The relevance of globalization in our society is increasing dramatically and students with a desire for more direct international exposure can benefit from the opportunities available at Baruch College through the Study Abroad Program. The program, under the direction of Dr. Richard Mitten is located in Baruch’s Weissman Center for International Business.
Dr. Mitten notes that there has been impressive growth in the program over the last ten years and proudly states that Baruch College has the highest number of participating students of any college within the CUNY system.
There are 14 exchange locations ranging from China, India, Korea and Thailand to the Dominican Republic, England, Spain and Sweden. Programs range from short-term January intercession to a full academic year and are open to both undergraduate and graduate students within Weissman, Zicklin and School of Public Affairs.
Below are three students sharing their perceptions about the study abroad opportunity and the impact of this experience on their personal and professional development. Click on each picture to get their stories.
Allison Siminovsky is currently a second semester senior at Baruch who traveled abroad during the spring of her junior year. She is an industrial/organizational psychology major and a political science minor. This fall she will begin doctoral studies at the University of Georgia and plans a career in research and academia.
Allison studied at the University of Edinburgh in the UK from January through December 2009. She chose this University because it is research focused and would provide her with the necessary preparation for her upcoming doctoral studies this fall. Also, friends and acquaintances who vacationed in Edinburgh, loved the city, and provided positive feedback that supported her selection.
The reception she received at the University of Edinburgh was filled with warmth and acceptance as this institution maintains a large population of international students guided by a team of student advisors. Allison completed remaining academic requirements for Baruch during the first semester, and concentrated on educational requirements in psychology during her second semester. She described the academic program at this University as challenging with more intense focus given to major areas of study.
Allison enjoyed her year abroad and described Edinburgh as a magical city that maintained its medieval origins while becoming cosmopolitan. She acclimated quickly by adapting to cultural norms and establishing a network of friends and associates who assisted in the transition process. She acknowledges the international experience has made her more independent, confident and comfortable with risks; which are necessary to achieve success and deal with life challenges.
When asked about her impressions of the study abroad program Allison stated “the program gave me the opportunity to travel extensively throughout Europe, study and complete research in a unique environment and essentially start a new life in a new country. I will be eternally grateful to the study abroad program for giving me the chance to live what was truly a dream.”
Jacqueline (Jackie) Gleason is currently an executive for a private equity company and is a second year graduate student pursuing an Accelerated Part-Time MBA in Information Systems and Operations Management.
Jackie studied at Jean Moulin University in Lyon, France during the winter session in January 2010 in a 2 week, accelerated program that she found stimulating, productive and enjoyable. Her assessment of the exchange location and program structure was that it offered the perfect blend of course content and cultural learning that resulted in an inspiring and unforgettable experience.
Jackie complements Dr. Mitten for developing and executing a well planned study abroad program that allowed her and a 15 member travel team the opportunity to become international students and fully embrace the experience. Jean Moulin University provided exposure to professors from around the world in a challenging educational environment that enhanced her personal and professional development. Exposure, however, extended beyond the class room to incorporate a breadth of French culture that included trips to museums, vineyards and tours to ancient towns. In addition, she discovered that the people of Lyon have a serious appreciation for food and wine.
Jacqueline acknowledged this was one of her goals that far exceeded her expectations and re-affirmed her future career objective which is to ultimately work abroad. When I asked what her impressions of the study abroad program were, she stated this was a rich and valuable experience that served to reinforce her career path. Also, it allowed her to recognize the flexibility and adaptability she brings to new challenges in life. “The program was incredible and Dr. Mitten deserves a medal for the program he put together.”
Oriana So is currently in her junior year in the Macaulay Honors Program majoring in international marketing. She plans to study abroad for two semesters during her senior year and will extend graduation one semester from June to December 2011.
The exchange location she selected is San Juan, Puerto Rico because she wants to learn Spanish and was offered a part-time position working with a non-profit organization where she hopes to continue after graduation. Also, she has friends and associates in Puerto Rico and familiarity with culture norms that should allow for a smooth transition.
She is looking forward to participating in the Study Abroad Program and will attend the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras campus where she will fully immerse herself in international marketing and Spanish language courses. There will be language barriers to overcome so she will begin preparation for the trip by taking intensive Spanish language courses this summer.
Oriana travels extensively and has learned how to adjust quickly to any new environment. Her prior international travel includes trips to Turkey, China and Malaysia, with many more on the horizon undoubtedly!
Possible future career endeavors include landing a position with AIESEC International based in Rotterdam, Netherlands, working in the non-profit sector or launching her own not-for-profit company. When I asked, would you recommend others participate in the Study Abroad Program she responded “yes, I believe studying abroad is an integral part of a college experience. At this time, it’s important to get global experience and students should be participating in some form of global exchange, study or internship abroad.”
** The opportunity to live and study in another country can have a positive impact on personal and intellectual growth, broaden students’ perspective on world affairs and provide career enhancement and development. As students acquire in-depth knowledge of another culture, custom, people and language, the result of these combined experiences can change a student’s life and create a more rewarding career path.
The Baruch Study Abroad web site provides thorough information about the program.
http://zicklin.baruch.cuny.edu/centers/weissman/study-abroad/letter.htm
Dr. Mitten and his professional staff are ready to assist anyone wishing to pursue this wonderful opportunity