programs, stationary programs tend to emphasize language learning, and can usually transfer back easily into your GRS major or minor.

Program Type: Do you want to go for an academic year? One semester? Summer? Winter break? Do you want direct enrollment in a foreign university or to be in a group with other Americans? Do you want homestays or dormitory/independent residence? Do you want language immersion or English language? Do you want a program with a field study component, or primarily classroom based?

Above all else, we recommend that you seek out programs that offer sustained immersion in a culture and language different than your own. Many programs are merely “American Bubbles” overseas and offer very little or no true cross-cultural immersion. Such programs offer very little for an area studies education. Many of these programs are so-called “third-party programs” because they are offered by a U.S.-based organization or university. But beware that even exchange programs, which often have U.S. students living in dorms with other foreign students, are often not much better in terms of immersing you in the local culture because you live with other foreigners.

Credit Transfer: Find out from the registrar’s office how the credits from the program you want to apply to transfer back to UVM: http://www.uvm.edu/~rgweb/²

Financing Study Abroad

Financial Aid: If you participate in a UVM-approved study abroad program, you will be able to receive
aid while abroad. However, UVM institutional-based financial aid no longer covers the costs of some programs. For more information contact the Financial Aid office and see http://www.uvm.edu/oie/?Page=sa_cost.php³. UVM institutional aid can usually be applied to bilateral exchange programs, ISEP, and UVM faculty-led programs. In addition, UVM now offers two semester-length programs abroad—in Oaxaca, Mexico, and Belize—and because they are UVM programs ALL of your financial aid travels with you. Many non-UVM programs offer scholarships.

Your Application

References: Most programs require one or several faculty references. You should get to know several teachers well in advance of your application deadline, and give them plenty of lead time to write their letters. Do not wait until the last minute on this one!

Essay: Different programs require different kinds of essays. Share your essay with your advisor
and other reference letter writers for feedback well in advance of deadlines.

Suggested Timeline for Applying

Two semesters before you want to go:
- Visit the OIE. Attend a mandatory information session and meet with a Study Abroad Advisor.
- Meet with your academic advisor to discuss your plans.
- Begin researching programs and their deadlines at OIE, on the web, and by talking to faculty and other students who have studied abroad.
- If the program has an early deadline, begin completing the application and request reference letters.
- Contact the financial aid office to discuss your specific aid situation. Identify financial aid deadlines.

One semester before you want to go:
- If the deadline hasn’t passed, complete your application.
- Once accepted to a program, you will need to complete a Study Abroad Approval Form, which requires a number of signatures, and attend a mandatory pre-departure meeting at OIE.

While You Are Abroad

Journal: You are likely to experience some culture shock, even if you study in a country with strong cultural similarities to the U.S., like England or Australia. We strongly recommend that you keep a journal in which you can work through the processes of cultural adjustment, reflecting on the ups and downs of your experience.

Planning for Future Work: Planning for a study abroad location and experience can provide the basis for a senior thesis, future work, independent study, or term paper after you return. If you need help thinking through possible topics to pursue when you get back, or help identifying materials and information to collect while you are there, talk with your program’s academic leaders and contact your advisor back here at UVM.

Save Everything! Bring ALL your syllabi, copies of papers, and other documentation back with you to ensure smooth transfer of credit.

Bringing the Experience Back Home

Adjustment: Coming back home can be just as challenging as going. You will have changed in relation to your own culture, and wonder where you fit in back here. You will probably also miss your lifestyle and friends from abroad. There are several keys to settling back into life here:

Share your experience with others: Attend an OIE study abroad returnees’ gathering; become an OIE study abroad peer advisor; organize a round table discussion with other students to discuss your experience; or hold a slide show for friends or other area studies students.

Use your new skills: Keep your language skills up by seeking out others who speak the language; hone your cross-cultural communication skills by tutoring an international student or volunteering in town with groups you might not normally get involved with (immigrants, community outreach, etc.)

Don’t assume that you are the only one who changed: Friends and family will have experienced new things and changed while you were away too. Don’t assume you’re the only one with good stories and be a good listener.

Keep learning about the places you went: Take more coursework that focuses on places and issues you encountered abroad, and try to use course writing assignments to deepen your knowledge of these themes.