Every year, more than half of the junior class at Middlebury College studies abroad in more than 40 countries at more than 90 different programs and universities, and for many this international experience is an integral part of their liberal arts education. For some it enhances their studies of a language, for others it is their first time living in a country other than the one they were born in. Every student takes away something unique from their time abroad, as every experience is vastly different.
The history department wants to take the time to look into where our majors have been traveling to, and what their experiences have been in order to give students an idea of the wide array of opportunities at their fingertips should they be interested in studying abroad. As I begin to investigate this further, I will first touch on my experience abroad at the London School of Economics for the academic year (2018-2019) and include some information about choices you’d have to make regarding studying abroad.
Deciding between a Middlebury School Abroad and an Externally Sponsored Program
In my experience studying abroad in an externally sponsored program, I found that I was better able to integrate fully into the school and the city I was living in, and step outside my box as a Middlebury College student. At LSE for example, exchange students enroll directly in the university, and take classes, exams, participate in social events, clubs, sports, etc, as a regular student there would for the entire year.
However, Middlebury schools abroad also have some advantages in that getting credit for your courses may be an easier process, and you’d be studying under a more familiar structure. You have to carefully weigh the pros and cons of both when making your decision.
A semester or a year?
The General Course at LSE only allowed students to study there for a year, thus a semester abroad was not an option. However, I was glad to have made that choice, as when the first semester was nearing its end, I found myself grateful to have another one ahead of me. It gave me a lot more time to fully immerse myself in a new city and more breaks to see the rest of the continent. (Even the LSE study abroad dean jokes that exchange students think LSE stands for “let’s see Europe.”)
Three months away from Middlebury may sound like a long time, but time really does fly by. Depending on your interests, major requirements, and other factors, you may prefer a semester abroad over a year, or vice versa. Carefully consider these options when making your decision!
Fulfilling requirements for your major
One of the benefits of studying abroad as a history major is that a lot of the requirements can be fulfilled by a wide range of classes, thus you don’t have to worry as much about getting all the requirements done on time. Many courses from universities abroad are already on lists of pre-approved classes, but if you think the syllabus or description of a class suggests it can fulfill a credit you need, speak with you advisor and the Chair to discuss this. Try to take advantage of courses on subjects that our department perhaps does not offer, as this is a unique opportunity to study something new!
As the fall semester starts to draw to a close in a few weeks, deadlines for these programs are quickly approaching! There are some informational sessions coming up soon, you can find the calendar here. You can find information about Middlebury schools abroad here, and potential externally sponsored programs here. Happy travels!