Frequently Asked Questions
Details about the Study Abroad programs at Colorado Mountain College
1. How will studying abroad benefit me?
2. How does my major and future career fit in?
3. Isn’t studying abroad expensive?
4. Can I still graduate in time if I study abroad?
5. Can I study abroad if I don’t know a foreign language?
6. Can I study abroad with a low GPA?
7. Are there opportunities to do something internationally without studying abroad?
8. How do I find out more about the programs that are available?
9. Where can I find general information about international travel and education?
1. How will studying abroad benefit me?
At the most personal level, students return from studying abroad with an increased self-confidence, self-awareness, maturity, tolerance, and understanding of their place in the world. The comment we hear most often from returned students is that they have gained an entirely new perspective of who they are, how others see them, and how they see the world.
Students who have studied abroad have a distinct advantage academically and in the job market. So, whether you are headed for graduate school or a professional job, you will stand out among the applicants. Having international experience shows graduate school admissions staff and potential employers that you have the skills to interact with people from other cultures and that you are independent, flexible, and adaptable. It also indicates that you have an understanding of world affairs and that you have gained the ability to view situations from multiple perspectives. Beyond the general benefits, study abroad may allow you to obtain direct experience relating to your major and the type of job you will be seeking.
2. How does my major and future career fit in?
Other benefits obtained from spending a semester or year abroad may include:
- Becoming an experienced world traveler
- Establishing life-long friendships with people from all over the world
- Learning a foreign language or becoming fluent in one
- Becoming immersed in another culture and feeling comfortable with it
- Improving your interpersonal skills
3. Isn’t studying abroad expensive?
There are a number of programs available to CMC students. If you receive state or federal financial aid, you can use it for all study abroad programs approved by the Office of International Programs. CMC institutional scholarships may be applied to study abroad programs.
4. Can I still graduate in time if I study abroad?
Many of your degree requirements can be taken abroad. There is absolutely no reason why you would have to add more semesters to obtain your degree just because you want to study abroad. Once you begin planning your study abroad experience, you will work with your academic adviser on choosing the courses you will take overseas and how those will transfer to CMC.
5. Can I study abroad if I don’t know a foreign language?
Absolutely! You have the choice of studying abroad in an English-speaking country or a foreign language speaking country. There are many programs that offer beginning, intermediate, and advanced language training.
6. Can I study abroad with a low GPA?
Yes! Most programs require a 2.5 cumulative GPA or better. There are some programs that will accept a lower GPA.
7. Are there opportunities to do something internationally without studying abroad?
Independent studies, volunteer work and teaching opportunities are also possibilities. The time commitment varies according to the program and/or your own requirements.
8. How do I find out more about the programs that are available?
In 2012-2013, we have one program still accepting applications:
Peru Summer Spanish Immersion, Deadline to apply is April 1
- Please contact Lauren DeAre by email for more information about any of these programs or with general questions: ldeare@coloradomtn.edu.
9. Where can I find general information about travel and international education?
Related Sites and Travel Information
An essential element of the Study Abroad experience is the proper planning and research. Below is a list of sites which may help you plan your trip.
General Study Abroad Links:
TransitionsAbroad.com - On-line work and study abroad information
GoAbroad.com - Resources for studying, interning, working, traveling abroad
Lonely Planet Online - An all-around helpful website for travel information
Study Abroad Search Engine - Searchable database and information on study abroad programs
Council on International Educational Exchange - Information on travel and exchange/study abroad
General Information Links:
NAFSA - Association of International Educators
CIEE - Council on International Educational Exchange
OANDA.com - Currency Exchange Rates
Foreign Currency Exchange Rates
U.S. State Department information and alerts
Centers for Disease Control
Cum Laude in Evading Bandit
Embassy and Consulate Information:
Embassy.org
Embassy World
Country Briefings:
Economist
U.S. Department of State Background Notes
World Factbook
Resources for U.S. Citizens:
U.S. Department of State - General information useful for all international travelers
Passport
Visa InformationPacking Tips (pdf)