STUDY ABROAD Of f ice of Gl ob a l Educ at ion
www.kent.edu/studyabroad
SIA
AT L A N T I C OCEAN
VIRGIN ISLANDS
COSTA RICA
PACIFIC OCEAN
Where in the
world
ARCTIC OCEAN
JOR
HONG KONG
INDIAN OCEAN
ANDA
TAIWAN
SINGAPORE
MAURITIUS
Kent State students have already painted much of the world blue and gold. You can follow in their footsteps or chart new territory.
NEW ZEALAND
would you like to go?
Why should I study abroad? Because you’ll be glad you did! Here are some benefits students, faculty, and employers have attributed to study abroad: •
A stronger resume, and improved job and internship prospects
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Hands-on field experience and a broader professional network
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A competitive edge in applying to graduate school
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A broader and more sophisticated view of the world
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Increased self-awareness, confidence, adaptability, and independence
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A better understanding of cultural values and personal biases
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Improved intercultural communication and language skills
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Long-lasting friendships forged through shared experiences
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The adventure of a lifetime in an amazing destination
“I didn’t peak in Europe. I just began to climb. My Italian semester will always be with me – in the way I approach challenges with a newfound confidence, in my enthusiasm for life, in my sturdy independence… Italy is what allowed me to be my own rock.” — Lydia, Kent State Florence Semester – Italy
How do I decide where to go? No rules! Some majors already have a great study abroad tailored to fit, so that might decide the destination for you. Or maybe there’s a place in the world you’ve always dreamed of visiting, and specific coursework is secondary because you’ll take electives. It’s up to you.
When should I study abroad? It depends. If you choose a study abroad attached to your major, it may have prerequisites, or it may be intended for a certain time, such as junior year. In other cases, you can just pick the time that suits you best. Freshmen through seniors have studied abroad. Again, no rules!
How long would I be abroad? Anywhere from a week to a year! We have many semester-long options, but also shorter programs of a few weeks or a month. You can choose the length that fits you best.
Is it expensive? Some options are more affordable than others, but depending on the study abroad and what you normally pay here, it may add less than 5 or 10 percent to the total cost of your degree. In many cases, you can use your existing financial aid, and more might be available, plus you can apply for scholarships. And if you ask any student who has studied abroad, you’ll hear it was worth every penny. Study abroad is an expense that makes you richer.
Will studying abroad delay my graduation? Not if you plan ahead. Talk with your academic advisor and with an education abroad advisor in the Office of Global Education. Work together to find a program that fits into your academic plan, allowing you to complete requirements and stay on track for graduation.
Is there a minimum required GPA? Do I have to speak another language? That depends on the program and typically ranges from 2.5 to 3.0. Not unless you want to. Many English-language programs are available, but you can also study in a foreign language if you choose.
“I opened up an entirely new sector of my imagination in India. It gave me a new outlook on the way I live, and I think made me a better man. Now I have the ideas and faith to blaze the frontier that is my future.” —Jacob, International Storytelling, a faculty-led course – India
What are my study abroad options? There are many types, lengths, destinations, and courses, but here’s a breakdown of the major categories: K e n t stat e F l or e n c e , I ta ly Our longest-established international program, Kent State Florence offers a unique Italian experience with strong on-site support and a variety of study tours and field trips throughout Italy. Course offerings cover many academic areas. K e n t stat e G e n e va , s w it z e r l a n d Through our partner, Webster University, Kent State in Geneva, Switzerland, is a distinct program that offers a wide range of courses, as well as the opportunity to intern with top international NGOs and non-profit organizations.
I n t e r n atio n a l e x c h a n g e s Kent State has many partner universities around the world where you can study for a full semester or longer. There are great financial incentives to specific programs, and a variety of destinations including South Korea, Japan, and Brazil. I s e p The International Student Exchange Program (ISEP) is a network of more than 300 institutions in 50 countries that offers you more options for finding the best academic, geographic, and cultural match for your field of study and areas of interest.
K e n t S tat e Fa c u lty-L e d c ours e s Short-term, affordable, and guided by Kent State faculty, these programs take place throughout the year in many formats and are great for students who want to study abroad without committing to a full semester.
How do I get started? Visit www.kent.edu/StudyAbroad, and visit us in the Office of Global Education! Details on the back cover.
K en t Stat e Educ at ion A broa d Sta ff
Ediz
Elizabeth
Nick
Amber
Kent State Study Abroad... • • • •
Can take you to more than 60 countries Can last from a week to a semester or longer Can fit your academic plan no matter what major Can cost less than you might think
106 Van Campen Hall 625 Loop Road Across from the Ice Arena and in front of College Towers
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DeWeese Health Center
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Harbourt Hall
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www.kent.edu/studyabroad 330-672-7980 EdAbroad@kent.edu
Office of Global Education K e n t S tat e U n i v e rsity