Transitioning from last week’s short week due to Fall Break to a full week again is proving to be a lot more difficult than imagined. With the mindset of being stress-free no longer applicable, the second round of tests are approaching. Even on top of that, people wanting to study abroad next year or this summer have applications due within the next month. I am one of those people. A study abroad fair took place in Maas two weeks ago where all of the summer programs and other opportunities were displayed. Some of my friends in the past have gone on the Vienna Summer May Term and absolutely loved it! For me, it would be the perfect excursion because it is only a month long, I wouldn’t be missing any school for it plus I would get an awesome experience that I otherwise would never be able to have. Like I said, the applications are due soon (November 25 for Vienna), which just adds another stressor to your life. Being able to balance homework and intramurals along with trying to get the application finished and in early is no easy feat. It’s easy to just put off since it isn’t due quite yet, but getting ahead on it is really beneficial.
For individuals who are unaware of this program, it takes place in either May or June (or both) depending on which one you sign up for. Some of the courses that you can take include German, Modern Austrian History, Austrian Art/Architecture, Theology and Ethics, Empires of the World and Vienna Music Traditions. Many of them would fulfill Art, IDS and History credits, which is really nice. In addition, you would be staying with a host family and get the opportunity to really live in another culture and out of your comfort zone. Even beyond that, this program allows for traveling to other areas such as Prague, Salzburg and Morbisch (for the May session).
Even if this program does not appeal to you, there are plenty more offered through various study abroad programs. Many of them do not require you to speak the language, which opens even more opportunities to travel places you thought you were restricted from because of a language barrier. Basically, this is the prime time to study abroad and if you don’t take advantage of it now, when will you have the time to later on?
If you are interested in this Vienna program, this is the link to the Hope site for further information: http://www.hope.edu/beyondhope/offcamp/vienna/
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