Studying Abroad

A pinnacle of your undergraduate experience so be prepared!

Organized by Joel Miller '20

Study Abroad Requirements

• Department Requirements:
  • CEAS and COL require study Abroad
  • CSS strongly encourages study abroad
  • View all departmental regulations on the Study Abroad website
• Language Requirements:
  • Generally, if Wesleyan offers the language spoken in the country in which you wish to study abroad, you must have completed some coursework in that language before departing/applying
  • View the Foreign Language Policy on the Study Abroad website

Study Abroad Tips

Preparing

• Preparing
  • If you think you may want to go abroad, start planning in your first semester!
  • To study abroad in non-English-speaking countries whose language is taught at Wesleyan, students are required to reach a certain level in that language before going abroad
    • For more information, see the Office of Study Abroad (OSA) website, and associated links
  • Keep an eye out for due dates from both OSA and the programs you are interested in exploring!

While abroad

• You’re still in school! Your learning experience may be very different abroad, but the academic skills that you’ve developed at Wes will still be very applicable while you are away
• Peer advisors are available to abroad students
  • The APAs can call, skype, and email you should you need assistance
  • Time management is especially important abroad- getting help early on to establish a plan can ensure a successful semester
• Major and Faculty advisors are still YOUR advisors while abroad
  • Email them to keep them updated!
  • Classes must be approved by your advisors for the semester you return
• Be sure to check your email regularly! There are important announcement that you still need to be aware of (ie. University policy changes, ResLife announcements, and more)
  • Keep in mind time changes with university deadlines
  • If internet access will be in issue get in contact with the department prior to the deadline

Adjusting back

• Reverse culture shock exists
  • Create a plan for returning to American daily life
• Wesleyan might feel overwhelming socially, academically and culturally so reach out to get the support you need
  • Class deans, CAPS, Office of Religious and Spiritual Life, peer advisors, faculty advisors, study abroad office
  • View a full list of student academic resources
• Talk about struggles you are facing with peers and other abroad students! More than likely you are not alone in the transition back. Get help early on to maximize success