Taking a summer, semester or year to study abroad can be an incredible, life-changing experience. But many students never bother to check out the various exchange programs IU offers. Excuses include fear of not graduating on time, not knowing another language and not having money to pay for it. \nStudents who choose to go abroad can select from 60 programs in 30 countries and get course credit in the process. Not all the countries have language requirements, and not all are expensive. \n"Most people don't realize that it's probably cheaper to study abroad for a year than to stay in Bloomington and then take a vacation to another country," said Libby DeVoe, associate administrative director for the Office of Overseas Study. Taking a whole semester or academic year gives, according to DeVoe, "a chance to become more than just a tourist." \nThe Office of Overseas Study houses a student information center and aids students throughout the application process. Before any forms are filled out, the staff meets with the student to find out what he or she wants in a program, and if study abroad is right for that person. The application is available both in the office and online. It consists of a form for personal information, and the student must provide two letters of recommendation and a few short essays. \nAcceptance rates to the program are high, partly because the eligibility requirements are made very clear. For example, only students classified as juniors and seniors can study abroad for a semester or a year. Freshmen and sophomores can only go on the summer programs.\n"Students should be confident that they are likely to be accepted," DeVoe said. \nOne of the more underrated programs, said DeVoe, is the summer in Dublin, Ireland, which has a very young, high-tech population, as well as a rich culture. If a student can't find a program through IU that fits his or her needs, the staff will evaluate other programs of study.
Student experiences abroad\nSome of the students who study overseas find that it's an experience that has a deep influence on their lives. The reasons for going vary from learning about culture and language to seeking new life experiences. Most who go experience some sort of culture shock, both when they arrive in the foreign country, and when they return to the United States. Emily Zoss, a senior, found that living in a city the size of London was a big adjustment, especially since she wasn't living on campus and had to use the city's mass transit system.\nAngela Ventling, a senior, spent a year in France and said, while it was difficult, help was always available.\n"It was hard getting used to everything being different, but the great thing about being in the program is that they have people there specifically to help you get acclimated," she said. \nOn the return trip, most students realize their time abroad has changed them. Often they find they are more confident and mature. Jason Kotynski, a junior, said he learned that after a summer in Cuernavaca, Mexico, he needed more humility. \n"Back at home I was always one of the best Spanish speakers in my class," he said. "Then I go to Mexico, and I'm constantly being corrected whenever I talk. I learned that I need to be willing to sound stupid because that was the only way I could get better." \nVentling and Zoss both agreed going abroad made them more independent. \n"I gained courage and drive to conquer fears," Ventling said. "It's a tremendous experience in self growth and empowerment."
Coming home\nAfter a year living abroad, returning home can be an emotional experience as well ' leaving several new friends and a place they called home for a year. But most students are ready to get back into their old life, despite being accustomed to life abroad.\nHarvey Beasley, a senior, spent a year in Japan. \n"At first I never wanted to leave. But after a while, I started to miss my Bloomington classes," he said. "I was taking language and culture classes and felt like such a slacker because every day was so fun. I felt sad leaving, but I knew that it was time to go home."\nJamie Ponce, a senior, returned from Madrid with fond memories. \n"I'm still trying to process all of the challenges and rewards of studying abroad," he said. "What's clear, though, is that Spain is now a part of my life, a complement not only to my studies, but to the way I live." \nMany of the study abroad programs are having informational meetings in September and October. Applications for overseas study next year are due at various times throughout this semester and next. For more information, visit the Office of Overseas Study in Franklin Hall 303 or go online at www.indiana.edu/~overseas.
