The international and off-campus study programs through Stevenson University (SU) provide an educational experience that engages students in personal, social and intellectual growth. Students gain an understanding of diversity that can enhance their ability to live successfully in a dynamic global community.
Studying abroad is a complicated process; just the thought of it raises a lot of questions. Many students are unfamiliar with the process. Fortunately for SU students, the Office of International and Off-Campus Study is readily available to help make the process much less overwhelming.
Located in Knott Hall 201, staff of the Office of International and Off-Campus Study Office are available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to provide any information students might need to begin the process of study away from Stevenson.
In addition to office hours, there are information sessions held every Tuesday and Friday at 2 p.m. in Knott Hall 204, no RSVP required. Students can also find plenty of important information via the SU website or the SU Now Portal as well.
Of course, funding can be a primary concern for students who are planning an off-campus study experience. Dr. Rebecca Pisano, associate dean of international and off-campus study, says that interested students can explore the list of scholarships available on the SU webpage, but should be sure to plan ahead, she said, because deadlines can be very early.
Students studying off campus during a fall or spring semester pay SU tuition and fees, ans should consider selecting a program that allows for their current SU aid to be applied as well. Pisano also notes that there are plenty of creative ideas and options for fundraising that students are encouraged to investigate.
Another concern many students have when planning their trips is the potential language barrier. Although it might be helpful, a student does not necessarily need to know how to speak the language of the host country. In fact, many of the SU program affiliates and all SU travel courses offer courses abroad taught in English.
The first step in studying abroad is to attend an information session. At this meeting, students will receive all the information they need to know about the process, logistics and timeline of studying away, as well as how to start researching and applying to a program, according to Pisano.
In addition, Pisano says that students are encouraged to start looking into study abroad options early in their SU career. Even if first-year students do not plan to study abroad until their junior or senior year, it is beneficial to get all the information necessary as early as possible in order to have the most program and course options available.
