Study abroad offers alternative learning
By Kayla Amos
[email protected]
Staff Writer
Do you ever find yourself wishing that learning was a little more active and hands-on, instead of a repetition of notes, tests and lectures? Do you ever find yourself wanting to get out of your hometown and see the world for a change? The study abroad program offers an alternative to traditional classroom learning.
"I've met students who have barely even traveled outside of Georgia, or have never flown on a plane,' said Erica Simpson, instructor of communications and study abroad coordinator.
Simpson, a travel enthusiast, said that major international companies are expanding their businesses locally, and that these employers are looking for "global" people who can appreciate and accept foreign culture.
Jessica Lawrence, treasurer of the GHC Students Without Borders club, said that a study abroad trip "really helps you appreciate cultural diversity. There's nothing like it."
The study abroad program has undergone some very positive major changes, according to Simpson.
In previous years, students have had to apply to go on a study abroad trip through the University System of Georgia, and compete with other students for the opportunity to travel. Students were on their own when it came to funding their trip.
However, this year, the study abroad program has been revamped. There is no competition, and Students Without Borders is helping students fund trips through fundraisers and finding scholarship and grant opportunities.
The college is offering is a 15 day tour of Germany, France, Italy and Switzerland for $2,500. Econ 2105 or Comm 1100 credit is offered in connection with this May trip.
Also offered is a June tour of historic Ireland for Arts 1113 or Phil 1000. The cost for this trip is $2,125. A physical education credit is available for students� participating in another June trip to the Bahamas. The Bahamas opportunity will include scuba diving and studying in the sunshine instead of fluorescent lighting.
"I think everyone should have the privilege to travel to a foreign country at sometime in their life, so why not do it during your college career while receiving credit?" said Cassie Taylor, Students Without Borders secretary.
"If you are interested in taking a study abroad course in the spring I strongly encourage you to sign up," said Paul Province, president of Students Without Borders. "The trips can be somewhat expensive, but our fundraisers are definitely going to take a chunk out of the cost," said Province.
"Studying abroad helps you learn about other types of people. It changes your way of thinking and opens your mind," Simpson said. Students Without Borders will meet on Oct. 17 at 4 p.m. on the Floyd campus. For more information contact Province at [email protected].
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