Introduction to Study Abroad at Plymouth State University
Every day the advisors in The Bagley Center are delighted to surprise students with information about study abroad at Plymouth State. As a student at PSU, the options are endless on where you can go. See "Where Can I Study?" for further information.
Here are some things that might surprise you about studying abroad:
- It’s affordable! We have so many programs in destinations around the world that we are sure you will be able to find a program that meets your budget. Plus, in addition to scholarships here at Plymouth, many of our study abroad partners offer scholarships as well. When you study abroad on a PSU approved program, your financial aid will travel with you. So if finances are a concern, you may be surprised that you can afford study abroad.
- You don’t need a foreign language! While we have many programs in non-English speaking countries, courses are taught in English. Many of these programs ask that you enroll simultaneously in a conversational language course to learn enough of your host country’s tongue to make life easier – and safer! Speaking the language of the country you are visiting – even only a little – is a huge enhancement of your study away experience. Of course, if you have been studying another language, spending a semester abroad can be one of the best ways to increase your fluency. And, some programs do offer an opportunity to take classes in the native language.
- You don’t need to wait until you are a Junior! While some programs may have a requirement that you be enrolled in a certain year of college to apply, most do not. In fact, you may have already heard about Plymouth’s very special program for first semester semester freshmen in Ireland. So, for the most part, you can elect to study abroad any time that works best for you and your PSU curriculum.
- There are no surprises with your course work! Before you leave Plymouth we will work with you to determine what courses you will take while abroad and you will know how they will transfer into your degree program. And, if once you arrive at your new University abroad, a class you selected is cancelled or you need a substitution, we can take care of that as well. All you have to do is contact your study abroad advisor. Your credits will transfer back, but your grades will not. You just need to make sure you get a ‘C’ or better!
Here are a couple of things to keep in mind if you’re serious about studying abroad:
- Begin your planning early. You have many options to consider and each program has its own distinctive features. It can be a challenge to compare programs because they are all so different. We’ll help but you need to spend some time on finding the program that’s right for you.
- Read about the place you are going – not just guide books but histories and fiction from that country. Check out some videos produced there. Do whatever it takes to build an appreciation and understanding for your new temporary home. You’ll be more comfortable and make friends faster.
- Do well in your studies at Plymouth State. You need at least a GPA of 2.5 to study abroad. However, many programs require at least a 2.7 and some have even higher GPA requirements. Generally, these GPA requirements are firm – NO EXCEPTIONS. What a disappointment to find you can’t go because you missed the GPA cutoff by a tenth of a point.
- Be honest with yourself. Studying abroad means lots of independent decision-making and problem solving – everything from reading maps to cooking for yourself. Most students go alone and learn how rewarding it can be to get out there and make new friends and visit new places. But you are on your own and you should be the kind of person who’s okay with that. It’s not a good sign if your Mom or Dad calls The Bagley Center to ask about study abroad and how it works. You are the one going and you are the one we want to work with.
