WASHINGTON, PA (August 29, 2018)—There’s plenty to love about Washington & Jefferson College (W&J)—including our semester-long study abroad opportunities!
Do you want to hone your language skills in Ecuador? Explore the culture of Japan? Volunteer at a koala hospital in Australia? Whatever your dream, semester-long off-campus study can help you achieve it! With programs around the world, the Office of International Programs will help you begin your cross-cultural educational adventure.
This fall we have more than 40 students embarking on semester-long study abroad experiences.
So why should you study abroad?
1. It boosts your resume.
Study abroad shows potential employers that you’re willing to grow, try new things, and get outside your comfort zone. Employers are increasingly hiring those with international experiences, and studying abroad can help you understand the global aspects of your chosen field.
2. It gives context to your education.
Instead of reading news articles on international politics, experience the democracy of another country first hand! Visit the places where history was made, and improve your language skills by interacting with native speakers. Immersing yourself in a new environment makes your education come alive!
3. You’ll take steps to become a global citizen.
Experiencing another country helps you learn far more than you can by reading about it. You’ll become more globally aware, understand the quirks of your own culture, and even learn about yourself.
4. You can choose from more than 30 programs and get the support you need.
W&J has partnerships with schools in six of the seven continents (sorry, no college connections in Antarctica—yet!) with options to suit students in any major. There’s a high level of support throughout the entire process from the Office of International Programs – we are here to help!
5. W&J will help you pay for it. Seriously.
One of the hardest things about travel is figuring out how you’ll pay for it, but W&J has funding opportunities to help. With the Study Abroad Travel Fund, W&J provides financial support to 100% of students who study abroad for a semester or year on approved programs (yes, you read that right: ONE HUNDRED P E R C E N T.) Currently, students are eligible for $1,200 for the cost of airfare, visas, and/or passports. Students can also apply for additional need and merit-based assistance from The International Programs Fund Award, made possible through an endowed gift from John Swick ’47.
Still on the fence? We’ll share testimonials from students who completed programs around the globe, so follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to keep up!
In the meantime, stop by the HUB and start a conversation with us!
- Jennifer Gentzel, Assistant Director of International Programs, jgentzel@washjeff.edu
- Sara Kochuba, Director of Study Abroad, skochuba@washjeff.edu
- Dana Poole, Ph.D., Director of International Student Initiatives, dpoole@washjeff.edu
Mark Your Calendars!
Semester Abroad Showcases: September 5, October 17, November 14, all at 5 pm in the Media Room. Apply for spring 2019 study abroad by October 1!
About Washington & Jefferson College
Washington & Jefferson College, located in Washington, Pa., is a selective liberal arts college founded in 1781. Committed to providing each of its students with the highest-quality undergraduate education available, W&J offers a traditional arts and sciences curriculum emphasizing interdisciplinary study and independent study work. For more information about W&J, visit washjeff.dev, or call 888-W-AND-JAY.
