Education for the Mind, Heart and Soul through the College's Study Abroad program presents students with a unique educational opportunity all too often neglected in American higher education. Before the College awards you credit for studying abroad we ask you to distil your experiences in a reflective essay and to complete the attached program evaluation form [PDF]. The previous form is a pdf form and you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to read it.

We expect that you have much to say about your experiences. The essay provides you an opportunity to share them. We believe that an essential aspect of any successful study abroad experience includes reflection on such things as cultural differences, culture shock, and the value of studying abroad for one's academic program and personal growth. The essay provides an opportunity for you to think clearly and critically about your experiences abroad, to reflect on how they have broadened and deepened your knowledge of yourself, your world, and your academic discipline, and to reflect about the value of your own education.

The program evaluation form will help the College insure the quality of its international education program.

Guidelines
The essay should be typed, double spaced, with standard margins and font. There are no strict guidelines for the length of the essay, but it should be adequate to address the matters under consideration. We suggest that it be anywhere from 1,500 words to 3,000 words. The essay will not be graded, but it is required for you to receive credit for studying abroad. Attach the program evaluation form to your essay.

The Essay
Please share with us your reflections on such topics as the following:

• How has studying abroad contributed to your academic goals?
• How has studying abroad affected the way that you see yourself?
• How has studying abroad affected the way that you see the host culture?
• How has studying abroad affected the way that you see your native culture?
• How has studying abroad affected the way that you think about cultural differences?
• What were your experiences with culture shock when going abroad and returning?
• How has studying abroad affected your views about your own education?

Submission
Submit copies of the essay and evaluation form to your Academic Advisor and Faculty Advisor within three weeks of your return from the program in which you are participating.