Relaunching Study Abroad Programs Amidst The Pandemic
Coming this spring, 20 Bradley University students will be studying abroad in about seven different countries.
Coming this spring, 20 Bradley University students will be studying abroad in about seven different countries. Due to the pandemic, students haven’t been able to attend these programs in a significant amount of time and BU has been working diligently to make sure they stay on track.
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Bradley University's study abroad programs are officially on schedule to be happening this spring. This is thrilling news to all, especially because COVID-19 has taken away so many of these types of opportunities for universities. Now, more than ever, students are eager to travel and advance their personal and academic growth.
Spread throughout the world, there will be 20 individuals from Bradley attending various programs. These students are traveling far and wide to make their mark on a new country.
As of right now, each of the programs is on course to remain throughout the entire semester. The Bradley University Study Abroad office is working closely with the abroad programs to stay as prepared and safe as possible when it comes to predicting potential outbreaks or quarantine protocols. There isn’t necessarily anything Bradley’s office has done differently since the abroad programs have taken the lead and pivoted plans as necessary based on that country’s specific set of guidelines. Bradley relies heavily on these organizations to facilitate COVID-19 related circumstances. For now, all they can do is stay positive and hope for the best.
A junior business student at Bradley, Amelia Smarto, is attending the program in Italy this spring. Smarto feels as though Bradley has this process under control in regard to living in Italy during the pandemic.
“They have been very clear with the safety procedures and have made the whole process very smooth.”
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There is a broad amount of classes being offered to these students. Since there is a diverse selection of individuals going to many different venues, they all take different courses and have different experiences. Some programs are major specific whereas some are more vast and are open to many different subject areas.
Smarto also shared some of the specific courses she will be taking while she is there.
“I’m taking introduction to Italian culture, consumer behavior marketing, health and wellness, entrepreneurship marketing, and travel writing.”
She hopes to gain intellectual advancement and personal growth while she studies abroad in Florence.
“I hope to increase my knowledge in my area of study while also gaining cultural enrichment and a new appreciation for other parts of the world.”
Kathy Stinson, the Administrative Coordinator for study abroad programs at Bradley University also shared some of her input in regards to the academic value that these programs hold.
“They are phenomenal. Even beyond academics and the credits that they get, our students come back and say that their experience abroad was truly life changing. It has a permanent impact on their lives.”
All in all, Bradley University seems confident and committed to making their study abroad excursions as beneficial and safe as possible for their students during the lasting pandemic. Everyone is full of anticipation to finally receive foreign education and create lasting memories and enriching experiences.