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Emory Study Abroad
Thank you very much for your interest in study abroad and supporting your daughter or son in this important experience. The educational value of living and learning in another country can be tremendous. But, studying abroad and the adaptation to another culture and educational setting also pose real challenges. Studying abroad is a complex process that requires a high level of responsibility, and living and learning in a new culture is a big step for many students. At the Center for International Programs Abroad (CIPA), we understand the important role that parents play in supporting students studying abroad, and we have developed this section of our website to address some of the common questions and concerns that parents have about the study abroad experience. Please contact CIPA with any questions.
Status of study abroad at Emory
Emory is nationally ranked in the top twenty among research universities for the percentage of undergraduates studying abroad. Approximately 40% of Emory College students study abroad during their academic career. *While approximately 70% of Emory study abroad students choose to study in Europe, ever-increasing numbers of students are choosing to spend their time abroad in “non-traditional” locations, such as Asia (8%), Latin America and the Caribbean (6%), Africa (5%), and the Middle East (2%). Students majoring or minoring in a wide range of academic disciplines choose to study abroad.
*Figures based on the 2006-07 academic year.
Options
CIPA currently offers over 80 semester program options and 20 faculty-led summer programs in over 40 different countries around the globe. CIPA’s study abroad offerings allow students to earn Emory credits and grades, fulfill requirements, and retain their financial aid while studying abroad. In addition, for an extraordinary “hands-on” experience, CIPA offers students various international service learning and research options.
Quality
Parents can be assured that Emory sees study abroad as a very important and integral part of a student’s educational experience. All of Emory’s approved semester programs are reviewed by a faculty committee and CIPA for their academic quality and the quality of their student services, and all courses that students take abroad are reviewed by academic departments at Emory before they can be taken for Emory credit. The majority of Emory’s summer programs are led by actual Emory faculty who use the overseas location to enhance aspects of their courses and to provide opportunities for students to engage with the local culture. Information from student and faculty evaluations is also taken very seriously in terms of making improvements for future programs. Thus, in these ways, Emory tries to ensure that the experience of students abroad will be academically serious, with the “study” aspect of study abroad receiving priority.
Benefits
We believe in the full range of benefits - educational, personal, and professional - that students receive while studying abroad. Students who study abroad not only develop a knowledge of other cultures that is crucial to American national and international interests, but they also acquire characteristics such as adaptability, independence, initiative, and an appreciation of difference that can enhance their lives and their future careers. We hear frequently that employers, as well as graduate, law, and medical school admissions committees, are very interested in the international experience of candidates and see this as an experience that sets students apart.
Support
Our team includes eleven globally-engaged staff members who provide superior service to College students before, during, and after the study abroad experience. All interested undergraduates have the opportunity to schedule one-on-one advising appointments with a CIPA advisor to discuss their study abroad options. CIPA peer advisors (junior and senior study abroad returnees) are also available for advising, from the student perspective. In addition to individual appointments, students can attend a variety of information sessions, annual fairs, orientations, and re-entry events.
Contact CIPA for more information.
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