Terms Abroad & Away FAQs
Can you describe Union’s term abroad program?
Union’s international study and project-based programs are central to our mission of educating engaged, ethical contributors to a global society. We focus on creating innovative opportunities, some of which combine elements of entrepreneurship, research or community service with the chance for students to pursue their academic interests and individual passions. More than 60 percent of all Union students have an abroad or “away” experience during their time at the College, usually, but not always, during their junior or sophomore years. Most consider it a highlight of their Union education.
Where do Union students study?
Union sponsors terms abroad and international exchanges in Australia, Barbados, Belgium, Bermuda, Brazil, China, the Czech Republic, England, Fiji, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Romania, Spain, Tasmania and Vietnam. We design our own programs, and most are led by Union faculty. Each program exposes students to a country’s language and culture, art, politics, architecture, history and economics. There are also specialized terms in Marine Studies and National Health Systems (Canada, Holland and London) and a research-based spring term in Palermo, Italy, for science and engineering students. There are formal exchange programs in 11 countries and Partnership for Global Education Programs on four continents. All of these programs are for one term, and students receive full course credit. Often, these study abroad programs give students the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the host community. In Fiji, for example, Union students are assigned to local enterprises in need of creative solutions to their business challenges. Students hone their entrepreneurial skills, provide valuable expertise to businesses and grow to appreciate firsthand the important role that culture plays in driving business performance.
What are mini-terms?
Students who wish to pursue a study abroad/study away opportunity during their winter break have the option of doing a three-week mini-term. Mini-terms are offered in Argentina, Egypt, France, India, Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa and Thailand as well as in New Orleans, where Union students have been involved in relief efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Each of these trips offers one course credit.
Are there opportunities for independent study abroad?
Yes. Students may work with a faculty advisor to design their own program of international study in the country of their own choice. Those who have taken advantage of this option include an economics/arts major who traveled to India to learn more about the Indian economy and pursue his love of photography; two students working in an AIDS hospice in South Africa; and a student who is studying Chinese medicine in Beijing. Union recently founded a chapter of the international Engineers Without Borders, a unique work abroad program that strives to improve the quality of life in disadvantaged communities worldwide through education and sustainable engineering. In Union’s first EWB project, students are helping develop a clean water source for the Ethiopian community of Boru. In addition, the International Virtual Design Studio in Turkey partners engineering students from Union with students at the Middle East Technical University in Ankara to boost appreciation of engineering as a global enterprise.