Study abroad sign-ups for the upcoming term are in full swing this month, allowing students to explore the world, immerse themselves in different cultures, and expand their academic horizons. 

 The university currently offers three unique study abroad experiences. These programs will take place this spring from January 17 to May 8 in Oxford, England; Montevideo, Uruguay; and Leipzig, Germany. Spots for the Oxford program are currently full, but students can still apply and join the waitlist.

Dr. Beatriz Walker, a professor in the language and literature department, will be traveling to Montevideo. Students who join this program with Dr. Walker can take all 15 credit hours for the semester in Spanish.

Dr. Joe McAnulty, a professor in the education department, will be traveling to Leipzig. Both of these programs still have spots available, and all programs will be accepting applications for spring until November 1. 

The program fees for the full spring semester are set between $7,000 and $8,000, depending on the desired destination. This fee currently is inclusive of airfare, overseas medical insurance, group excursions, and housing. According to the study abroad office, students typically spend an additional $1,000 to $2,500 on personal expenses.

“Specific limited scholarships are offered for those in the education program,” said Lindsay Snyder, Study Abroad coordinator, for students who are interested in going to Leipzig this spring. Additionally, those who wish to apply for Uruguay are able to receive a $1,000 dollar scholarship. 

Brenna Raffels, junior multimedia major from Magnolia, had a life-changing time in Oxford and shares positive notes from the experience:

“If you have the chance to do study abroad, do it! It is an absolutely amazing experience and it teaches you so much about the world around you. There are tons of opportunities where you can explore and experience new things,” Raffels says. 

 The Study Abroad office hosts an annual application party for those wanting to learn more about these locations and the various adjustments and improvements that the program has made. This event will take place on Sept 26 at 6 p.m. in the campus mall area.