The SPU Study Abroad To-Do List

Studying abroad is practically a rite of passage as a college student, and I think all of us have fantasized about being on the Santorini coast posing next to a pink moped with our own version of man candy Costas from Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants. However, the reality of studying abroad is that it takes serious dedication before you get to pack your bags and say bon voyage.

At SPU, there are a variety of abroad options through our university that allow you to study with a group of students and professors, all from SPU. These trips involve classes with art, biology, theology, film, music, French, and family consumer sciences. However, as a fashion merchandising major I wanted to study something along those lines and was left to fend for myself when it came to applying for a different program. There are a million options for studying abroad that allow you to study many more subjects than these, and ones that can count towards your major credits. Yet I found it difficult to get the information I needed to apply outside of SPU’s programs, so here’s my advice on how to choose a program and some helpful steps to get you to the airport on your way to the time of your life.

1. When deciding on a place to study look at the courses offered first. It’s easy to decide on where you want to go, but it’s important to be passionate about what you’re studying too. You don’t want to be miserable in the classroom when your classroom is located in a beautiful place!

2. Look up the programs steps for their application process and make an organized to-do list. This way, when you need to have things approved by SPU staff you aren’t running to the fax machine to make your deadline.

3. Another thing to pay attention too is what credits you can knock out in your time abroad. Check in with your advisor and academic counselor with a printed description of the class(es) that you plan to take abroad.

4. Keep all your papers organized as well. You will have a leave of absence form, student financial services form, a signed paper from your advisor and many more papers you will want to have on-hand at all times throughout the process. Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I hope you feel inspired to start your journey with this advice!