WEST CAMPUS – Politically minded Valencia students have a
chance to explore the “city of lights” and beyond in the summer of 2013.
Students who wish to enroll in International Politics while
experiencing the local flavor can choose to travel to France and Belgium for
nine days next year. This short-term study abroad trip will begin in Paris and
will terminate in Brussels, exploring Strasbourg and points between.
“This is my first time leading a study abroad course, so I am
excited to really get this up and running more than anything,” said trip
adviser Professor Scott Creamer. He can be found teaching political science at
Valencia’s Osceola campus.
Activities will range from walking tours to group activities
and lectures. Be prepared for total immersion: much time will be spent on foot
and utilizing local transit.
“This course is certainly not geared just to the student
interested in politics. The course
will offer a look at much more than that,” said Creamer. “Students can expect
to indulge in the art, food, and music of France and Belgium as part of the
cultural experience.
According to Valencia’s information page, “Students will study
government in Europe, the operation of international organizations, the
practice of international law, the outcomes of regional cooperation (especially
economically), and diplomacy by experiencing them firsthand.”
“Who knows, they may become ‘politicos’ themselves after the
experience,” said Creamer.
All activities are mandatory, and according to the itinerary
provided by Valencia, the trip will be preceded by orientations and requisite
assignments beginning as early as February.
The course itself is worth three credit hours. Requirements for
the program include a minimum GPA of 2.5 at the time of application and
students must be above 18 years of age.
“My program benefits students especially interested in
fulfilling social science/humanities requirements as part of their general
education requirements,” said Creamer. “It is a three-credit section of
International Politics that serves the same purpose as either the face-to-face
or online version.”
Creamer believes that the benefit of the trip will extend
beyond simple immersion in local politics. Students should take credit hours as
a welcome bonus to the unforgettable experience that international travel
provides.
“I hope students get what I got out of my study abroad
experience - something they'll never forget and something that changes their
perspective on what they see and hear around them regularly.”
Application deadline for the France and Belgium trip is Feb. 1,
2013.
For more information, visit the program website.
For more information, visit the program website.
