Today: Mar 29, 2024

Summer Study Abroad vs. Semester-Long Study Abroad

Jessica Pellegrino General Assignment Reporter 

Though most students are aware of Southern’s study abroad options during the semester, not many students are aware that Southern offers study abroad trips in the summer months. Whether you want to dance in Spain, trail blaze in Iceland, or enjoy a Paris night, there is a summer study abroad option for just about anyone. Studying abroad in the summer is an option that is often overlooked for students interested in traveling.

Katelyn Hill, junior, studied abroad in Paris this summer and shared some of her experiences. She says, “I studied in Paris, France for one month, which was the perfect amount of time. I had a Professor who knew Paris very well so I felt well guided. July was the perfect month to study abroad because in the summer, there are always activities and festivals going on while abroad. In Paris for example, July was the month to celebrate the World Cup, Bastilles Day, and Tour de France.”

For some students, the traditional semester-long study abroad programs can be too lengthy. Summer study abroad lasts about four weeks. The students complete one or two courses, which is a much lighter load than the full course schedule a student would have during a semester long study abroad. This a very appealing feature to students who want to have ample time to get emerged in the culture of their site. Hill says, “However, studying abroad in the summer tends to be expensive because there is a program fee and a tuition fee, not to mention personal money for spending, however, financial aid is available if you take two classes.” Studying abroad during the semester is often less financially burdening because financial aid that the student would have used for housing and meal plans can be applied to study abroad. During the summer however, financial aid funding is less prevalent and more money must come from the student. Therefore, summer study abroad can get very expensive. Hill, however, had a very memorable time in Paris. She adds, “I would have liked to stay longer than a month because I enjoyed my time so much!”

Though a shorter length of time, studying abroad in the summer can be just as life-changing an experience as a full semester. Todd Lindstrom, junior and two-time summer study abroad participant says, “Some people may find that a month is just enough for them though. I’d say before anyone chooses an option [between summer or semester long trips], they should really ask themselves what they are looking for, but always remember to try something new or get out of your comfort zone too because that’s what travel is all about. I’ve gained more perspective and learned more than I ever could have imagined on just a two week trip to Iceland.”

Lindstrom, who has studied abroad in Iceland and Spain believes that study abroad trips are what you make of them. Studying abroad in the summer allows the student to travel and gain experiences without even having to disrupt their studying and graduation date goals. Lindstrom says, “My month in Spain was amazing. I was immersed in a whole different approach to life that had a lasting impact on me. It was truly life changing in a positive way. One great aspect of studying abroad in the summer, I’d say is being able to stay connected at home and remain a part of the community in New Haven, Conn. during the school year while using the valuable time we get during summer break to explore the world.”

Photo Credit: R. Findley Photography

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