{"id":127,"date":"2021-04-14T18:17:07","date_gmt":"2021-04-14T18:17:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/geo\/?page_id=127"},"modified":"2026-07-30T14:35:56","modified_gmt":"2026-07-30T14:35:56","slug":"global-engagement","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/geo\/","title":{"rendered":"Global Engagement Office (GEO)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Study Abroad: Travel that Transforms<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Studying abroad is one of the most transformative experiences available at The College of Wooster. Whether you&#8217;re considering a semester abroad, a faculty-led TREK, an internship, or independent research, the Global Engagement Office is here to help you explore your options, navigate the application process, prepare for departure, and make the most of your experience abroad. Wherever you are in your journey, we&#8217;re here to help you take the next step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;autoclose&quot;: false, &quot;accordionItems&quot;: [] }\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/accordion\" role=\"group\" class=\"wp-block-accordion is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-is-layout-flow\">\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-1&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-1-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" data-wp-on--keydown=\"actions.handleKeyDown\" id=\"accordion-item-1\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\">Benefits of Studying Abroad<\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div inert aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-1\" data-wp-bind--inert=\"!state.isOpen\" id=\"accordion-item-1-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Studying abroad offers a myriad of benefits that extend beyond the confines of traditional academic pursuits. One of the most prominent advantages is the opportunity for personal and cultural growth. Living in a foreign country exposes students to diverse perspectives, customs, and traditions, fostering a heightened sense of global awareness and adaptability. The experience encourages individuals to step out of their comfort zones, promoting independence and resilience. Moreover, studying abroad provides a unique chance to enhance language skills, as immersion in a new environment facilitates a natural and practical approach to language acquisition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Beyond the classroom, students can build international networks and establish connections that may prove invaluable in their future careers. Additionally, the exposure to different educational systems broadens one\u2019s intellectual horizons, encouraging critical thinking and a more comprehensive understanding of global issues. Overall, studying abroad is a transformative experience that not only enriches academic knowledge but also shapes well-rounded, culturally sensitive individuals poised for success in an increasingly interconnected world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Academic Goals<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"block-05366bea-e5a4-435a-a338-dbd80e8c5d9a\">No matter what your major or area of interest, studying abroad has enormous academic benefits:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"block-50e79f08-c1a8-4747-8600-ac2cc766710d\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Gain critical thinking skills through exposure to different cultures and perspectives.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Create and foster a strong interest in life-long learning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Develop foreign language skills.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Study topics not offered at Wooster.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Experience new ways of teaching and learning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Broaden your understanding of the world.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Professional Goals<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"block-0d6e7e23-231c-4a20-af17-ea2b17affb1d\">The professional benefits of study abroad are vast, and last long after returning from abroad. In fact, many employers are specifically looking for the very skills that you will gain during your study abroad experience. You will gain:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"block-1445526a-00ec-4c5d-86ec-1e1b07a0b90c\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The ability to communicate across cultures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The ability to problem-solve in unfamiliar situations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Culturally intelligent listening and communication skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The opportunity to discover alternative career paths<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The ability to view situations from unique perspectives<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>An appreciation of difference<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Note that many of our programs offer internships and\/or robust volunteer opportunities. If you choose to complete one of these, you&#8217;ll increase your global professional network and add a really interesting element to your resume!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"block-2953b852-790f-4c12-99ae-3cfaf0b3de36\"><strong>Data shows that studying abroad will increase your job prospects and earning potential:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"block-bc87371c-c987-4c26-980d-88112f608c07\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>90% of study abroad students found their first job within 6 months of graduation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>89% of those continuing to graduate school earned admission into their first or second choice school<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Study abroad students on average earn $6,000 more in starting salaries compared to non-study abroad students<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>International internships are an excellent discussion topic for your job interviews<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Personal Goals<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"block-109476c2-885e-41b8-a240-e158d51af1ff\">You\u2019ll hear many returnee students say that study abroad changed their lives. Here are a few examples of how study abroad can benefit you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul id=\"block-a89024a2-c53c-4476-ad45-1c9c6e4d0260\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Travel to new places and make friends from around the world<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Become more independent, self-reliant, and confident<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Learn more about yourself and who you want to be<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Learn how to adapt effectively in culturally diverse environments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Try new foods and have unique experiences<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\">Types of Programs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Global Engagement Office offers a variety of international experiences designed to fit different academic goals, interests, and schedules. Whether you&#8217;re looking for a semester-long immersion, a summer academic experience, a faculty-led program, or support for independent research abroad, GEO can help you find the opportunity that&#8217;s right for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;autoclose&quot;: false, &quot;accordionItems&quot;: [] }\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/accordion\" role=\"group\" class=\"wp-block-accordion is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-is-layout-flow\">\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-2&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading has-medium-font-size\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-2-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" data-wp-on--keydown=\"actions.handleKeyDown\" id=\"accordion-item-2\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\">Semester Study Abroad<\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div inert aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-2\" data-wp-bind--inert=\"!state.isOpen\" id=\"accordion-item-2-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Semester study abroad allows students to spend a fall or spring semester living and studying in another country while earning credit toward their Wooster degree. Students can choose from hundreds of approved programs around the world, offering coursework across a wide range of academic disciplines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A semester abroad provides the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in another culture, develop greater independence, and gain a global perspective while making progress toward your academic goals. Many programs also offer opportunities for language learning, experiential education, and community engagement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Semester programs are ideal for students seeking a comprehensive international experience.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;autoclose&quot;: false, &quot;accordionItems&quot;: [] }\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/accordion\" role=\"group\" class=\"wp-block-accordion is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-is-layout-flow\">\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-3&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading has-medium-font-size\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-3-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" data-wp-on--keydown=\"actions.handleKeyDown\" id=\"accordion-item-3\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\">Summer Study Abroad<\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div inert aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-3\" data-wp-bind--inert=\"!state.isOpen\" id=\"accordion-item-3-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Summer study abroad offers the opportunity to earn academic credit abroad during the summer months. Programs typically range from a few weeks to several months and are offered by universities and approved study abroad providers around the world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Summer programs are an excellent option for students who want an international experience but are unable to spend an entire semester away due to academic, athletic, or extracurricular commitments. Depending on the program, students may focus on coursework, language study, field experiences, or specialized topics within their discipline.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-4&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading has-medium-font-size\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-4-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" data-wp-on--keydown=\"actions.handleKeyDown\" id=\"accordion-item-4\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\">Faculty-Led TREKs<\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div inert aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-4\" data-wp-bind--inert=\"!state.isOpen\" id=\"accordion-item-4-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">TREKs are short-term, faculty-led international courses that combine classroom learning with travel abroad. Designed and led by Wooster faculty, these programs allow students to engage directly with the people, places, and cultures connected to their coursework.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because TREKs are built around a specific academic theme, students gain firsthand experience through site visits, cultural activities, guest speakers, and experiential learning opportunities. TREKs are a unique way to study abroad while traveling with Wooster faculty and classmates.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-class--is-open=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-context=\"{ &quot;id&quot;: &quot;accordion-item-5&quot;, &quot;openByDefault&quot;: false }\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.initAccordionItems\" data-wp-on-window--hashchange=\"callbacks.hashChange\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-item is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-item-is-layout-flow\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading has-medium-font-size\"><button aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"accordion-item-5-panel\" data-wp-bind--aria-expanded=\"state.isOpen\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.toggle\" data-wp-on--keydown=\"actions.handleKeyDown\" id=\"accordion-item-5\" type=\"button\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle\"><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-title\">Independent Research Abroad<\/span><span class=\"wp-block-accordion-heading__toggle-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">+<\/span><\/button><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div inert aria-labelledby=\"accordion-item-5\" data-wp-bind--inert=\"!state.isOpen\" id=\"accordion-item-5-panel\" role=\"region\" class=\"wp-block-accordion-panel is-layout-flow wp-block-accordion-panel-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Wooster encourages students to pursue original research around the world. Students conducting Independent Study, senior research, internships with a research component, or other faculty-mentored projects abroad can receive guidance and support from GEO throughout the planning process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">GEO can assist with travel planning, health and safety preparation, international insurance, travel registration, and connecting students with campus resources to help ensure a successful research experience abroad.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-medium-font-size\"><strong>Which Program Is Right for You?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best study abroad experience depends on your academic goals, personal interests, timeline, and budget. A GEO advisor can help you compare program options, understand eligibility requirements, and identify the experience that best aligns with your educational and career goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you&#8217;re planning to spend a few weeks abroad or an entire semester immersed in another culture, the Global Engagement Office is here to help you every step of the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For a complete list of study abroad opportunities, please visit <strong>GEO-Compass<\/strong> at <a href=\"https:\/\/geo.wooster.edu\">geo.wooster.edu<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-large-font-size\">Connect with GEO<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you&#8217;re just beginning to explore study abroad or you&#8217;re ready to submit an application, the Global Engagement Office is here to help. Our advising model is designed to connect you with the right person at the right time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Start with a GEO Peer Advisor<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re new to study abroad, your first stop should be a <strong>GEO 101 appointment<\/strong> with one of our Peer Advisors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As students who have studied abroad themselves, our Peer Advisors understand what it&#8217;s like to navigate the process. They can help you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Learn about the different types of study abroad opportunities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Explore programs that match your interests.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understand the basic application process.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Learn about deadlines and next steps.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Share their own experiences and answer questions from a student perspective.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A GEO 101 appointment is the best way to begin your study abroad journey and prepare for a meeting with a GEO advisor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-text-align-center wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/bookings.cloud.microsoft\/book\/GEO101@livewooster.onmicrosoft.com\/\">Schedule a GEO 101 Appointment<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Meet with GEO Professional Staff<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After completing GEO 101, you&#8217;ll work one-on-one with GEO professional staff to develop your study abroad plan and navigate the application process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During your advising appointment, you&#8217;ll receive personalized guidance on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Selecting the program that best fits your academic and personal goals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Understanding costs, financial aid, and scholarships.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Completing your GEO and program applications.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Credit transfer and academic planning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Health, safety, and travel preparation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Preparing for a successful experience abroad.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you&#8217;re planning a semester abroad, a summer program, a faculty-led TREK, or independent research, we&#8217;re here to support you from your first questions through your return to campus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-text-align-center wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/bookings.cloud.microsoft\/book\/GEO101@livewooster.onmicrosoft.com\/\">Schedule an Advising Appointment<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Visit the Global Engagement Office<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We&#8217;re here to help you every step of the way\u2014from exploring your options to preparing for departure and returning to campus. Whether you have a quick question or need personalized advising, we encourage you to reach out or stop by our office.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Global Engagement Office is located in <strong>APEX (Advising, Planning &amp; Experiential Learning)<\/strong>. Visitors are welcome during regular business hours, and appointments are encouraged for advising conversations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Global Engagement Office<\/strong><br>APEX \u2013 Advising, Planning &amp; Experiential Learning<br>The College of Wooster<br><strong>Office:<\/strong> Andrews Library 044C<br><strong>Email:<\/strong> <a>geo@wooster.edu<\/a><br><strong>Phone:<\/strong> 330-263-2156<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Office Hours<\/strong><br>Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday<br>9:00 a.m.\u20134:00 p.m.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Questions?<\/strong><br>If you&#8217;re unsure where to begin, simply send us an email or schedule a GEO 101 appointment. We&#8217;re always happy to help you take the next step toward your global experience.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Study Abroad: Travel that Transforms Studying abroad is one of the most transformative experiences available at The College of Wooster. Whether you&#8217;re considering a semester abroad, a faculty-led TREK, an internship, or independent research, the Global Engagement Office is here to help you explore your options, navigate the application process, prepare for departure, and make [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1414,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-127","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/geo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/127","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/geo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/geo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/geo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1414"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/geo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=127"}],"version-history":[{"count":83,"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/geo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/127\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":593,"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/geo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/127\/revisions\/593"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/inside.wooster.edu\/geo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=127"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}