Advisors play a key role in assisting SMCM students with their study abroad plans – before, during, and after the experience. In order to aid in this process the IE Office is providing the below resources to assist with advising students in regards to their study abroad opportunities.
Core Curriculum and ELAW
Study abroad is one way that students can satisfy the Experiencing the Liberal Arts in the World (ELAW)requirement of the Core Curriculum, in fact more than 50% of SMCM choose to complete the ELAW requirement in this way, which encourages students to reflect upon and apply their ideas and knowledge from inside the classroom beyond into the world. Study abroad can also foster students’ sense of social and civic responsibility as well as understanding of fundamental issues of the 21st century.
Students will enroll in their study abroad program and CORE 350 (a zero-credit course) concurrently and will be able to do so through an online application system. If you have any questions in regards to the ELAW requirement please contact Dr. Christine Wooley.
Advising
Students who are thinking about and/or planning on studying abroad will go through a two-phase process: an application phase and a pre-departure phase. We recommend that any student interested in studying abroad first visit the Programs website to explore the possible program options before discussing them with their Academic Advisor and the IE Office.
It is extremely important that any student thinking about studying abroad talk to their academic advisor about their potential study abroad program. You, as their advisor, can assist them in determining which program or programs best fits their academic needs and assist them in keeping on track with their degree requirements.
Additionally, as an advisor, you may be asked to fill out a recommendation form for your student as a part of the application process. All recommendations are now completed on-line and in order for your to be able to complete the recommendation form the student will need to start an application for their chosen program and request a recommendation through this system. If you have difficulty in accessing the form please contact the IE Office for assistance.
Important Dates
All program applications are due to the Office of International Education by the following dates. No late applications will be accepted using this system. Scholarship applications are due two weeks before program applications.
- October 15th – for winter break, spring break, and spring semester study abroad programs
- Feb 1st – for study tours
- April 1st – summer programs
- March 15th – for fall and academic year programs
*Please note some study tours may have their own deadlines. Please check the individual program to determine the most up-to-date deadline.
Completing Recommendation Forms
A step-by-step visual guide is available for any faculty or staff who need to complete a Faculty/Advisor Recommendation form.