Up In The Air
August 8, 2010
Students begin making plans to study abroad
Did I pack too much?
The fall semester is rapidly approaching and students have begun considering studying abroad. According to Michal McElwain Malur, director of External Programs for George Mason University’s School of Public Policy, students “typically start planning to attend a year in advance.” All study abroad courses are 3 credits and all SPP students are eligible to attend.
The first trip offered for the upcoming school year will be to Singapore and India. The trip will take place during winter break. Students who took part in the program last year studied trade and development.
Students will also have the opportunity to go to Mexico over spring break. Last year’s trip focused on transnational management and trade.
At least three summer trips will also be offered. One to Oxford centered on Britain and its relationship with the European Union, and one to China where students will learn about China’s recent growth as an economic and political power. There is also a plan to offer a study abroad next summer to South Africa.
The trips for next year will be confirmed at the start of the summer semester.
The most recently completed program took place in Mexico during spring break. Students experienced the country’s rich history and culture by visiting colonial palaces and the remains of ancient civilizations.
In addition to hearing from business leaders about Mexico’s economic potential, students witnessed pervasive income inequality. Masters in Public Policy student, Kyle Miller described traveling to areas not normally seen by tourists: “Squatter villages stretched as far as the eye can see, and people are living in abject poverty,” he said. “This was very disturbing considering that the U.S. is right next door.”
As part of the activities centered on politics and government, students were also given the unique opportunity to meet Mexican President, Felipe Calderon.
For students considering studying abroad, Miller said, “I would recommend this trip to anyone — with or without a particular interest in Mexico. You will have a new appreciation for their country when you return home.”
This article was written in Spring 2010. Since then, there have been two successful trips to South Africa and Oxford.
Sean Joyce, Stylus Correspondent