I had the pleasure of communicating via email with Alli Reed, the Global Experiences Coordinator here at SNC. I asked her about her personal experiences studying abroad, information SNC students (or anyone) should know about studying abroad and National Study Abroad Day and why we all should consider traveling or studying abroad! For more information, Alli Reed has an office located in the Center for Global Engagement on the 3rd floor of Bemis. Email: alli.reed@snc.edu
What places have you studied abroad? (If you have been to many places, what was your favorite?)
I have studied abroad several times during my academic career. Like many who study abroad, once I started, I couldn't get rid of the travel bug. As an undergraduate student, I studied abroad in Cuba and Spain. Once I graduated, I searched for a graduate school that had additional opportunities for travel, and I found a program where I was able to study in Vietnam and Italy. Now I have turned study abroad into a career! It is really hard to pick a favorite, but I think it would have to be Spain because I spent the most time studying there.
How many SNC students choose to study abroad each school year?
We have roughly 150-200 students who study abroad at SNC each year. This comes out to about 30% of our student population who study abroad at some point in their undergraduate studies. Considering that the national average for 4-year institutions is around 10%, I think this is a testament to how important study abroad and international education as a whole is to the college.
What upcoming trips are happening?
Our applications to study abroad for Fall 2023 are due March 1, and our J-term 2025 Global Seminar applications will open April 1, so stay tuned for more information on our exciting short-term study abroad opportunities. Spring 2025 applications will open on May 1.
Where can students go to learn more about studying abroad?
To learn more about our programs and start an application, students can go to snc.edu/go/globalknights. Our application portal has lots of information about our programs but also includes links to sign up for an advising appointment with me, or a peer advisor.
Why should a student study abroad?
Studying abroad is really and truly one of the most impactful things that anyone can do during their time at SNC. I often see so much growth in the students from when they start their application to when they return as more confident, mature, self-assured students ready to take on the world. Not only is the study part of study abroad remarkable, but we have programs that offer internships, research and service learning; all added opportunities that can really make your resume stand out. There are faculty, staff and other students on campus who all know the impact of studying abroad from firsthand experience, so I encourage students to not just talk to our office but talk to those around you because chances are, they have study abroad experiences to share as well. Studying abroad can also be quite affordable, and I've worked on a few scholarship committees to help students make studying abroad even more affordable and accessible. I often meet with students who are surprised to find out that studying abroad is not only possible for them, but they also have many different program options to choose from.
Any additional information people should know about studying abroad, or National Study Abroad Day?
It is important to note that we often recommend that students plan early for their study abroad experience. Applications typically open about a year in advance and are due the semester before you want to go abroad. Even though planning a year ahead is the minimum recommendation, I always tell students that coming in earlier to start planning gives them the most options and flexibility in program selection because we can discuss which programs have the degree requirements they need, and we can identify which courses you can save for your study abroad program.
Studying abroad sounds like a great opportunity for students to have access to during their time at St. Norbert College. Thank you, Alli, for all your wisdom and information. Get out there and travel!