{"id":525,"date":"2020-11-17T20:14:54","date_gmt":"2020-11-17T20:14:54","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/?page_id=525"},"modified":"2026-02-10T20:48:18","modified_gmt":"2026-02-10T20:48:18","slug":"why-study-abroad","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/why-study-abroad\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Study Abroad?"},"content":{"rendered":"<!-- Inserted by Dropdownizer plugin. Forces video embeds contained in dropdowns to have a size --><style>.dropdownizer__dropdown iframe { width: 100% !important; height: 100% !important; }<\/style>\n<div class=\"w-md-50p card shadow-sm card--smallHighlight outdent-16rem place-right in-story\"><div class=\"card-image-container\"><div style=\" \" id=\"media-id--60166\">\n  \n  \n            <div class=\"field field--name-field-media-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item\">  <img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2025\/07\/global-badge.jpg\" width=\"838\" height=\"692\" alt=\"A burgundy design with the words &quot;The Vassar Institute: The Global Collaborative for the Liberal Arts&quot; in white, superimposed over a photo of a desktop globe.\">\n\n<\/div>\n      \n<\/div>\n<\/div><div class=\"card-body\"><p class=\"card-text fs-6\">The Global Collaborative for the Liberal Arts seeks to build capacity for institutions of higher education as they integrate liberal arts content and pedagogy into their degree programs. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vassar.edu\/global-collaborative\" data-entity-type=\"node\" data-entity-uuid=\"a14b693c-0ee4-4445-b965-697d109afd74\" data-entity-substitution=\"canonical\" title=\"The Global Collaborative for the Liberal Arts\"><strong>Read more&nbsp;\u2192<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<style>\n.my-3 {\n    margin-top: 1.5rem !important;\n    margin-bottom: 1.5rem !important;\n}\n.card {\n    position: relative;\n    display: -webkit-box;\n    display: -webkit-flex;\n    display: -ms-flexbox;\n    display: flex;\n    -webkit-box-orient: vertical;\n    -webkit-box-direction: normal;\n    -webkit-flex-direction: column;\n    -ms-flex-direction: column;\n    flex-direction: column;\n    min-width: 0;\n    word-wrap: break-word;\n    background-color: #fffffe;\n    -webkit-background-clip: border-box;\n    background-clip: border-box;\n    border: 1px solid rgba(0, 0, 1, 0.125);\n    border-radius: 0.25rem;\n}\n.shadow-sm {\n    -webkit-box-shadow: 0 0.125rem 0.25rem rgba(0, 0, 1, 0.075) !important;\n    box-shadow: 0 0.125rem 0.25rem rgba(0, 0, 1, 0.075) !important;\n}\n.card-body {\n    -webkit-box-flex: 1;\n    -webkit-flex: 1 1 auto;\n    -ms-flex: 1 1 auto;\n    flex: 1 1 auto;\n    padding: 1.5rem 1.5rem;\n}\n.card-body p {\n    line-height: 1.3;\n}\n.card-text:last-child {\n    margin-bottom: 0;\n}\n.fs-6 {\n    font-size: 1.1rem !important;\n}\n.w-md-50p {\nmargin-bottom: 1.4rem;\n}\n@media (min-width: 50rem) {\n.w-md-50p {\n    float: right;\n    width: 36%;\nmargin-left: 1.4rem;\n}\n}\n<\/style>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Benefits of Studying Abroad<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Integrating a study abroad experience into your time at Vassar will reap many rewards.&nbsp;The unique opportunity to learn and live abroad will offer access to new classes, the opportunity to gain a new perspective in your field of study, and the chance to develop or master language skills.&nbsp;Students who have returned from abroad report improved self-confidence, problem-solving skills, a worldly outlook, and increased cultural competence. Such growth is personally rewarding and can also be valuable to future employers and graduate schools.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t have the funds to go abroad?&nbsp;Perhaps you think you cannot afford to miss your science labs or miss a season with your sports team?&nbsp;Think no further!&nbsp;There are many ways to make a study abroad experience happen.&nbsp;Watch this short video,&nbsp;<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=tgXmCDLQLU4\" target=\"_blank\">10 Myths About Study Abroad<\/a>, to find out more.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Have more questions?  For ways to connect with us or a specific member of the OIP team, please visit our <a href=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/contact\/\">Contact<\/a> page.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Featured Programs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Here we\u2019d like to highlight the Vassar-administered programs.&nbsp;If one of them is a good fit for your learning goals, they offer an excellent opportunity to study abroad and get immersed in a new environment while also maintaining a Vassar cohort and guidance from Vassar faculty. Click on each program to see more information!<\/p>\n\n\n<details class=\"dropdownizer__dropdown\"><summary>\nVassar Wesleyan Program in Paris\n<\/summary>\n<p>The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/en.vwpp.org\/\">Vassar-Wesleyan Program in Paris (VWPP)<\/a>&nbsp;is located in Reid Hall in the Montparnasse neighborhood. It is based on a comprehensive or whole-life approach to study abroad, and has three goals. It seeks, first, to bring students\u2019 command of the French language as close as possible to fluency. It also permits students to study all aspects of French civilization\u2014politics, art, literature, cinema, history\u2014while simultaneously making regular progress towards the completion of their majors. Finally, the program brings students into direct contact with French and European life over an extended period, heightening their awareness and understanding of French society and thought, as well as increasing their understanding of the United States in relation to other countries and cultures. These goals are accomplished by taking courses at Parisian universities, enrolling in Reid Hall seminars, living with local French-speaking hosts, and participating in various cultural activities, volunteer opportunities, and internships.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n<details class=\"dropdownizer__dropdown\"><summary>\nVassar Wesleyan Program in Madrid\n<\/summary>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/vwmadrid.org\/\">Vassar-Wesleyan in Madrid<\/a>&nbsp;offers students the opportunity to advance their education in Spanish universities through a cross-cultural immersion experience. The distinctive emphasis on courses with Spaniards (\u201cdirect enrollment\u201d at Universidad Carlos III and Universidad Complutense in Madrid), on-site learning through program excursions, collaboration with Spanish undergraduate monitores, and homestays in central Madrid accelerates language learning, promotes a deeper understanding of Spanish-language and European cultures, and integrates students into Spanish life. The program enables students to explore Spanish university, family, and cultural life from the inside, with generous program subsidies and pointers for cultural activities (theater, music, dance, exhibitions, sports, etc.) and as much or as little structure as students need.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n<details class=\"dropdownizer__dropdown\"><summary>\nEastern College Consortium (E.C.Co.) program in Bologna\n<\/summary>\n<p>The academically rigorous&nbsp;<a href=\"http:\/\/www.eccoprogram.it\/?option=com_frontpage&amp;itemid=1\">Eastern College Consortium (E.C.Co.) program<\/a>&nbsp;allows students to develop their knowledge of Italian language and culture while exploring the beautiful city of Bologna. Students choose from a wide range of courses in all disciplines at the Universit\u00e0 di Bologna\u2014the oldest university in Europe\u2014in addition to a selection of humanities and social science courses in Italian studies arranged by E.C.Co. An extensive program of cultural events, volunteer activities, and short internships is designed to use local resources and thereby enhance students\u2019 experiences in the community. And of all American students studying in Bologna, only E.C.Co. students have the privilege of living in the University of Bologna\u2019s own \u201cstudentati\u201d (dormitories)!<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n<details class=\"dropdownizer__dropdown\"><summary>\nClifden Irish Teaching Internship Program\n<\/summary>\n<p>Vassar College, in cooperation with the&nbsp;<a href=\"\/international-programs\/study-abroad-programs\/vassar\/clifden\/\">Clifden Community School<\/a>, offers a one-semester internship in Irish elementary or secondary education. Students interested in teacher certification, the theoretical study of education, or the study of cross-cultural education are assigned as interns in the elementary or secondary school in Clifden, Ireland.&nbsp;Students teach in the Clifden schools from Monday through Thursday and attend tutorials with the program Co-Director on Fridays.&nbsp;Vassar students will propose a general area of academic study for the tutorials which intersects with Irish History and Culture.&nbsp;Those interested in applying should consult with their major adviser and the Department of Education before submitting a formal application to the Office of International Programs.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n<details class=\"dropdownizer__dropdown\"><summary>\nVassar London Media and Culture Program\n<\/summary>\n<p>The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/globallearning.vassar.edu\/index.cfm?FuseAction=Programs.ViewProgramAngular&amp;id=18073\">Vassar London Program<\/a>&nbsp;balances immersion in a great global city with the security a small program and resident Faculty Director can provide: a sense of community, a source of personal as well as pedagogical support. Students enroll in two courses at Goldsmiths College, University of London, in addition to a seminar taught by the Vassar Faculty Director and an independent project which both incorporate the vibrant culture of London. Students live in the Goldsmiths dormitories and have access to all the benefits of other Goldsmiths students.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n<details class=\"dropdownizer__dropdown\"><summary>\nBerlin Consortium for German Studies\n<\/summary>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"The Berlin Consortium for German Studies (BCGS)\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/DoZGKILvfAY?feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n<p>Spend the spring semester, or better yet, the academic year&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/global.undergrad.columbia.edu\/program\/bcgs\">studying at one of Berlin's top universities, the Freie Universit\u00e4t (FU)<\/a>. Students can explore their academic interests by choosing from a broad range of university courses while solidifying their German skills. The program arranges a variety of exciting excursions and study trips, to help students engage with the vibrant cultural life of Berlin. Additionally, students can choose to participate in an internship or volunteer activity, in order to increase their immersion into the German culture.<\/p>\n<\/details>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Student Testimonials<\/h2>\n\n\n<details class=\"dropdownizer__dropdown\"><summary>\nWhy Study Abroad\n<\/summary>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"Why Study Abroad?\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/459510292?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/details>\n\n<details class=\"dropdownizer__dropdown\"><summary>\nFavorite Courses\n<\/summary>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"What Was Your Favorite Course Abroad?\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/459510574?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/details>\n\n<details class=\"dropdownizer__dropdown\"><summary>\nChallenges in Studying Abroad\n<\/summary>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"What was a Challenge while Studying Abroad?\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/459497571?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/details>\n\n<details class=\"dropdownizer__dropdown\"><summary>\nHighlights of Studying Abroad\n<\/summary>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-vimeo wp-block-embed-vimeo wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"What were the Highlights of Studying Abroad?\" src=\"https:\/\/player.vimeo.com\/video\/459510764?dnt=1&amp;app_id=122963\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"autoplay; fullscreen; picture-in-picture; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\"><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n<\/details>\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Alum Testimonials<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns cols-3 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-jessica-lum.jpg\" alt=\"Jessica Sai Lum \u201913 wearing a white shirt and has short dark hair.\" class=\"wp-image-534\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-jessica-lum.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-jessica-lum-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Jessica Sai Lum \u201913<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Double major, Asian Studies and Psychology<\/em><br><em>Program Manager, Executive Education Online, Graduate School of Business<\/em><br><em>CIEE Tokyo, Boston University Internship Program in London<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI learned firsthand from my own study abroad experience that when people are supported and given a chance to explore unfamiliar environments and engage with the communities that live there, this produces incredible opportunities to, not only develop their sense of agency and global citizenship, but to become empowered and inspired to produce reciprocal impact.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/studnet-daniel-davies.jpg\" alt=\"Daniel Davies \u201911 wearing a salmon colored shirt and scarf around neck.\" class=\"wp-image-536\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/studnet-daniel-davies.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/studnet-daniel-davies-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Daniel Davies \u201911<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Political Science major, Correlate in Philosophy<\/em><br><em>DIS Copenhagen, Denmark<\/em><br><em>Programme Officer, Asia Pacific Refugee Rights Network<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWhile studying abroad, I got to meet with a prosecutor from the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia. It was the first time I\u2019d spoken with an international lawyer about their work, and it opened my eyes to ways in which I could put my interest in international politics to use. Since graduating from law school, I've lived in the Netherlands, Egypt, Tanzania, the UK, and now Thailand.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-brianna-reed.jpg\" alt=\"Brianna Reed \u201916 wearing a white short sleeve shirt and has light medium length hair with a tree in the background.\" class=\"wp-image-535\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-brianna-reed.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-brianna-reed-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Brianna Reed \u201916<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Psychology and French double major<\/em><br><em>Vassar Wesleyan Program in Paris<\/em><br><em>Investigator at Levy Firestone Muse LLP<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cStudying in Paris allowed me to grow comfortable enough with the language to the point where I stopped questioning every French word and utterance that came out of my mouth. This not only led to a significant confidence boost in my ability to flow between American and French cultures, but also made me much more curious as to how the language played into cultures that were not only centered in and about France. Ultimately, that confidence led me to pursue work in the professional field where I could use the language to interact with colleagues and complete projects largely in French.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns cols-3 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/studnet-anish-kanoria.jpg\" alt=\"Anish Kanoria \u201918 wearing a white collared shirt.\" class=\"wp-image-554\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/studnet-anish-kanoria.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/studnet-anish-kanoria-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Anish Kanoria \u201918<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Economics and Political Science<\/em><br><em>SOAS, London<\/em><br><em>Associate at Hanuman Agro Industries Ltd.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy study abroad was one of the best experiences of my college life. It gave me the chance to take classes Vassar doesn\u2019t offer, make friends from all over the world, and live in (and explore) an entirely different setting for a semester. All of these combined, really gave me perspective...something I cherish to this day.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-vivan-duygu-parlak.jpg\" alt=\"Vivian Parlak \u201914 wearing a white shirt and black jacket and has long light hair.\" class=\"wp-image-551\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-vivan-duygu-parlak.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-vivan-duygu-parlak-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Vivian Parlak \u201914<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Economics Italian double major: French correlate sequence<\/em><br><em>Paris Vassar-Wesleyan Program<\/em><br><em>Bologna E.C.CO<\/em><br><em>Strategy and Marketing Professional<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cJYA was certainly one of the highlights of my undergraduate years. Studying abroad was an exceptional opportunity to boost my language skills but, more importantly, it allowed me to gain a deeper appreciation for foreign cultures by making meaningful connections with people around the globe. My experience inspired me to get an advanced degree in international studies and launch my career in an international organization.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-leyao-shen.jpg\" alt=\"Leyao Shen \u201916 wearing a light colored shirt with short dark hair and eyeglasses.\" class=\"wp-image-555\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-leyao-shen.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-leyao-shen-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Leyao Shen \u201916<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Biology major<\/em><br><em>DIS Copenhagen<\/em><br><em>PhD candidate, Cell Biology Duke University<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cDuring my study abroad in Denmark through DIS, I was given the opportunity to do research with an ophthalmologist on the pathological development of age-related macular degeneration. That experience triggered my interest and passion for scientific research. I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in cell biology.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns cols-3 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-jamie-stevenson.jpg\" alt=\"Jamie Stevenson \u201910 wearing a black jacket and has long light colored hair.\" class=\"wp-image-556\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-jamie-stevenson.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-jamie-stevenson-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Jamie Stevenson \u201910<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>International Studies<\/em><br><em>SIT Cameroon<\/em><br><em>Lady Margaret Hall, Oxford University<\/em><br><em>Energy Analyst\/Consultant, Lyon, France<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI split my junior year abroad between the SIT Cameroon \u2018Development and Social Change\u2019 programme and a semester at Oxford. Both experiences were really formative, but my semester in Cameroon, in particular, helped lay the foundations for what I do now - I\u2019ve spent the last ten years living and working in French, and my career has been focused on energy infrastructure and policy planning, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa. I still try to apply the things I learned with SIT in Cameroon to my projects today.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/studnet-kyle-chea-fuqua.jpg\" alt=\"Kyle Chea \u201910 wearing a black jacket, white shirt and tie.\" class=\"wp-image-557\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/studnet-kyle-chea-fuqua.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/studnet-kyle-chea-fuqua-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Kyle Chea \u201910<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>History major<\/em><br><em>University of Bristol<\/em><br><em>MBA (Duke University - Fuqua<\/em><br><em>Associate, BNP Paribas CIB Consulting (New York, NY), School of Business)<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy study abroad experience at the University of Bristol can best be summed up in one word: \u2018challenge.\u2019 Through my study abroad experience, I learned that hard work and humor go a long way in building lasting, life-changing relationships and that saying \u2018yes\u2019 to a challenge shows us we can achieve far more than we ever thought possible.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-alex-gros.jpg\" alt=\"Alex Gros \u201914 wearing a white and blue striped shirt, has short brown hair with beard and mustache.\" class=\"wp-image-552\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-alex-gros.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-alex-gros-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Alex Gros \u201914<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>International Studies major, Correlate in Hispanic Studies<\/em><br><em>Vassar Wesleyan Program in Madrid<\/em><br><em>Master of Public Administration Candidate, The London School of Economics and Political Science<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cBeing immersed in a foreign culture not only broadened my horizons and fostered self-awareness, but also improved my foreign language skills, cultural competency, and ability to communicate cross-culturally. As a master\u2019s candidate at the London School of Economics and Political Science, I use these skills every day while collaborating on research, presentations, and more with classmates and coworkers from around the world.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns cols-3 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-max-kutner.jpg\" alt=\"Max Kutner \u201911 wearing a blue jacket, light pink shirt and pink tie.\" class=\"wp-image-558\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-max-kutner.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-max-kutner-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Max Kutner \u201911<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Film Major<\/em><br><em>Vassar Wesleyan Program in Paris<\/em><br><em>Journalist<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cStudying in Paris expanded my worldview, which became essential as I pursued a career in journalism. The experience has been a conversation starter in job interviews, and I even moved back to Paris after college.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-kweku-attafuah-wadee.jpg\" alt=\"Kweku Attahfuah-Wadee \u201913 wearing a light patterned shirt.\" class=\"wp-image-559\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-kweku-attafuah-wadee.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-kweku-attafuah-wadee-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Kweku Attahfuah-Wadee \u201913<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Environmental Studies<\/em><br><em>University of Perth, DIS Copenhagen<\/em><br><em>Project Officer, Sanitation Green Advocacy Ghana<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cStudy Abroad gave me the chance to broaden my intellectual interests beyond my original academic focus \u2013 energy policy and sustainability \u2013 by taking classes in Mandarin and conducting historical research on natural disasters in South East Asia. These experiences, coupled with the lifelong friends I made along away, greatly benefited my personal and professional life.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-jeremy-arthur.jpg\" alt=\"Jeremy Arthur \u201910 wearing a black jacket, white shirt and tie and has short dark hair.\" class=\"wp-image-553\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-jeremy-arthur.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-jeremy-arthur-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Jeremy Arthur \u201910<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Psychology, Political Science<\/em><br><em>University College London<\/em><br><em>Political Researcher and Special Assistant to the UAE Ambassador to the UN<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI had always been enthusiastic about public policy and governance. Prior to my study abroad experience in the UK, my focus had been primarily on US government. My time in the UK provided an opportunity to more closely examine other governments, both in structure and delivery of services. This significantly broadened my scope of interest, which inspired me to work abroad after Vassar and ultimately find my way to the United Nations.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns cols-3 is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"200\" height=\"200\" src=\"http:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-sebastian-herrador-guzman.jpg\" alt=\"Sebastian Herrador Guzman \u201914 wearing a black jacket, white shirt and red tie.\" class=\"wp-image-560\" srcset=\"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-sebastian-herrador-guzman.jpg 200w, https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/46\/2020\/11\/student-sebastian-herrador-guzman-150x150.jpg 150w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><strong>Sebastian Herrador-Guzman \u201914<\/strong><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><em>Economics; Math, French correlate sequence<\/em><br><em>Internships in Francophone Europe, Paris<\/em><br><em>Economist\/Consultant Deloitte Canada<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMy study abroad experience allowed me to sharpen my French to become fully conversational. Today this is helping me pursue consulting engagements with top business clients in francophone Canada which has opened many professional opportunities since I have been able to leverage my linguistic qualifications to distinguish my profile when submitting proposals to do business from global clients.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Global Collaborative for the Liberal Arts seeks to build capacity for institutions of higher education as they integrate liberal arts content and pedagogy into their degree programs. Read more&nbsp;\u2192. Benefits of Studying Abroad Integrating a study abroad experience into your time at Vassar will reap many rewards.&nbsp;The unique opportunity to learn and live abroad [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":1629,"parent":0,"menu_order":1,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-525","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/525","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=525"}],"version-history":[{"count":89,"href":"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/525\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2318,"href":"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/525\/revisions\/2318"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1629"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/offices.vassar.edu\/international-programs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=525"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}