The application deadline for acceptance into SF State’s study abroad programs for Fall 2004 has been extended. The California State University cutoff is now on Feb. 10, the Bilateral Program on March 1.

With the university’s Office of International Programs stressing its “easier and more affordable than you think” approach, it’s no surprise that more students are heading off to places like Europe, Asia and Canada to study. In fact, SF State has the second highest acceptance rate in the statewide CSU program, said Kati Bell, study abroad advisor.

“It’s just like you’re taking classes at SF State, said Marisa Thigpen, advisor for International Exchange Programs (IEP), at one of the IEP’s weekly study abroad informational meetings. “The credits transfer automatically as you are given resident credit for all classes that you take overseas.”

The cost of studying abroad for a semester is about the same -- if not less -- than the cost of going to a regular CSU, depending on which country one chooses to study in. The IEP argues that the cost of living contributes to a large chunk of the savings a student will find when studying overseas.

“The average rent for an apartment in most countries is $200 to $300 per month,” said Bell. “And if you are on financial aid at SF State, that goes with you, as well.”

SF State’s IEP program comes complete with advising staff at the host universities to assist exchange students with classes and living arrangements.
Noah Kuchins, SF State student and an alumnus of the IEP program, signed up to spend a year in France in 2001 to study the French language. He enjoyed the experience so much that he chose to spend a second year in the program to study advanced European politics in Paris.

“Half of the students there couldn’t believe they were there to study,” said Kuchins. “It’s a learning experience just to be in another country, to be exposed to a different culture and perspective.”

The scenery, Kuchins added, was like no other. With the Mediterranean and French Riviera right outside his doorstep, he described himself as being “in the middle of the most beautiful place on earth” while studying abroad.

Michael Franchetti, another alumnus of the IEP, spent this past year in England at the University of East Anglica to study film.

“Everyone there was really friendly and helpful,” said Franchetti. “Classes are smaller -- about 15 students or so.”

With a semester study load consisting of his choice of either two 10-page papers or one 10-page paper and a two hour exam, there was time to visit other places in Europe.

“Students do very well academically because they’re not working for the most part and the programs are at their level,” said Thigpen.

Bell added that a lot of students return more mature and focused than ever.
While many of the study abroad programs are for upper division students, Bell stressed that the programs are open to all full-time, sophomore level or higher undergraduates. Most majors are accepted in the program. There is no application fee, and daily application meetings are held this week.

For more information, contact the Office of International Programs in Room 450 of the Administration Building, or call the office at (415) 338-6757.