Study Abroad Domain http://www.studyabroaddomain.com Just another WordPress site Fri, 16 Dec 2011 21:19:56 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0.1 USD Wins Study Abroad Ranking http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/usd-wins-study-abroad-ranking http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/usd-wins-study-abroad-ranking#comments Fri, 16 Dec 2011 21:19:56 +0000 admin http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/?p=2250

The Institute for International Education recently ranked the University of San Diego No. 1 in the nation in its category in terms of the percentage of undergraduate students who participate in study abroad programs. The institute’s Open Doors Report, is based on data from the 2009-2010 academic year, when 825 of 1,156 – or 71.4% – of USD’s graduating students had participated in a semester at sea, summer or January intercession overseas program. USD placed ahead of other “top study abroad” campuses such as Pepperdine University, Yale University, Dartmouth College, the University of Notre Dame and American University in its category. The focus on international education will continue. “We will design and develop new partnerships and ... develop USD centers or other institutional presence in a few strategic non-U.S. locations, create more international dual degree programs and enhance opportunities in countries and regions currently not well served,” said Denise Dimon, USD’s associate provost for international affairs.

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The Institute for International Education recently ranked the University of San Diego No. 1 in the nation in its category in terms of the percentage of undergraduate students who participate in study abroad programs. The institute’s Open Doors Report, is based on data from the 2009-2010 academic year, when 825 of 1,156 – or 71.4% – of USD’s graduating students had participated in a semester at sea, summer or January intercession overseas program. USD placed ahead of other “top study abroad” campuses such as Pepperdine University, Yale University, Dartmouth College, the University of Notre Dame and American University in its category. The focus on international education will continue. “We will design and develop new partnerships and ... develop USD centers or other institutional presence in a few strategic non-U.S. locations, create more international dual degree programs and enhance opportunities in countries and regions currently not well served,” said Denise Dimon, USD’s associate provost for international affairs.

]]> http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/usd-wins-study-abroad-ranking/feed 0 The Study Abroad Student’s Christmas List http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/the-study-abroad-students-christmas-list http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/the-study-abroad-students-christmas-list#comments Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:06:08 +0000 Melissa Rubin http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/?p=2245

It's hard to know exactly what to bring when you pack for study abroad. No matter which location you are going to be living in, there are things that every student will need, or want. But how to know before you leave? Well, the editors at Study Abroad Domain found a fantastic blogger slash study abroad student who has come up with the perfect solution: a Christmas list for study abroad students. We gave it a bit of our own flair, and came up with a list fit for Santa.

  1. Camera (with tons of zoom)
      It's pretty obvious that when your child goes abroad, as a parent you are required to buy them a camera! Not just any camera, but one with optimal zoom is best. No freaking out over price either. There are plenty of cameras withe excellent zoom for under $200 - for example, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 Digital Camera with 16X zoom.
  2. Portable luggage
    1. If your students are anything like me, they will travel a ton while studying abroad. Don't worry - they'll also study... a bit. But what would living abroad be without exploring? Make sure your kids have at least one rolling luggage suitcase, as well as a nice, durable backpack.
  3. WiFi or Hotspot Electronics
    1. Having a cell phone or tablet with WiFi or Hotspot technology will help keep any student abreast of what is going on both back in the states and around the world. Have them always plugged in and have the ability to skype, tweet, or message 24/7.
  4. Travel Wallet
    1. These nifty wallet is not just for your change. A travel wallet comes with pockets made for your passport, coins, and paper money, along with the regular international student credit cards. Keeping everything in one safe location keeps students organized (but always remember to keep a copy of your passport and insurance information somewhere else as well).
  5. International cell phone/Calling cards
    1. To keep in constant contact with everyone from your mom back home to your roommate while at the pub, it's necessary to have a phone, either one from the host country, or an international cell phone.
  6. Travel adapter/converter
    1. This is pretty self-explanatory!

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It's hard to know exactly what to bring when you pack for study abroad. No matter which location you are going to be living in, there are things that every student will need, or want. But how to know before you leave? Well, the editors at Study Abroad Domain found a fantastic blogger slash study abroad student who has come up with the perfect solution: a Christmas list for study abroad students. We gave it a bit of our own flair, and came up with a list fit for Santa.

  1. Camera (with tons of zoom)
      It's pretty obvious that when your child goes abroad, as a parent you are required to buy them a camera! Not just any camera, but one with optimal zoom is best. No freaking out over price either. There are plenty of cameras withe excellent zoom for under $200 - for example, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 Digital Camera with 16X zoom.
  2. Portable luggage
    1. If your students are anything like me, they will travel a ton while studying abroad. Don't worry - they'll also study... a bit. But what would living abroad be without exploring? Make sure your kids have at least one rolling luggage suitcase, as well as a nice, durable backpack.
  3. WiFi or Hotspot Electronics
    1. Having a cell phone or tablet with WiFi or Hotspot technology will help keep any student abreast of what is going on both back in the states and around the world. Have them always plugged in and have the ability to skype, tweet, or message 24/7.
  4. Travel Wallet
    1. These nifty wallet is not just for your change. A travel wallet comes with pockets made for your passport, coins, and paper money, along with the regular international student credit cards. Keeping everything in one safe location keeps students organized (but always remember to keep a copy of your passport and insurance information somewhere else as well).
  5. International cell phone/Calling cards
    1. To keep in constant contact with everyone from your mom back home to your roommate while at the pub, it's necessary to have a phone, either one from the host country, or an international cell phone.
  6. Travel adapter/converter
    1. This is pretty self-explanatory!

]]> http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/the-study-abroad-students-christmas-list/feed 0 German Christmas Markets Offer Holiday Option for Study Abroad Students http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/articles/german-christmas-markets-offer-holiday-option-for-study-abroad-students http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/articles/german-christmas-markets-offer-holiday-option-for-study-abroad-students#comments Thu, 24 Nov 2011 11:03:36 +0000 admin http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/?p=1243

Being thousands of miles from home during the holiday season would make anyone a little homesick. However, there are tons of ways to take in some of the holiday cheer from festivals around Europe while studying abroad. Germany is very well known for its Christmas markets which spring up in almost every town to celebrate the advent season. While walking through these markets you’ll be able to find homemade ornaments, toys, nutcrackers, and cookie tins among many other things while taking in the smell of freshly made gingerbread and roasting nuts. Every city adds a unique twist to its Christmas market whether it is through famous baked goods or wooden figurines.

Berlin-Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche

Berlin, the nation’s capital is home to several Christmas markets. The most well known market is located near Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche, which It hosts over 4 million visitors annually making it the favorite of both tourists and locals. Being one of the largest cities in Europe Berlin is known for its urban feel, which is deeply incorporated into the Christmas markets held in the city. While visiting one would find a great amount of artistic talent from painters to musicians filling the market with a more modern vibe than other more traditional markets throughout the country. The Berlin markets are also known for their handmade jewelry and decorations. The market is located amongst some of the most famous department stores in Germany making holiday shopping even more convenient. The festively elaborate window displays add to the holiday spirit.

Dresden- Striezelmarkt

The Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany dating back to before 1434. Its name comes from striezel, a sweet bread that is made around Christmas time that traditionally incorporates fruits and nuts. The festival began when the striezel, also known as stollen was made in city of Dresden to give to the current prince as a Christmas gift. Over time the prince began distributing the stolen to the poor during the holidays. The day that the prince gave his gift to the poor became known as Striezelmontag. During the 17th century the market began being used as a place to buy meat for holiday dinners. The market then became a place for both domestic and foreign merchants alike to trade their goods for the holidays. This brought porcelain, woodcrafts, nutcrackers, and other figurines to the market. In 1994 a new tradition began in the city called the Dresden Stollen Festival where a 2-3 ton stollen is paraded through the city ending in the Striezelmarkt where it is cut with a four foot long knife!

Lübeck

The Christmas market in Lübeck dates back to the mid 17th century and is now most famous for its marzipan work. The streets of this market are covered with marzipan artists who are able to make up almost anything you can imagine from animals to fruits. Marzipan made in the city must adhere to strict quality standards and making Lübeck known world-wide for its marzipan. Other notable products are made by wood lathe and leather artisans. Marionettes and other figurines are sold in the nearby hospital’s basement. There are Christmas markets throughout Germany and each one is reflective of its city’s history and culture. As a student studying abroad these markets provide the perfect opportunity to experience a familiar holiday in a new setting with different customs and traditions.

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Being thousands of miles from home during the holiday season would make anyone a little homesick. However, there are tons of ways to take in some of the holiday cheer from festivals around Europe while studying abroad. Germany is very well known for its Christmas markets which spring up in almost every town to celebrate the advent season. While walking through these markets you’ll be able to find homemade ornaments, toys, nutcrackers, and cookie tins among many other things while taking in the smell of freshly made gingerbread and roasting nuts. Every city adds a unique twist to its Christmas market whether it is through famous baked goods or wooden figurines.

Berlin-Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche

Berlin, the nation’s capital is home to several Christmas markets. The most well known market is located near Kaiser Wilhelm Gedächtniskirche, which It hosts over 4 million visitors annually making it the favorite of both tourists and locals. Being one of the largest cities in Europe Berlin is known for its urban feel, which is deeply incorporated into the Christmas markets held in the city. While visiting one would find a great amount of artistic talent from painters to musicians filling the market with a more modern vibe than other more traditional markets throughout the country. The Berlin markets are also known for their handmade jewelry and decorations. The market is located amongst some of the most famous department stores in Germany making holiday shopping even more convenient. The festively elaborate window displays add to the holiday spirit.

Dresden- Striezelmarkt

The Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany dating back to before 1434. Its name comes from striezel, a sweet bread that is made around Christmas time that traditionally incorporates fruits and nuts. The festival began when the striezel, also known as stollen was made in city of Dresden to give to the current prince as a Christmas gift. Over time the prince began distributing the stolen to the poor during the holidays. The day that the prince gave his gift to the poor became known as Striezelmontag. During the 17th century the market began being used as a place to buy meat for holiday dinners. The market then became a place for both domestic and foreign merchants alike to trade their goods for the holidays. This brought porcelain, woodcrafts, nutcrackers, and other figurines to the market. In 1994 a new tradition began in the city called the Dresden Stollen Festival where a 2-3 ton stollen is paraded through the city ending in the Striezelmarkt where it is cut with a four foot long knife!

Lübeck

The Christmas market in Lübeck dates back to the mid 17th century and is now most famous for its marzipan work. The streets of this market are covered with marzipan artists who are able to make up almost anything you can imagine from animals to fruits. Marzipan made in the city must adhere to strict quality standards and making Lübeck known world-wide for its marzipan. Other notable products are made by wood lathe and leather artisans. Marionettes and other figurines are sold in the nearby hospital’s basement. There are Christmas markets throughout Germany and each one is reflective of its city’s history and culture. As a student studying abroad these markets provide the perfect opportunity to experience a familiar holiday in a new setting with different customs and traditions.

]]> http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/articles/german-christmas-markets-offer-holiday-option-for-study-abroad-students/feed 0 Study abroad Programs Grow at Tech http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/study-abroad-programs-grow-at-tech http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/study-abroad-programs-grow-at-tech#comments Mon, 21 Nov 2011 21:26:03 +0000 Melissa Rubin http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/?p=1871

by Torie Deible, news staff writer at the CollegiateTimes Virginia Tech officials are seeing a marked increase in student participation in study abroad programs. When Jeremy Scott Billetdeaux, assistant program director of Education Abroad at Virginia Tech, started five-and-a-half years ago, there were only about 900 students studying abroad. The program now boasts nearly 1,200 students. Junior David Hopland studied abroad last semester at the University of the Sunshine Coast in Australia. “Being on your own in another culture allows you to learn how to deal with tough situations and exposure to different scenarios in a different culture,” Hopland said. “You learn a lot about yourself which was a big thing for me.” Senior Sarah Schneider, who has studied abroad in Chile and Spain, said the experience helped her problem solving and language skills. “Not to mention resume building and career enhancement to set me apart,” Schneider said. Brendan Brink-Halloran, a Tech instructor who has a Ph.D. in planning, governance and globalization, is a huge supporter of studying abroad. “We can see a presentation for a professor on what’s going on in Egypt in the Middle East right now but it’s very different from actually being there, talking to people, seeing things with your own eyes, eating the food and immersing yourself in a different culture to teach you things that you could never learn in a classroom,” Brink-Halloran said. Terry Papillon, director of Tech’s Honors Program, leads study abroad programs in Greece every other year. Papillon said the value of the study program varies by student. “If you go off on a study abroad program and you spend the whole time drinking and not paying attention, it’s not going to be worth it ultimately,” he said. Students obtain valuable knowledge and skills from studying abroad that they wouldn’t necessarily get in a classroom. “It makes students more aware that questions are broader than they thought they were, which helps in most any degree,” Papillon said. “It reminds students that the world is bigger and that questions are asked in different ways.” He said the four main reasons students may be hesitant to study abroad are money, scheduling, fear and ignorance. “Too many students burn their bridge before they cross it,” Papillon said. “Students don’t know that money doesn’t have to be a problem and they don’t know what’s out there.” Billetdeaux said students in study abroad programs can enhance their employment opportunities after college. “Students make themselves much more marketable if they can demonstrate to employers that they’ve already been working in a different cultural context and they know how to interact with people with different backgrounds,” Billetdeaux said. “Almost all the time I hear from people who have studied abroad and they tell me that they have talked about it in their interviews and their potential employers were really impressed by that.” Billetdeaux said he has heard from several employers and graduate schools that the study abroad experience has made student applicants more desirable. “It gives you an edge,” Billetdeaux said.

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by Torie Deible, news staff writer at the CollegiateTimes Virginia Tech officials are seeing a marked increase in student participation in study abroad programs. When Jeremy Scott Billetdeaux, assistant program director of Education Abroad at Virginia Tech, started five-and-a-half years ago, there were only about 900 students studying abroad. The program now boasts nearly 1,200 students. Junior David Hopland studied abroad last semester at the University of the Sunshine Coast in Australia. “Being on your own in another culture allows you to learn how to deal with tough situations and exposure to different scenarios in a different culture,” Hopland said. “You learn a lot about yourself which was a big thing for me.” Senior Sarah Schneider, who has studied abroad in Chile and Spain, said the experience helped her problem solving and language skills. “Not to mention resume building and career enhancement to set me apart,” Schneider said. Brendan Brink-Halloran, a Tech instructor who has a Ph.D. in planning, governance and globalization, is a huge supporter of studying abroad. “We can see a presentation for a professor on what’s going on in Egypt in the Middle East right now but it’s very different from actually being there, talking to people, seeing things with your own eyes, eating the food and immersing yourself in a different culture to teach you things that you could never learn in a classroom,” Brink-Halloran said. Terry Papillon, director of Tech’s Honors Program, leads study abroad programs in Greece every other year. Papillon said the value of the study program varies by student. “If you go off on a study abroad program and you spend the whole time drinking and not paying attention, it’s not going to be worth it ultimately,” he said. Students obtain valuable knowledge and skills from studying abroad that they wouldn’t necessarily get in a classroom. “It makes students more aware that questions are broader than they thought they were, which helps in most any degree,” Papillon said. “It reminds students that the world is bigger and that questions are asked in different ways.” He said the four main reasons students may be hesitant to study abroad are money, scheduling, fear and ignorance. “Too many students burn their bridge before they cross it,” Papillon said. “Students don’t know that money doesn’t have to be a problem and they don’t know what’s out there.” Billetdeaux said students in study abroad programs can enhance their employment opportunities after college. “Students make themselves much more marketable if they can demonstrate to employers that they’ve already been working in a different cultural context and they know how to interact with people with different backgrounds,” Billetdeaux said. “Almost all the time I hear from people who have studied abroad and they tell me that they have talked about it in their interviews and their potential employers were really impressed by that.” Billetdeaux said he has heard from several employers and graduate schools that the study abroad experience has made student applicants more desirable. “It gives you an edge,” Billetdeaux said.

]]> http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/study-abroad-programs-grow-at-tech/feed 0 Top Ten Schools for Study Abroad http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/top-ten-schools-for-study-abroad http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/top-ten-schools-for-study-abroad#comments Thu, 17 Nov 2011 21:48:00 +0000 admin http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/?p=2019

Ever wonder what schools offer the best for studying abroad programs? Now you can find out. Here we have a list of the top 10 schools that have the most students studying abroad. If any of these programs sound interesting to you try contacting the schools and inquire about joining the program and get involved today! Many study abroad programs offer participation to students not affiliated with their school, although being a student somewhere is usually necessary. Earth is a big world, so why not travel and explore it while continuing your education. 1. California Maritime Academy

Contact: 200 Maritime Academy Drive

Vallejo, CA 94590-8181

(707) 654-1000

2. Goucher College

Contact: 1021 Dulaney Valley Rd

Baltimore, MD 21204

(410) 337-6000

3. Lee University

Contact: 1120 N Ocoee St

Cleveland, TN 37311

(423) 614-8000

4. Thomas More College of Liberal Arts

Contact: 6 Manchester Street

Merrimack, NH 03054-4855

(603) 880-8308

Queens University of Charlotte

Contact: 1900 Selwyn Ave

Charlotte, NC 28274

(704) 337-2200

Yeshiva University

Contact: 2525 Amsterdam Avenue

New York, NY 10033-3322

(212) 960-5214

7. Centre College

Contact: 600 West Walnut Street

Danville, KY 40422-1394

(859) 238-5350

8. Goshen College

Contact:  1700 South Main Street,

Goshen, IN 46526

(574) 535-7000

9. Kalamazoo College

Contact: 1200 Academy St

Kalamazoo, MI 49006

(269) 337-7000

10. Loyola University Maryland

Contact: 4501 North Charles Street

Baltimore, MD 21210-2601

(410) 617-2000

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Ever wonder what schools offer the best for studying abroad programs? Now you can find out. Here we have a list of the top 10 schools that have the most students studying abroad. If any of these programs sound interesting to you try contacting the schools and inquire about joining the program and get involved today! Many study abroad programs offer participation to students not affiliated with their school, although being a student somewhere is usually necessary. Earth is a big world, so why not travel and explore it while continuing your education. 1. California Maritime Academy

Contact: 200 Maritime Academy Drive

Vallejo, CA 94590-8181

(707) 654-1000

2. Goucher College

Contact: 1021 Dulaney Valley Rd

Baltimore, MD 21204

(410) 337-6000

3. Lee University

Contact: 1120 N Ocoee St

Cleveland, TN 37311

(423) 614-8000

4. Thomas More College of Liberal Arts

Contact: 6 Manchester Street

Merrimack, NH 03054-4855

(603) 880-8308

Queens University of Charlotte

Contact: 1900 Selwyn Ave

Charlotte, NC 28274

(704) 337-2200

Yeshiva University

Contact: 2525 Amsterdam Avenue

New York, NY 10033-3322

(212) 960-5214

7. Centre College

Contact: 600 West Walnut Street

Danville, KY 40422-1394

(859) 238-5350

8. Goshen College

Contact:  1700 South Main Street,

Goshen, IN 46526

(574) 535-7000

9. Kalamazoo College

Contact: 1200 Academy St

Kalamazoo, MI 49006

(269) 337-7000

10. Loyola University Maryland

Contact: 4501 North Charles Street

Baltimore, MD 21210-2601

(410) 617-2000

]]> http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/top-ten-schools-for-study-abroad/feed 0 Not your Parent’s Reasons for Studying Abroad http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/articles/not-your-parent%e2%80%99s-reasons-for-studying-abroad http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/articles/not-your-parent%e2%80%99s-reasons-for-studying-abroad#comments Mon, 14 Nov 2011 17:46:21 +0000 Melissa Rubin http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/?p=2236

Most of the study abroad resources available on StudyAbroadDomain.com are through the eyes of a travel expert, financial or cultural specialist, and previous study abroad students. The reasons we’ve given you to study abroad range from experiencing a new culture, learning a language, and making new friends. Those are all legitimate reasons to study abroad, but here are the reasons that aren’t in the cookie cutter pamphlets you get at school.

Not your Parent’s Reasons for Studying Abroad

As a former study abroad participant who traveled a lot during my stay in London, England I must say that there is more to studying abroad than learning a new culture. What are the main reasons to study abroad that the study abroad office won’t tell you?
  1. The night life
  2. The food
  3. The worldly prospective
I know the third reason sounds a little pompous, but let me explain. Yes, I learned about another culture while studying abroad, and it was fantastic. I took classes on British Politics as well as Anthropology and learned a ton. I even took a class that gave me the European perspective on the Holocaust. However, what I really learned was how to take this new culture and my old culture and compare them. I learned how to look at my own United States culture from a different perspective. There are things in the states that most people take for granted that other countries don’t have. I don’t mean things like the power to vote, or running water. I mean, for instance, the fact that we can go into a university setting with no idea what we want to be when we grow up. We can wait as long as our junior year before we declare a major. In other countries, like England, students need to have their focus before they even get to college; usually around age 16. The other reasons to study abroad I mentioned are more on a student’s mentality. The nightlife while studying abroad is incredible. I visited Madrid, Spain and stayed at a club until 5 a.m – which was the norm! In London I was surrounded by club and bar promoters offering discounts unheard of in the states to visit their bar. It’s not just Europe. Other countries in places like South America also have nightlife’s that don’t even start until midnight. Now for my favorite part of studying abroad – new kinds of food. Although America is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, there’s nothing like getting it from the source. You better not be an anti-carb person while traveling in Ireland; every meal comes with some sort of potato drenched in some delicious sauce.  If you’re staying with a host family you can learn how to create these delicious meals while also learning the culture of the food.

]]>

Most of the study abroad resources available on StudyAbroadDomain.com are through the eyes of a travel expert, financial or cultural specialist, and previous study abroad students. The reasons we’ve given you to study abroad range from experiencing a new culture, learning a language, and making new friends. Those are all legitimate reasons to study abroad, but here are the reasons that aren’t in the cookie cutter pamphlets you get at school.

Not your Parent’s Reasons for Studying Abroad

As a former study abroad participant who traveled a lot during my stay in London, England I must say that there is more to studying abroad than learning a new culture. What are the main reasons to study abroad that the study abroad office won’t tell you?
  1. The night life
  2. The food
  3. The worldly prospective
I know the third reason sounds a little pompous, but let me explain. Yes, I learned about another culture while studying abroad, and it was fantastic. I took classes on British Politics as well as Anthropology and learned a ton. I even took a class that gave me the European perspective on the Holocaust. However, what I really learned was how to take this new culture and my old culture and compare them. I learned how to look at my own United States culture from a different perspective. There are things in the states that most people take for granted that other countries don’t have. I don’t mean things like the power to vote, or running water. I mean, for instance, the fact that we can go into a university setting with no idea what we want to be when we grow up. We can wait as long as our junior year before we declare a major. In other countries, like England, students need to have their focus before they even get to college; usually around age 16. The other reasons to study abroad I mentioned are more on a student’s mentality. The nightlife while studying abroad is incredible. I visited Madrid, Spain and stayed at a club until 5 a.m – which was the norm! In London I was surrounded by club and bar promoters offering discounts unheard of in the states to visit their bar. It’s not just Europe. Other countries in places like South America also have nightlife’s that don’t even start until midnight. Now for my favorite part of studying abroad – new kinds of food. Although America is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, there’s nothing like getting it from the source. You better not be an anti-carb person while traveling in Ireland; every meal comes with some sort of potato drenched in some delicious sauce.  If you’re staying with a host family you can learn how to create these delicious meals while also learning the culture of the food.

]]> http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/articles/not-your-parent%e2%80%99s-reasons-for-studying-abroad/feed 0 Disappearing Study Abroad Travel Locations http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/disappearing-study-abroad-travel-locations http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/disappearing-study-abroad-travel-locations#comments Thu, 10 Nov 2011 16:25:09 +0000 admin http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/?p=2075

In his book, 100 Places To Go Before They Disappear, Desmond Tutu goes through 100 places around the globe in danger of disappearing. From ocean towns to whole countries, the book outlines what may happen due to global warming. If you’ve already made study abroad plans, taking time out to visit these locations may actually be a once in a lifetime opportunity. Traveling the world, or even your backyard, seeing as some of these locations are in the United States, is one of the most exciting parts of studying abroad. If you’re interested to see what other locations Tutu mentions, the whole book is available May 1st.

  1. Mississippi River Delta
  2. Olympia, Greece
  3. The Wadden Sea (southeastern part of the North Sea, touches Germany and the Netherlands)
  4. The Battery, New York
  5. Venice, Italy
  6. Siberia, Russia
  7. 7. Tuvalu – the whole nation could disappear!
  8. Monteverde Could Forest, Costa Rica
  9. The Thames, London
  10. Big Sur, California

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In his book, 100 Places To Go Before They Disappear, Desmond Tutu goes through 100 places around the globe in danger of disappearing. From ocean towns to whole countries, the book outlines what may happen due to global warming. If you’ve already made study abroad plans, taking time out to visit these locations may actually be a once in a lifetime opportunity. Traveling the world, or even your backyard, seeing as some of these locations are in the United States, is one of the most exciting parts of studying abroad. If you’re interested to see what other locations Tutu mentions, the whole book is available May 1st.

  1. Mississippi River Delta
  2. Olympia, Greece
  3. The Wadden Sea (southeastern part of the North Sea, touches Germany and the Netherlands)
  4. The Battery, New York
  5. Venice, Italy
  6. Siberia, Russia
  7. 7. Tuvalu – the whole nation could disappear!
  8. Monteverde Could Forest, Costa Rica
  9. The Thames, London
  10. Big Sur, California

]]> http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/disappearing-study-abroad-travel-locations/feed 0 How to Finance Study Abroad http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/how-to-finance-study-abroad http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/how-to-finance-study-abroad#comments Tue, 08 Nov 2011 17:03:21 +0000 Melissa Rubin http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/?p=2232

Participating in a study abroad semester allows students the opportunities to become a worldlier individual. This is not evident only in the classroom, but in the working world as well. Many companies seek experienced employees for the ever-shrinking business world. Finding potential candidates who have lived abroad tends to give those individuals a leg up in finding a job. For this reason, among others, many parents and students justify the rising costs of study abroad. Whether it be a summer study abroad, semester at sea, or fall/spring semester, superfluous and necessary costs are much higher than they would be if staying at your host university. When applying for college many students take out loans or apply for scholarships. The same can be done with studying abroad. Financing your experience abroad is not impossible – if you know where to look. The following are just a few options available for financing your study abroad experience:

  1. Study Abroad Loans – Study abroad loans are extremely popular for students studying abroad. Although they have to be paid back, there tends to be no deadline to meet, meaning you can apply for loans up to only two months before you leave.
  2. Study Abroad Scholarships – If you are lucky enough to meet the qualifications for a study abroad scholarship, you should most definitely apply. Most study abroad scholarship deadlines range between October-March of the year before the funds will be used, so take time to research which scholarships work best for you.
  3. Study Abroad Grants – Like study abroad scholarships, study abroad grants do not need to be paid back. However, just like scholarships, the window of application is usually 6 months to a year before the funds will be needed so make sure you spend time to research!

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Participating in a study abroad semester allows students the opportunities to become a worldlier individual. This is not evident only in the classroom, but in the working world as well. Many companies seek experienced employees for the ever-shrinking business world. Finding potential candidates who have lived abroad tends to give those individuals a leg up in finding a job. For this reason, among others, many parents and students justify the rising costs of study abroad. Whether it be a summer study abroad, semester at sea, or fall/spring semester, superfluous and necessary costs are much higher than they would be if staying at your host university. When applying for college many students take out loans or apply for scholarships. The same can be done with studying abroad. Financing your experience abroad is not impossible – if you know where to look. The following are just a few options available for financing your study abroad experience:

  1. Study Abroad Loans – Study abroad loans are extremely popular for students studying abroad. Although they have to be paid back, there tends to be no deadline to meet, meaning you can apply for loans up to only two months before you leave.
  2. Study Abroad Scholarships – If you are lucky enough to meet the qualifications for a study abroad scholarship, you should most definitely apply. Most study abroad scholarship deadlines range between October-March of the year before the funds will be used, so take time to research which scholarships work best for you.
  3. Study Abroad Grants – Like study abroad scholarships, study abroad grants do not need to be paid back. However, just like scholarships, the window of application is usually 6 months to a year before the funds will be needed so make sure you spend time to research!

]]> http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/how-to-finance-study-abroad/feed 0 Safety Abroad: Dealing With Culture Shock http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/articles/safety-abroad-dealing-with-culture-shock http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/articles/safety-abroad-dealing-with-culture-shock#comments Thu, 03 Nov 2011 15:54:27 +0000 Melissa Rubin http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/?p=2035

The reason you are going to study abroad is to experience a culture different than yours. The way people talk, the food they eat, how they drive…it might be easier to start naming the things that will be similar than those that won’t. Your study abroad health will be affected unless you know how to deal with this psychological disorientation known as culture shock. No matter where you study abroad - whether you’re speaking a foreign language, being introduced into a completely new culture, or are participating in an overseas work opportunity completely different from your past experiences - each student will experience culture shock differently and at different times. When abroad, you go through four phases:

  1. honeymoon
  2. negotiation
  3. adjustment
  4. mastery
Most study abroad students experience culture shock in the negotiation or adjustment phase. Symptoms of culture shock include:
  • excessive concern
  • irritability
  • withdrawal
  • homesickness
  • stereotyping
How can you deal with culture shock and keep your study abroad health in tiptop shape? Here are a few pointers:
  • Research your destination
    • Get to know where you’ll be going. Only going through tourist books might not give you a complete view of the culture you will be immersing yourself into. Study abroad health and safety depends on your ability to prepare for things being different. Seek out others who have traveled to the location you will visiting and ask as many questions as you can.
  • Bring a friend
    • Having someone who can relate to what you are going through will make it easier to deal with the culture shock. Plus, having a friend will increase your safety abroad by always having someone to look out for you. If you will be going alone and start to feel culture shock, befriend another foreigner in the county and ask how they adjusted to the new living situation.
  • Be sure to write
    • Keep in touch with people back home if you start feeling isolated. Using social media, Skype and other technologies make it easier than ever to keep in contact to your loved ones back home. Even if you couldn’t go with someone who has previously traveled to the country you are visiting, you might be able to keep in touch over the internet while you are away.
  • Prepare to come home
    • After all of the time you spend getting adjusted to the country you are visiting, you may experience reverse culture shock – returning to your own country and feel the same emotions you did when you arrived to your destination. You can adjust by:
    • Reconnecting with friends from home
    • Sharing experiences with relatives
    • Getting together with your fellow travelers
Once you make it through any feelings of culture shock you experience, you will start to feel at home in your study abroad destination. Keep reminding yourself how much you are learning, keep your study abroad health in check and enjoy your time abroad! Everyone will experience a bit of culture shock so you are not alone. Push through it and thank yourself later.

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The reason you are going to study abroad is to experience a culture different than yours. The way people talk, the food they eat, how they drive…it might be easier to start naming the things that will be similar than those that won’t. Your study abroad health will be affected unless you know how to deal with this psychological disorientation known as culture shock. No matter where you study abroad - whether you’re speaking a foreign language, being introduced into a completely new culture, or are participating in an overseas work opportunity completely different from your past experiences - each student will experience culture shock differently and at different times. When abroad, you go through four phases:

  1. honeymoon
  2. negotiation
  3. adjustment
  4. mastery
Most study abroad students experience culture shock in the negotiation or adjustment phase. Symptoms of culture shock include:
  • excessive concern
  • irritability
  • withdrawal
  • homesickness
  • stereotyping
How can you deal with culture shock and keep your study abroad health in tiptop shape? Here are a few pointers:
  • Research your destination
    • Get to know where you’ll be going. Only going through tourist books might not give you a complete view of the culture you will be immersing yourself into. Study abroad health and safety depends on your ability to prepare for things being different. Seek out others who have traveled to the location you will visiting and ask as many questions as you can.
  • Bring a friend
    • Having someone who can relate to what you are going through will make it easier to deal with the culture shock. Plus, having a friend will increase your safety abroad by always having someone to look out for you. If you will be going alone and start to feel culture shock, befriend another foreigner in the county and ask how they adjusted to the new living situation.
  • Be sure to write
    • Keep in touch with people back home if you start feeling isolated. Using social media, Skype and other technologies make it easier than ever to keep in contact to your loved ones back home. Even if you couldn’t go with someone who has previously traveled to the country you are visiting, you might be able to keep in touch over the internet while you are away.
  • Prepare to come home
    • After all of the time you spend getting adjusted to the country you are visiting, you may experience reverse culture shock – returning to your own country and feel the same emotions you did when you arrived to your destination. You can adjust by:
    • Reconnecting with friends from home
    • Sharing experiences with relatives
    • Getting together with your fellow travelers
Once you make it through any feelings of culture shock you experience, you will start to feel at home in your study abroad destination. Keep reminding yourself how much you are learning, keep your study abroad health in check and enjoy your time abroad! Everyone will experience a bit of culture shock so you are not alone. Push through it and thank yourself later.

]]> http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/articles/safety-abroad-dealing-with-culture-shock/feed 0 Free Travel Attractions: Rome http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/free-travel-attractions-rome http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/blogs/free-travel-attractions-rome#comments Tue, 01 Nov 2011 15:05:01 +0000 Melissa Rubin http://www.studyabroaddomain.com/?p=2227

When studying abroad you are bound to travel to surrounding countries and cities. However, you will also most likely be on a budget. Therefore, knowing where the cheap, and even better, where the free places are, is needed to maintain your student budget. Rome is the premiere tourist attraction in Italy. The history, culture, art, and food available in this infamous city cannot be beat anywhere else in the world (arguably, of course). However, how do you see and do it all while also staying on a student’s budget? Easy… find the free stuff! Read on to find amazing attractions all for the cost of the fresh air!

  • The Vatican (free on the last Sunday of every month)
  • Pantheon
  • Piazza san Pietro
  • The Spanish Steps
  • Appia Antica
  • Famous Fountains:
    • Piazza Navona
    • Trevi Fountain
    • Campo de’Fiori
    • Piazza del Popolo
    • Piazza San Pietro
    • Piazza Barberini
    • Fountain of the Naids
    • … and more!

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When studying abroad you are bound to travel to surrounding countries and cities. However, you will also most likely be on a budget. Therefore, knowing where the cheap, and even better, where the free places are, is needed to maintain your student budget. Rome is the premiere tourist attraction in Italy. The history, culture, art, and food available in this infamous city cannot be beat anywhere else in the world (arguably, of course). However, how do you see and do it all while also staying on a student’s budget? Easy… find the free stuff! Read on to find amazing attractions all for the cost of the fresh air!

  • The Vatican (free on the last Sunday of every month)
  • Pantheon
  • Piazza san Pietro
  • The Spanish Steps
  • Appia Antica
  • Famous Fountains:
    • Piazza Navona
    • Trevi Fountain
    • Campo de’Fiori
    • Piazza del Popolo
    • Piazza San Pietro
    • Piazza Barberini
    • Fountain of the Naids
    • … and more!

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