Thank you for your interest in studying abroad.  Studying abroad will give you an opportunity to make lifelong friendships with people you would not have met

Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime experience and learning opportunity.  It is one of the most rewarding experiences in a college student’s career.  It is an opportunity to get to know another culture, live in a new environment, learn a new language, and make new friends.  These are only some of the great benefits that students enjoy from studying abroad.  Equally important for American students is the discovery of their own country – its customs, its traditions and values – as they come to see them from an international perspective.  It is common to hear returnees say that the overseas experience has changed their lives.  This experience will also set you apart from other job seekers in a very competitive job market as you highlight your experience in job interviews and on your resume.

We hope that you will take advantage of some of the many opportunities to acquire international experience that await you during your college experience.  West Chester University is your gateway to the world!

Sincerely,

Angela S. Howard

Assistant Director

International Studies

Mission Statement

The mission of the Center for International Programs office is to serve all West Chester University students by providing academically-based international experiences which will give them the skills to be active, informed, and culturally sensitive citizens in the global community.

In order to achieve this, the CIP will endeavor to increase WCU student participation in study abroad by:

• Providing students with a high level of service and preparing them to meet the challenges of an international experience

• Advise students about their study abroad options and assist them in finding the programs that best meet their needs

• Articulating to the WCU community the importance of study abroad as part of a student’s overall education

• Continuously assess and improve study abroad at WCU