Many students dream of being able to study abroad. Traveling is one of the most expansive endeavors a person can undergo in their life. International travel provides perspective and encourages self-examination.
Southwestern College launched the South Africa Volunteer Abroad Program in March. This volunteer program is not a normal study abroad arrangement. Student learning that takes place in a typical study abroad trip focuses on subjects such as international relations, business or foreign languages, rather than hands-on work found in the volunteer program. SWC’s educational service project was a 15-day volunteer program located in Cape Town, South Africa where students teach in poor township schools in impoverished communities.
While this was a worthwhile endeavor, it was not a true study abroad program because college students did not receive instruction or credits. There was also a $400 deposit due when turning in the application. Students should have been able to pay the deposit after they know whether or not they have been accepted into this volunteer program. The $400 deposit is refundable, minus a $100 administration fee.
Money is not easy to come by, especially for students, $100 is a good chunk of funds to lose out on.
In recent years, SWC has offered excursions to China, Brazil, Spain and Peru. The Center for International Studies and Programs develops not-for-credit trips designed for community and staff development. These are also not true study abroad programs, but more like leisure trips that do not earn students any credits for participation. Currently, there are no future excursions planned for SWC students.
SWC has been collaborating with a number of Chinese entities since 1999. Guangzhou City Polytechnic has programs of study that include auto technology, machinery and electricity skill training. SWC only offers vocational education, and many students who want to study abroad do not need to learn about engineering or architecture. SWC needs to provide a variety of beneficial options that students can choose from without feeling limited.
Students who pay hundreds of dollars for limited classes deserve more study abroad programs. If students cannot receive the classes needed here due to lack of space and cut backs, they should be able to enjoy the experience of studying abroad. After all, the money comes out of the students’ own pocket. Those willing to pay to participate in these programs should be provided with the opportunity to choose where they would like to study abroad. As of right now, students do not have that option. We are possibly the most diverse corner of the planet, yet the travel abroad program at SWC is miniscule.
Southwestern College, the borderlands college, should be a leader in international studies, rich in choices and creative in application. SWC needs to turn loose its international studies team and let imagination run wild. It is, after all, a great world out there.
