Some Do’s and Don’t’s To keep in mind
when you’re a guest in another country p.16
UNIVERSITY PRESS FAU’S FINEST NEWS SOURCE SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 | VOL. 16 # 3
Study Abroad Special Issue
Get Lost So you wanna go
where? Dubai France
Guatemala
Italy
Japan
Spain
Thailand FIND OUT WHICH STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM IS RIGHT FOR YOU P. 4
p. 18
THINK YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO STUDY ABROAD?
We’ll help you rethink that. p. 10
FIRST ISSUE IS FREE; EACH ADDITIONAL COPY IS 50 CENTS AND AVAILABLE IN THE UP NEWSROOM.
Sept. 16, 2014
W
hen I found out I had received a scholarship to study abroad, the first thing I wrote to all my friends was “Shit just got real.” That’s what study abroad does for you. It makes things real. Places you’ve read about, but never touched; food you’ve seen on television, but never tasted; languages you’ve heard, but never understood — it all becomes real. For most of us, getting where we want to go is going to take work, commitment, trial and error, a few failures and some dumb luck. So having a little guidance never hurts.This special issue is part travel guide to FAU’s study abroad programs and part cautionary tale based on some of the missteps I and other novice travelers have taken. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure of
STUDY ABROAD SPECIAL ISSUE
going abroad for the first time. It’s a personal reminder of what it was like to live outside of the familiar. And it’s a tribute to spending the rest of my life never knowing what’s around the corner. Over the course of planning this issue and pitching the idea to people, we had to keep reiterating that my ideas were somehow related to my personal study abroad experience. After a while I had to remind myself, too. So I asked our illustrator, Austin, to give this pop-up travel guide a face. Just a Jiminy Cricket type guide through the sort of stuff I wish I’d known in those moments when shit, did indeed, get real.
-Jillian Melero Special Issue Editor
Read us - upressonline.com Follow us - @upressonline
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The Staff SPECIAL ISSUE EDITOR - Jillian Melero EDITOR-IN-CHIEF - Lulu Ramadan MANAGING EDITOR - Kiki Baxter ASSOCIATE EDITOR - Emily Bloch CREATIVE DIRECTOR - Michelle Friswell ASSISTANT CREATIVE DIRECTOR - Sabrina Martinez BUSINESS MANAGER - Ryan Murphy NEWS EDITOR - Jillian Melero
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ASSISTANT COPY DESK CHIEF - Cristina Solorzano SCIENCE EDITOR - Andrew Fraieli COPY EDITORS - Jason Salcedo, Shafer Ross, Reimy Benitez, Tyler Krome and Sebastion Perez MARKETING MANAGER- Lauren Culp CONTRIBUTORS - Johan Sebastion, Lynnette Cantos, Austin Greene DISTRIBUTION MANAGER - Jake Stuart ADVISERS
SPORTS EDITOR - Wesley Wright
Michael Koretzky
PHOTO EDITOR - Max Jackson
Neil Santaniello
WEB EDITOR - Mohammed F. Emran
Cover photo of Namibia courtesy of Shana Williams
COPY DESK CHIEF - Carissa Giard
Illustration by Austin Greene
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Oh,
T
the places you’ll go...
he Office of International Programs’ upcoming study abroad fair is going to be a smorgasbord of tasty travel options. By the time this issue prints, the OIP will have finalized their itinerary for the 2015 study abroad programs. The more traditionally popular choices — namely Europe — will be available. The OIP will also promote some new and developing
By Jillian Melero Photo of Arc de Triomphe in France by Ryan Murphy
programs focused on expanding science and industry in other regions. The fair will preview the upcoming 2015 programs and will give students an opportunity to ask questions about planning, preparation and itineraries with faculty. Faculty-led programs are typically active over the summer. Semester exchange program dates vary by country and school and
direct enroll programs mean that you enroll at your host university rather than through FAU. Director of OIP Catherine Meschievitz recommends that students meet with their academic advisers before planning their study abroad trip. Here’s our list of countries and programs offered to study abroad this year:
Czech Republic
France
Germany
Summer, Direct Enroll Program Anglo-American University Language of Instruction: English Courses: Humanities, social sciences, European history, international relations, journalism, communication and more
Summer, Direct Enroll Program American Business School in Paris Language of Instruction: English Courses: Business, international relations and European economics
Summer, Faculty-Led Program Berlin Culture, society and language Professors Evelyn Trotter and Andrea DeCapua
European Destinations
Semester Exchange Program Anglo American University Language of Instruction: English Courses: Comprehensive course offerings Fall, spring and summer semester options available
England Summer, Faculty-Led Program Graduate program in education Professor Roberta Weber Direct Enroll Program London South Bank University Courses: Comprehensive course offerings Fall, spring and summer semester options available
Finland Semester Exchange Program Aalto University School of Economics Language of Instruction: English Courses: Business
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Semester Exchange Program American Business School in Paris Courses: Business Semester Exchange Program Ecole des Mines d’Ales Language of Instruction: French Courses: Engineering and computer science Semester Exchange Program ESSEC Business School Language of Instruction: English Courses: Business
Summer, Exchange Program Anhalt University Language of Instruction: English Courses: Architecture Semester Exchange Program Federation of German-American Clubs Ludwig-Maximilians-Universitat Language of Instruction: English and German Courses: Comprehensive course offerings One Year Exchange Program Federation of German-American Clubs *Scholarship from the Federation to study at any of the participating German universities such as Berlin, Munich, Dusseldorf, Hamburg, Tubingen and more. Language of Instruction: German and some in English
European Destinations CONT. Ireland Semester Exchange Program Dublin Institute of Technology Language of Instruction: English Courses: Business
Summer, Faculty-Led Programs Catania, Orvieto, Venice Summer, Direct Enroll Program Language of Instruction: English Courses: Italian language, culture and cinema, humanities, anthropology, art history, social sciences, and more
Portugal Summer, Direct Enroll Program Language of Instruction: English Courses: Leadership & strategic knowledge, intl. financial management, brand management & marketing communications, persuasion, choices and consumer behavior, intl. marketing strategy and simulation game, and cross cultural communications & negotiation
University Press
Semester Exchange Program ISCTE- Lisbon University Institute Language of Instruction: English Courses: Business and some Portuguese language classes
Spain
Italy
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Photo of Venice, Italy courtesy of Donna Selch
Sept. 16, 2014
Summer, Faculty-Led Program Professor Frédéric Conrod Summer Direct Enroll Program Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Language of Instruction: English Courses: Spanish language & culture, humanities, social sciences, politics, economics and more Semester Exchange Program Instituto Químico Sarrià Language of Instruction: English Courses: Business Semester Exchange Program University of Castilla - La Mancha Language of Instruction: English Courses: Computer science and engineering
Sweden Business Exchange Program in Stockholm Language of Instruction: English Courses: Corporate finance, innovation, and tourism and hostpitality marketing Students can study in Sweden for two, four or six weeks Semester Exchange Program Stockholm University, School of Business Language of Instruction: English Courses: Business
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Photo of Khao Suk National Park in Thailand by Kiki Baxter
Non-European Destinations Australia
Costa Rica
Semester Exchange Program University of Technology Sydney Language of Instruction: English Courses: Comprehensive course offerings
Summer, Faculty-Led Program Field Study in International Economics Professors Rupert Rhodd and Eric Chiang
Ecuador
Brazil Semester Exchange Program Universidade do Sul de Santa Catarina Language of Instruction: Portuguese Courses: Business Semester Direct Enroll Program Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais Language of Instruction: Portuguese Courses: Business
Semester Exchange Program Universidad San Francisco de Quito Language of Instruction: English and Spanish Courses: Comprehensive course offerings
Japan
Korea
Summer faculty-led program Fukuoka Professor Sumiko Uo
Korea University Sejong Campus Language of Instruction: English Courses: Business and some Portuguese language classes
Semester Exchange Program Kansai Gaidai University Language of Instruction: English Courses: Comprehensive course offerings Eligibility: Sophomore or higher with a 3.0 minimum GPA 8
Summer, Faculty-Led Programs Ethnographic fieldwork in coastal Ecuador Professor Michael Harris Archaeological field school in coastal Ecuador Professor Valentina Martinez
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Sept. 16, 2014
Thailand Summer, Exchange Program Language of Instruction: English
Fall, spring and summer semester options available
Guatemala Spring Faculty-Led Program A Cultural immersion in primary care (Nursing) Language of Instruction: English Courses: Nursing
Israel University of Haifa Language of Instruction: English and Hebrew Courses: Comprehensive course offerings
Courses: Architecture, business, communication, engineering, language and culture, psychology and science. Semester Exchange Program Chulalongkorn University Language of Instruction: English Courses: Architecture, business, communication, engineering, language and culture, psychology and science.
Gimme Money
By Jillian Melero Illustration by Austin Greene
Based purely on my lack of funding, study abroad wasn’t something I planned on doing during college. It didn’t seem like anything I’d be able to do in the near future. In 2012, I received an email notifying me that I qualified for the William E. Greene study abroad scholarship. FAU’s Office of International Programs assists students in finding and applying for various study abroad scholarships throughout the year. Some of the programs are funded by particular colleges at FAU, while some are funded by the governments of the host countries. Here we’d like to highlight three scholarships that we feel offer the most opportunities for students.
The Gilman International Scholarship
About one in three applicants will receive financial aid from the Gilman Scholarship. The Gilman is a good program for undergraduates and students from diverse backgrounds. It’s meant to help build educational skills and help build job markets in fields that are underrepresented in the country.
What You Need to Apply ·U.S. citizenship ·Pell Grant recipient, either at the time of your application or during your time abroad ·Your length of stay must be at least four weeks (most summer programs, the shortest programs, are six to eight weeks) ·The program you apply to must offer credit at your U.S. school
You Should Really Apply If... ·You’re from a diverse ethnic background ·You’d like to study in a nontraditional (read, non-European) country
Deadlines · For spring programs: first Tuesday of October · For summer, fall and academic year programs: first Tuesday of March Apply online at
WWW.IIE.ORG/GILMAN Deadlines For the Scholarship, Feb. 4, 2015 Program start dates can be no earlier than June 1. 10
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·You’re studying a field that’s underrepresented in education abroad
You Can Get Even More Money If... You’re studying a critical need language, you will automatically be considered for the Gilman Critical Need Language Award, bringing the total possible award up to $8,000. Check out our sidebar of possible critical need languages.
Critical Need Languages Include: Arabic Japanese Korean Russian Swahili Chinese languages Bahasa Indonesia Indic languages Persian languages Turkic languages
The Fulbright U.S. Student Scholarship Program If you’re looking for a long stay in a foreign country and a steady job afterwards, this scholarship might be for you. Fulbright is geared toward graduate students and young professionals. It’s available to graduate students pursuing independent study. It’s also meant to help foster English
language skills in other countries, so it’s available to those seeking English Teaching Assistantships. The programs typically last from a year to two years, dates vary by country and program.
What You Need to Apply U.S. citizenship Be a graduate student or apply in the fall of your senior year
You Should Really Apply If You’re interested in independent study or English Teaching Assistantships You’re looking to go abroad for a year to two years
Deadlines Campus Deadline September, annually Final Deadline October, annually contact cmeschie@fau.edu or 561-297-1039 for details Apply online at WWW.FULBRIGHTONLINE. ORG
The Boren Awards
National Security Education Program This scholarship is for those interested in a career path related to national security — and those who don’t mind studying in a few not-so-secure countries. The Boren Scholarships and Fellowships are geared toward building foreign language and science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) related skills for use in national security
services. After graduation, Boren recipients are required to work in the federal government for at least one year in a position with national security responsibilities.
What You Need to Apply
You Can Get Even More Money If...
· U.S. citizenship · Be enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student · Your program of study should focus on the languages and cultures of Africa, Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, Eurasia, Latin America or the Middle East · Minimum stay is eight weeks for undergraduates, 12 weeks for graduates
- You stay longer — the longer the program the more funding you’re likely to receive: · $8,000 for eight week summer programs · $10,000 per semester $20,000 for a full academic year
o Preference is given to programs lasting six months to a maximum of two years
Deadlines For the Scholarship, Feb. 4, 2015 Program start dates can be no earlier than June 1st Apply online at WWW.BORENAWARDS.ORG Sept. 16, 2014
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Boren Preferred Countries Preferred Countries:
Be aware that some scholarships may not cover all of your travel expenses. When I received my scholarship, I still had to pay out of pocket for my visa, my passport, and the costs of getting a copy of my birth certificate. Besides that, I also had to pay for my airline ticket and then turn my receipt in to the foundation in order to be reimbursed. It’s also likely that you’ll need to be up to date on your immunizations. “Make sure to get the required shots and immunizations months before you travel. My shots ended up costing me more than my actual month-long trip, so budget accordingly. Depending on where in the country you go, some shots are more recommended than others. For example, malaria shots aren’t recommended if you’re only visiting major cities. It’s also recommended to get Hepatitis C, Typhoid Fever, and Japanese Encephalitis vaccines before you go.” -- Kiki Baxter Some of these shots can get costly. But Meschievitz says that students can mitigate this cost by visiting Student Health Services and getting some of the basic vaccinations at student rates. Meschievitz also says that occasionally, arrangements can be made with Boca Passport Health to receive immunizations at discounted group rates.
Albania Algeria Angola Argentina Armenia Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Belarus Benin Bosnia and Herzegovina Brazil Bulgaria Cambodia Cape Verde Chile China Colombia Congo, Democratic Republic of the* Congo, Republic of the Cote d’Ivoire Croatia Cuba Czech Republic Egypt El Salvador Eritrea* Ethiopia Georgia Ghana Guatemala Haiti Honduras* Hungary India Indonesia Israel Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Korea, South Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan
Lebanon* Liberia Macedonia Malaysia Mali* Mexico Moldova Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Nepal Nicaragua* Nigeria* Oman Pakistan* Panama Peru Philippines Poland Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Sierra Leone Slovakia Slovenia South Africa Sri Lanka Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Tunisia Turkey Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates Uzbekistan Venezuela Vietnam Yemen*
*Given the current security situation, Boren does not anticipate making awards to these countries in 2015.
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Don’t be an
Ugly Tourist ou know how South Floridians feel about Canadian snowbirds in the winter? That’s pretty much how some Europeans feel about day-tripping tourists all year long. The general consensus from natives is: Make an effort. You don’t have to be fluent in the language, but you should at least make an attempt to enjoy and adapt to some of the
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surrounding culture. Learn the basics you need to get by — your “please,” your “thank you,” your “where’s the bathroom?” — and work your way up from there. A smile and some humility will get you a long way, even with a tied tongue. Here’s what a few student travelers had to say about the biggest do’s and don’t’s of study abroad.
Italy by Cristina Solorzano
Thailand by Kiki Baxter
Don’t be that person — that typical Tommy Bahama and white sneaker wearing, shutter-bug tourist. Locals can spot you from a mile away, and you won’t like their reaction to you. “Anybody who stopped, like tourists stopping and taking pictures, [Italians] get annoyed and you can tell,” said senior finance major Holly Olsen of the Venice summer program. “I even heard some people speaking in Italian, badly about Americans, [saying] that we drink too much soda, eat too many cheeseburgers and put ketchup on everything.” It’s even annoying to your fellow travelers. “There were points in time where my roommates were like ‘stupid tourists! I’m gonna knock them over if they get in my way’,” Olsen added. You can easily avoid the malice of the locals by trying to adapt to the culture. Forget your American customs — Italians love when people are genuinely interested in learning the language and culture. Do dare to travel even more. One of the benefits of Europe is the proximity of its countries — everything is a bus, train or plane ride away. “I would recommend traveling outside the country — taking trains, taking planes. If it’s $300 — I can fly home from Florida to [New] Jersey for $300 — you might as well fly to Paris for $300,” said Olsen.
Do visit the Opium Museum. Learn about the history of opium around the world and how it affected the Thai people and economy. The museum is interactive and it takes a few hours to tour, but it’s definitely worth it. Do check out a full moon party. This event is a staple for tourists, but you’ll end up meeting lots of people from all around the world. There’s a lot of music, dancing, fire spinning and other kinds of entertainment. Sometimes there’s even a fireworks show. Don’t drink water that’s not bottled (or brush your teeth with tap water). Don’t even think about drugs. You’ll get locked up in a Thai prison for the rest of your life. Seriously. Don’t ride an elephant. They are horribly abused by their mahoots (caretakers). I recommend visiting the Elephant Nature Park in Chiang Mai. The elephants there have been rescued from all over Thailand and are cared for by volunteers. You can volunteer (and stay) there and have the opportunity to feed and bathe elephants. Don’t leave food on your plate. Try to finish as much as you can.
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Ugly American Graffiti of an Italian portrayal of American tourists in Venice, Italy outside San Marco. The photo was taken by an FAU student studying abroad in Venice in summer 2014. Photo courtesy of Holly Olsen.
When in Rome, do what the Romans do, right? That goes for everywhere else too...
Japan by Lynnette CAntos Do make things a little easier on yourself. Convenience stores in Japan are truly convenient in so many ways: Japanese people not only go to konbinis to get snacks and hot foods, but also everyday items (medicine, cosmetics, stationery). You can purchase tickets (concerts, movies, theme parks, etc.), even mail out postage and pay utility bills and taxes. And the majority are open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year — how convenient is that?! They’re located within walking distance of landmark places like train stations, schools and offices. Some of the different konbini companies are well-known in the U.S. such as 7-Eleven (7 & I Holdings) and Circle K (Sunkus). Other popular ones local to Japan are Lawson, Family Mart and Mini Stop. Don’t be a slob. Cleanliness is next to politeness. One key note about Japan is the lack of trash cans on the streets. Japan takes responsibility for their
Spain by Jillian Melero own litter — citizens carry their trash with them inside a separate bag to dispose of when they find a nearby trash can or wait until they arrive home. Do check out the hot springs. “There's a strict ‘no clothes allowed’ rule. That might seem odd, but it's such a cultural thing that no Japanese person would even bat an eyelash,” said junior language and linguistics major Shelby Wingate. “I would especially recommend going on a rainy day, because you can have the nice hot water to keep you toasty, but cold rain to keep you from getting overheated.” Don’t make assumptions. “This is something every American should know: Japanese food does not equal sushi. Sushi is definitely great Japanese food, but honestly, I only ate sushi maybe three or four times during the two months I spent in Japan this summer,” said graduate language and linguistics major Bryan Candela.
Don’t eat on the run. Hand food is not a thing in Spain. No one eats while they walk, unless it’s gelato. Every meal is considered a social occasion to gather with friends and enjoy conversation. Do slow down and enjoy yourself. Spaniards believe taking the time to savor the little things in life. “Students are usually pretty shocked by it at the beginning, because we're so ingrained in a culture that makes work, money, the center of everything, the finality of our existence and when they get there they understand that it's not perceived like that in the entire world,” said Frederic Conrod, who studied abroad in Madrid. Don’t squabble over dividing up the check. It’s customary for one person to pay for each round of food and drinks at each bar, with the understanding that the favor will be returned at the next bar. Don’t be early to the party. Much like South Florida, you’re lucky if the clubs even open before 11 p.m., and they don’t start to get interesting until after 2 a.m. People usually start heading home around 6 a.m. to get ready for the work day. Siestas are sounding even better now, aren’t they? Don’t overdo it. Even though it’s a late night, it’s no excuse to get sloppy. The drinking age in Spain is 16, so you’re not impressing anyone. “Here alcohol is still felt as a prohibited thing, that's what makes it attractive,” Conrod said. “Over there people will have wine with dinner with their host families and basically they're being offered beer and wine even if they're under 21, so I try to let them understand that it's ok to try but don't overdo it, it's the reinforcement of the stereotype of the drunk america, you're an ambassador of your culture.”
FAU student Holly Olsen stands in front of graffiti in San Zaccharia in Venice, Italy during her study abroad trip in summer 2014. Photo Courtesy of Holly Olsen Sept. 16, 2014
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Dubai
Story by Johan Sebastian Photos by Mohamed Abdihakim
D
ubai is a grandiose mixture of modern Western influence with traditional Arab culture. Bustling skylines — encompassing some of the most architecturally impressive buildings in the world — and streets filled with super cars, Lamborghini police cruisers and camel handlers offering rides along the beach adorn this incredible city.
How to get there Dubai is part of the Executive MBA program curriculum. It is also included in the Boren National Security Education Program scholarship.
People/Socializing As a city populated by bored billionaires and migrant workers, there is no shortage of activities to do — regardless of your budget. If you’re looking to spend some of your hard-earned money, Dubai is home to the largest shopping mall on Earth. With over 1,200 stores, the Dubai mall also contains an aquarium, an ice rink that accommodates up to 2,000 spectators and an indoor SEGA theme park. Even if you feel like experiencing a winter wonderland amid 90-degree weather, the Mall of Emirates has you covered with an indoor ski resort featuring five different slopes and adorable penguins to greet guests. As for sightseeing and nightlife, with the rapid growth of its infrastructure over the past 10 years, Dubai is a futuristic jewel amid the desert, containing modern engineering marvels. The Palm Jumeriah — a man made archipelago— is easily accessible by car. Museums are abundant and affordable, covering everything from the city’s fascinating history to modern art. The nightlife in Dubai is comparable to Miami, a mixture of dozens of cultures in a pursuit of hedonism until just before sunrise. Downtown hotels offer an array of venues from casual bars to nightclubs perched on skyscrapers offering panoramic views of the entire city.
Food Americans may be apprehensive to visit the United Arab Emirates due to differences between Western and Middle Eastern cultures, but they need not worry in Dubai. As tourism is one of Dubai’s main revenues, the city is cosmopolitan haven. Dubai’s citizens tend to be understanding of the cultural mistranslations that can occur, and some faux pas that visitors commit will be overlooked. You should still be conscious of the culture. Things like reaching out with your left hand and showing the soles of your shoes or feet are deemed as unclean in Arabic culture. Making the “ok” sign represents an anus. Unlike other cities in the United Arab Emirates, drinking is legal in Dubai within private establishments and homes, but public intoxication and drunk driving is a big no-no. While there are civil courts, Sharia law (Based on the Quran and the practices of the prophet Mohammed) is the governing justice system and the police tend to show little leniency with law breakers. Tipping etiquette is similar to American culture. Ten to 15 percent is customary for dining and around five percent for taxi drivers or valets. Cell phone usage also parallels the Western world, as citizens of Dubai tend to constantly check their social networks and texts. 18
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“Dubai is a very diverse area. it’ s very similar and even more modern and standardized than the U.S. they’re very open to different religions, different cultures and you really can’t mess up becasue they're very ok with stuff like that.” - Sheeren Ali, president of students for justice in Palestine
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France Story by Cristina Solorzano Photos by Ryan Murphy
D
espite what stereotypes have you believe, France isn’t an arrogant, stuckup nation filled with rude people and strange cuisine (escargot and frog legs, anyone?). Instead it is a country bursting with passion, pride and beauty.
How to get there American Business School in Paris, summer term, direct enroll
People/Socializing According to Euro Trip Tips travel blog, there’s nothing more annoying to the French than a tourist assuming everyone speaks English, and they openly express their annoyance. So try to speak French, even if you completely butcher the pronunciation. It goes a long way with locals. Greeting people can get awkward. When first meeting someone, the standard handshake will do. It’s the second meeting that gets tricky. The traditional French greeting is a kiss on each check, but it varies from person to person. Some people do the double kiss (a kiss on each cheek twice), some prefer to kiss from the left cheek to the right, some from the right cheek to the left. If you go out for drinks, always remember one thing: Look at a person directly in the eyes when you toast. According to the French, you will have seven years of bad sex if you don’t.
Food Love bread? Then you’ll love France. Bread is a huge staple of French cuisine and eaten with every meal. According to Rough Guides, breakfast is small, usually a baguette with jam and coffee. Lunch, served from noon to 2 p.m., is the main meal of the day. Most bistros offer a “menu du jour” (menu of the day), consisting of a main dish and a starter or dessert at a set price. Crepes are among some of the most popular lunch items. Dinner is from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., typically consisting of a two to three course meal. France is most known for its cheese. According to Fodor’s, finding a local fromagerie (cheese shop) and taking a bite of some brie in its home country should be on the to-do list. Take a break from bistro dining, find a local market, load up on cheese, bread and wine — have a picnic.
Culture The French are very proud — Fodor’s makes a point to note the French mentality, as they have such a strong sense of nationalism that is often interpreted as an elitist attitude. Don’t be deterred. Drinking, especially wine, is a favorite pastime of the French; however, getting drunk is not. The French like to enjoy a nice glass, or bottle, of wine before (aperitif) or after dinner (digestif).
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“They want you to try to speak their language. At least say hello in French. Know the basics.” -HOLLY OLSEN, study abroad student
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Guatemala
Story by Lulu Ramadan Photos courtesy of Office of International Programs
How to get there Spring faculty-led nursing program
People/Socializing If you want to fit in, it’s good to know that Guatemalans hardly wear shorts (or short skirts, if you’re a woman). They generally wear pants and calf-length skirts, according to Rough Guides. You don’t want to be caught out alone in the middle of the night because of the robbery and pickpocket rate according to Lonely Planet. Knowing Spanish will take you a long way because most of the citizens in the impoverished parts of Guatemala only speak Spanish. Keep a quetzal on you — the monetary equivalent to 13 cents — at all times. You have to pay to use the bathroom. And they often don’t have toilet paper or soap, so carry that too.
I
t’s not the tourist destination side of Guatemala you’ll be traveling to, but the impoverished communities. The nursing study abroad program takes students to Guatemala to help care for the residents in the village outskirts of the city. Guatemala’s revenue comes from tourism and there’s plenty to see and even more to know.
Health and Conditions Guatemala isn’t the luxurious vacation spot you’re used to. Here’s what a few FAU nursing students who had a chance to go on the spring 2014 trip had to say: “I have made new and enduring friends, gained a new appreciation for life, especially for the things I sometimes take for granted, such as turning on my tap and having clean running water,” said Julia Brooks. “Guatemalans need adequate food, clean water, birth control, chronic disease management, pain relief … the list is endless,” said Donna Ihle. In many of the villages you’ll visit, you’ll see that families live in unkempt homes, often with no electricity or running water. “I had thought that I had prepared myself enough for what I would see in terms of the poverty and lack of basic healthcare and nutrition,” said Stephanie Dewberry. “As it turned out, there was no proper way in which I could have prepared myself for what I would experience on the trip.”
Culture Despite the level of poverty, there is beauty to be found in Guatemala. The architecture and art take influence from ancient Mayan civilizations. You’re also surrounded by dormant volcanoes in Antigua. Tourists often take night climbs up the volcano slopes, according to Lonely Planet. In the impoverished parts of the country, you’ll find families and small children selling cheap trinkets outside homes (usually how the family is supported financially).
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“I have made new and enduring friends, gained a new appreciation for life, especially for the things I sometimes take for granted such as turning on my tap and having clean running water,” -Julia Brooks, Study Abroad Student
Italy
W
hile Italy is a country known for its vast history — from Rome to Venice, the Colosseum to the Vatican, and everywhere in between — it is most known for its emphatic people and lush cuisine.
Story by Cristina Solorzano Photos by Donna Selch
How to get there Orvieto, summer term III, faculty led Catania, summer term, faculty led Venice, summer term II, faculty led
People/Socializing Italians are very welcoming. As a culture, they love to celebrate life, talking among friends and family over a good meal. The two quintessential Italian pastimes are talking and eating. According to Rough Guides, it’s traditional to greet someone with a handshake upon first meeting. Once familiar, a kiss on each cheek (starting with the right cheek) is traditional. You’ll find many people like to enjoy drinks and conversation over apiritivo. Similar to American happy hour, an apiritivo is offered at some bars as a kind of before dinner snack from 6 to 8 p.m. You pay for a drink and get a free buffet of snacks and small appetizers.
Food Most college students can’t get by without their morning cup of coffee, but be prepared because Italians don’t do coffee the American way. According to Rough Guide, breakfast — consisting of bread and pastries — is always enjoyed with a cappuccino or espresso. *Never order a cappuccino as an after-dinner or dessert drink. They are a meal in itself, reserved for breakfast. Espressos are the after-dinner or dessert drink. Dinner, the main meal of the day, is a marathon. Starting around 8:30 p.m., a typical dinner usually consists of four courses — the antipasto (cold-cuts, cheese, bruschetta), the primo (pasta), the secondo with contorni (meat and fish with side dishes), and dolce (sometimes specialty desserts like tiramisu and panna cotta, or just fresh fruit).
Culture Italians are very expressive. You’ll often find people engaged in heated and lively conversation, with hand gestures continually used. Euro Trip Tips, travel blog recommends not using hand gestures casually as it could easily be interpreted as an insult. Italians really savor their time. You won’t find people rushing around, but rather wandering, almost aimlessly, along the streets. Italians don’t like the cold. Ice cubes in your drink are nonexistent. And if you walk in the street with wet hair, prepare to be yelled at by the locals. When visiting holy ground, such as the Vatican, make sure to be covered up (no spaghetti straps or tank tops). It’s a sign of disrespect. 24
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"Step outside of your shell, be uncomfortable and try to speak to people because it helps you so much, and you meet amazing people.” -HOLLY OLSEN, study abroad student
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Japan Story by Lynnette Cantos Photos by Shanna Williams
A
blend of ancient shrines and modern skyscrapers are the forefront of Japan’s visual appeal. After becoming allies with the United States during World War II, Japan has had a growing amount of American influence. With their focus on globalization in time for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, expect a warm welcome — or should I say, “irasshaimase” (いらっしゃいませ).
How to get there Fukuoka, Fukuoka Prefecture: summer term III, faculty-led program Hirakata, Osaka Prefecture: fall and spring semester, exchange programs
People/Socializing ‘I’m sorry’ or ‘excuse me’ are always appreciated in the form of “sumimasen” (すみません). The Japanese value politeness and good manners, so if you haven’t brushed up on your etiquette, prepare to do so while in Japan. However, what is considered bad manners in the U.S. can be opposite in Japan. While it’s considered rude and impolite to slurp your noodles here, in Japan it’s seen as a sign that you are enjoying the meal. Eating your noodle bowl quietly shows that you are not satisfied with it and will upset the chef. Even if your Japanese language skills aren’t polished, as long as you show that you are trying to communicate with someone by asking key questions, they will go the extra mile to help you. Don’t forget to thank themwith an “arigatou gozaimasu” (あり がとうございます) for their assistance!
Food Breakfast and lunch are both small in portion compared to dinner meals and they are usually packed in bentou (べんとう) boxes. Homemade boxes are normally decorated with cute faces and animal shapes. For a quick fix, there’s always a ready-made set inside convenience stores — or “konbini” (コンビニ). Dinner time in Japan can vary upon your status — if you are part of a family household, then your dinner will consist of home-cooked meals with noodles or curry rice. If you are a “salaryman” — English loan word for a business person — or a college student cramming in some late night studies, you can always wander into an izakaya tavern, enjoy quick bites of takoyaki, sashimi and yakitori skewers and drink a cold beer. Raise your glass and shout a hearty “kanpai” (かんぱい)!
“[ Japan] has so many districts so it's incredibly diverse. You can go from the chic, high-fashion of Tenjin to the rural and mountainous areas of Dazaifu and everything in between." -Shelby Wingate, Study Abroad Student 26
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Photo by Lynnette Cantos
Spain Story and photos by Jillian Melero
O
ne of the biggest visual impacts of Spain is its architecture. Mudejar-style architecture blends Roman and Arabic elements. This also speaks to the rich cultural history in Spain, as the majority of the population is Jewish, Islamic or Christian.
How to get there • Madrid, summer term, faculty led by Dr. Frederic Conrod • Barcelona, summer term, direct enroll • Barcelona, semester exchange
People/Socializing • “I’m sorry” or “excuse me” are reserved for grave events. *Pro-tip: Don’t expect someone to say “excuse me” over invading your personal space on a narrow sidewalk or at a crowded bar. • It’s really not that serious. Small talk is considered disingenuous. People actually want to know your opinion on social issues, politics and foreign policy. They are just as curious about you as you are about them, and they’re not afraid to ask. • People are not shy about eye contact. If you look out of your element, they will notice you. And they’ll probably stare. So don’t give them a reason to. • Don’t drink like a rookie. Having a glass of wine or beer with your afternoon meal and late night snacks is commonplace. Getting sloppy is not. • Public Bathrooms You will be lucky if the bathroom has bath tissue, paper towels and soap, let alone all three. Carry a bathroom kit – tissues, hand sanitizer, whatever you gotta do.
Food • Breakfast and Second Breakfast The first meal is light, usually just a cafe con leche (coffee with milk) and a tostada con jamon* (toast with ham). The second meal happens around 10 or 11 a.m. and is usually a small sandwich or potato frittata. Jamon Iberico (Iberian or Spanish ham) is touted among the finest in the world. It comes from a specific breed of pig, from a particular region of forest. The highest grade ham comes from pigs who feed only on acorns from the forest. • Lunch By 2 p.m. most commercial businesses will shut down for an extended lunch break. This excludes some restaurants and grocery stores in larger cities. • Siesta This is for people who know how to do lunch right. It’s your post-lunch nap time. • Tapas From 8 to 10 p.m. is a good old-fashioned evening pub crawl. It’s customary to visit several bars and restaurants, order the best dish or drink at each location, then move on to the next. • Dinner 10 p.m. If tapas weren’t enough and you need to get a solid meal in you before going clubbing for the night, this is the time to do it. 28
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“[In Spain] you're always interacting with people. the real space of living, the true space of living is 'la calle' (the streets) and basically people don't have that same need for personal space, its more about the communal space, the getting together with friends, the rhythm of life."- Frederic Conrod, Assistant Professor of Comparative Literature
S.U.P. A Registered Student Organization at FAU速
If you need accommodations to fully participate in this event please contact Melissa Rosado a rosadom@fau.edu or TTY Relay Station . 1-800-955-8770. Please contact 4 business days prior to the event.
Thailand Story and photos by Kiki Baxter
How to get there Chulalongkorn University, summer, fall and spring semesters, exchange program
F
orget everything you learned about Thailand in “The Hangover 2” — there is more to this beautiful country than ladyboys and crazy drug scandals. Thailand’s inexpensive exchange rate makes it a popular vacation destination and a great place for college students to have an adventure.
People/Socializing When greeting a Thai person, place your hands in prayer position and bow your upper body. You can use this expression to thank somebody or say goodbye. Make sure to take off your shoes before going into a temple, home or building. Pointing your feet at someone is considered rude to Thai people. Most people who live and work in major cities will speak some English, but try to learn simple phrases. Depending on where you go, there are different ways to say the same thing, even hello (“sawasdee-ka” in Chiang Mai; “sawasdee-jow” in Chiang Rai). Ladies — in the event you encounter a monk, which is highly likely, feel free to talk to them and take pictures, but don’t touch them. Monks are not allowed to touch women.
Food Have an open mind and try some of the authentic cuisine. Pad Thai and curry dishes are Thai favorites and enjoyed by the tourists, too. Try some local fruits from the street market like mangosteen and rambutan. While you’re there, dare yourself to snack on some fried cockroaches. Thais use their forks to push food into their spoon and then spoon food into their mouths. They don’t stab food with their forks and eat like we do here. Also, chop sticks are used for noodle dishes. Take a Thai cooking course and learn how to bring some of your favorite dishes back home.
Culture Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles.” Over 90 percent of the Thai population is Buddhist and they happen to love tourists. It is common to see a monk walking around town outside of the temples. Most of them are modern — they have cell phones and drive cars. When visiting a temple, make sure to dress appropriately. Ladies should plan to cover their chest, shoulders and legs. Thai people respect their elders, even if that person is only one year older than them. As a tourist, you should “do as the Romans do” and express your utmost respect to older people you encounter. Lots of restrooms in Thailand are traditionally Eastern. That means “squatty potties.” You probably won’t be able to avoid them — believe me, I tried — unless you stay at a Western hotel or eat at a Western restaurant. Also, make sure you bring toilet paper and soap with you. 30
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Check out the white and black temples in Chiang Mai, but Stand or sit below a Buddha statue. Always be lower than Buddha.
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