In response to the February 28 column by Baylea O’Brien, “Studying abroad should be open to all,” the International Peer Assistants of the University’s Study Abroad Programs would like to address the unfair representation of the office’s mission.
Quite simply, we are committed to sending as many students abroad as possible. We seek well-rounded candidates who are prepared for the challenges of life abroad through an interview process and statements of purpose rather than by grades alone.
It is understandable that Ms. Sheridan would feel alienated by what she deemed a cold, impersonal process based merely upon grade point averages, but this is simply not the case. Our GPA requirements range from 2.5 to 3.0 and Ms. Sheridan claims to have had a 2.5 GPA, which would make her eligible for a large number of programs.
O’Brien uses very conditional language in her article, suggesting Ms. Sheridan did not come to speak with one of the many advisors in our office. If she had, she would have been well aware of the requirements, which are also clearly posted on our website.
In addition, our program advisors will meet with students who do not meet the stated requirements in order to come up with an individualized plan to meet their academic interests and goals, enabling them to still go abroad.
Our expectations of students are not based merely upon academic merit, but we expect a certain degree of academic discipline and maturity from students because we want students to be successful in their new environment and feel this requirement is reasonable.
The name “study abroad” implies an educational experience that does not solely involve cultural immersion and travel.
O’Brien’s moving story about Ms. Sheridan’s experience in Nepal would be equally possible through a University-sponsored program. We have programs that are as short as three weeks, and each one is aimed at providing a deep level of cultural immersion.
With more than 165 programs in 90 countries, we try to meet the academic and personal needs of each student, and as O’Brien noted in her column, we also offer internship opportunities in more than 40 countries. These internships provide students with real-world experience that extends beyond academic credit, but are no less challenging and rewarding for students.
Students only need to be on University academic good standing to be eligible, but they still must demonstrate academic discipline and motivation that extends beyond the classroom.
It is the belief of the University Study Abroad Programs office that an international experience is a crucial part of a university education and is necessary to create a well-rounded individual, ready to take part in an increasingly interconnected world.
University President Richard Lariviere has repeatedly expressed his support for study abroad programs, even suggesting that all students should go abroad.
We welcome anyone and everyone seeking an enriching international experience to visit our office in 333 Oregon Hall. We have drop-in advising Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students can also visit our website: studyabroad.uoregon.edu.
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Letter: Column unfairly depicts University study abroad requirement
Daily Emerald
March 3, 2011
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