If you’ve dreamed of studying abroad, Sinclair now offers the chance to go to some of your favorite countries, while earning college credit. International Education is a new department on campus that helps students who are either ready to study abroad or just thinking about it, and can give them a chance to explore their options and make it possible.
From engineering, to nursing, to art, “There are opportunities for all majors,” said Deborah Gavlik, Director of International Education at Sinclair. By studying abroad, students can learn lessons that will be beneficial in any occupation.
“Studying abroad may be one of the most important and meaningful experiences you can have as a community college student,” according to the Department’s website. It encourages students to let go of their prejudices and open themselves to new experiences and people.
Studying abroad can also be a great resume-booster. Many employers appreciate the global competency skills, leadership skills and cultural awareness that students gain as a result.
Whether students want to study abroad for a short time or an entire semester, there are several programs available. There are short-term faculty-led programs, in which students enroll in participating classes and travel with their professor(s). These can last anywhere from a couple of days to two or three weeks.
Third party study abroad providers coordinate programs worldwide and allow students to communicate with people from other schools. These providers help students with housing, local travel, along with other necessities. Studying abroad with third party providers can last any duration.
If finances are an issue, students need to know that there may be help available. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, over 70 percent of students at public two-year colleges are on financial aid.
The International Education department is set up so that there may be help available to study abroad, even if a student is receiving financial aid. There are programs such as The Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, which is a federal program aimed at diversifying the types of students who study abroad, as well as the places they go. The scholarship helps students who may not be able to afford studying abroad. Students who are receiving or will receive a Pell Grant are eligible to apply.
For more information on studying abroad or to fill out an application, visit Deborah Gavlik in Building 10, Room 231. Students can also reach her at Deborah.Gavlik@sinclair.edu or (937)-512-3999.
Meggan Lanahan
Reporter