Studying abroad gives students the chance to explore new cultures. There are several options for students to study abroad, based on if they choose a faculty-led trip.

Alyssa Mazey is the assistant director of international programs and education abroad for the College of Arts and Sciences. Mazey shared some of the more unique programs — from  biological field studies in South Africa to the Jewish Studies Program in Poland — and how students can gain from more than just the classroom in their study abroad programs.

“There are skills that students and faculty learn that are not necessarily outlined in the syllabus such as critical thinking, communication and articulation, the importance of nonverbal communication, adaptability, etc.,” Mazey said. “Many of these skills could not be learned in a classroom. … Most importantly, students learn to trust themselves.”

Florence, Italy

Perhaps the most popular destination for students wishing to study abroad is the Kent State campus in Florence, Italy, which offers three kinds of programs: a full semester abroad, the summer program and faculty-led courses.

The semester abroad courses typically take place at the Florence Center, which operates just as any U.S.-based Kent State campus would. The courses are offered for a variety of majors in an attempt to ensure that students from all areas of study are working toward their degree. Students in the semester abroad program take a minimum of 12 credit hours.

The Florence Summer Institute takes place throughout four weeks, typically during June. Students generally take between six or seven credit hours, usually equating to two classes. Faculty-led programs are usually between a week and three weeks, typically offered through the College of Arts and Sciences. The courses give students opportunities to study abroad in a more focused, single-subject area led by faculty members.

For the Spring 2019 semester in Florence, students will arrive January 7 and 8. Mandatory on-site orientation is January 9-12, and classes will officially begin January 14. Spring break is March 25-31 and students will have no classes on Easter Monday, which is April 22. Classes end on May 2, with the finals being May 6-9. 

Geneva, Switzerland

Geneva is home to the European headquarters of the United Nations, World Health Organization and many other international and nongovernmental entities. Geneva offers beautiful scenery and outdoor activities, from hiking and skiing in the Swiss Alps to beaches, sporting events and theater. 

Deadline to register for Spring 2019 is September 15. Requirements for this program include: A full-time, degree-seeking university student with a 2.0 cumulative GPA and 15 completed credit hours. Withdrawal deadline is November 15. Total cost of the program is $14,220.

The courses offered in this program are business and management, international relations/political science, media communications, computer science, French language, history/European studies, psychology, photography, design and an internship program.

Students must have full-time enrollment. Undergraduates need a minimum of 12 credit hours; graduate students need a minimum of nine credit hours. This program is split academically into two, eight-week halves. It is recommended for undergraduate students to take two courses during each term.    

Prague, Czech Republic

Students can experience the rich history and culture of one of Europe’s most beautiful cities through Kent State’s partnership with Anglo-American University in Prague.

The deadline to apply for this program is October 15 for the spring semester. For Summer 2019, it is April 1. Requirements for this program are the same as with the program in Geneva.

Classes offered through this program are related to business administration, international relations/political science, journalism, communications, social sciences, humanities, Jewish studies, European studies, visual art studies, electives and internship course/placement.

Total cost for the program is $8,060.

Simon Hannig is an assigning editor. Contact him at [email protected].