Fak money: 2012

четверг, 13 сентября 2012 г.

Study Abroad in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is the hub of Argentina in almost all senses. It fulfills an extremely important role as Argentina’s major port city. It is the center of the country’s cultural, economic, industrial, and political life. The population of the city proper is almost 2.8 million while the area known as Greater Buenos Aires is estimated to have a population of over 12 million.

Tango is one of the cultural treasures born in Buenos Aires. This evocative dance form began around the end of the 19th century and by 1902 the Teatro Opera had begun organizing tango balls. By the 1920s this dance form became popular in Parisian high society and spread throughout the world from there. One of the singers who helped to popularize and refine tango music was Carlos Gardel. Today, Gardel is still highly regarded, even idolized, and thousands visit his tomb every year. Many will put a lit cigarette in the hand of the life-sized statue that stands over the tomb.

In addition to its famous tango music, Argentina has also given birth to a number of famous authors. Jorge Luis Borges is probably the best-known. He is famous for his short stories and essays and also wrote poetry and criticism. Other significant writers include Adolfo Bioy Casares, Ernesto Sábato, Victoria Ocampo, and Julio Cortázar. The University of Buenos Aires is one of the most prestigious universities in South America and has produced five Nobel Prize winners.

The population of Buenos Aires is incredibly diverse. The majority of the Argentines of the city are of Spanish or Italian descent. However, there are also significant communities of people of Arab, Jewish, Armenian, Anglo-Irish, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean descent. The Buenos Aires population also contains a minority of mixed Spanish-aboriginal heritage.

In many ways, the architecture of the city is far more reminiscent of Europe than much of the rest of South America. Perhaps the most famous building in the city is the Casa Rosada (Pink House), which is the official seat of the Executive Branch of the country’s government. The Casa Rosada is located downtown on the Plaza de Mayo – the city’s main square. Wandering around the square you can see many of the city’s other famous buildings including the Cabildo, which housed the city council in earlier times, the current city hall, and the Metropolitan Cathedral.

One of the most popular pastimes in Buenos Aires is football (soccer to US readers), whether people are playing or watching it. Popular teams include the Boca Juniors, River Plate, San Lorenzo de Almagro, and Vélez Sarsfield. Horses are extremely popular in Argentine sports and you can find horse racing, polo, and pato. Pato is similar to basketball only on horseback and the Argentine Congress declared it Argentina’s national game in 1953. Regular basketball, tennis, rugby, and field hockey are also popular.

Buenos Aires is a diverse, multicultural center with a proud history, fascinating culture, and influential economy. Studying in this Argentine gem will provide you with excellent opportunities to immerse yourself in a new culture among people speaking a different language while exploring a complex, yet welcoming, city.

Study Abroad in Florence

The Art of Study Abroad in Florence
Michelangelo, Donatello … no we’re not talking about the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles-we’re talking about Florence, the capital city of the Tuscan region of Italy, where the two famous artists of the same names lived and changed the face of the art world forever (not that those heroes in half shells weren’t totally bodacious).

An Original College Town
Florence has been drawing students to its universities for centuries, thanks to the numerous well-known natives who paved the way for future artists, architects, scientists, thinkers and writers. Long ago, students flocked to the city to learn alongside and about people like the ‘non-Ninja Turtles’ above, as well as scientist Galileo, architect Filippo Brunelleschi and many more.

Today’s students find these Florentine innovators and the city just as fascinating and relevant:

Study abroad programs in Florence are popular in part because education in Italy is so well-respected
Florence is home to the European University Institute, the premier student research organization in the world
The United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) estimates that 60 percent of the world’s greatest artwork is located in Florence
It’s no secret that Florence is best known for its dominance in the arts. Florence study abroad programs in the arts abound and students are keeping the artistic legacy alive with their own contemporary works. Sure, it’s Paris that’s got the Louvre, but art students shouldn’t overlook all Florence has to offer:

Florence was the birthplace of the Renaissance, and the Oltrarno section will expose you to the city’s newest generation of artisans and craftspeople
A visit to the Uffizi Gallery, with its collection that includes works by Cimabue, da Vinci and Botticelli, cannot be missed
Check out the Accademia Gallery at the Duomo and get a look at Michelangelo’s David
The National Museum ‘Il Bargello,’ which was established in 1255, offers art students the chance to see the works of Michelangelo and Donatello, as well as Brunelleschi. Architecture students who study abroad in Florence will be especially interested in Brunelleschi, as his architecture is seen by many as just as much works of art as Michelangelo’s David or the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. In particular, students of architecture will not want to miss:

Brunelleschi’s 15th century Gallery of the ‘Hospital of the Innocents,’ which features frescoes depicting the famous Medici family
Micelozzo’s 14th century Piazza di San Marco, the Piazza della SS. Annunziata and the Convento di San Marco
Arnolfo di Cambrio’s Palazzo Vecchio, a center of Florentine politics, which was begun in 1299.
Never heard of Di Cambrio? He was the architect of the famous Italian Gothic Cathedral, the Duomo, dedicated to Santa Maria del Fiore, that now houses many well-known sculptures. But even if art and architecture aren’t your things, there’s tons of fields to study abroad in Florence. Take the romantic Italian language, for example. The friendly Florentine natives will be more than happy to patiently help you with your skills. In addition, humanities students may want to study in Florence, since it’s known as the city where the field was born.More Than Just Studying
When you enroll in a Florence study abroad program you’ll receive an excellent education, but you’ll also gain a unique perspective on a culture much different from your own. Florence is considered by many to be a world cultural center, so it’s hard not to trip over culture nearly everywhere you go in the small city.

And because it’s a small city, bring your walking shoes when you study abroad in Florence-there’s really no need for automatic transportation unless:

You decide to travel to one of many other famous Italian cities, such as Rome, Milan or Venice
You take advantage of being in Europe and take some side trips to other countries (the Euro Rail is your best bet)
You and your buddies decide to sign up for a tour of the famous Chianti vineyards
You’ll probably want to walk around a bit to work off all of the tasty Italian food you’re bound to binge on. Food, of course, that you’ll wash down with a little Chianti (settle down, Hannibal-Italy doesn’t serve brains with the wine). Italy is famous for its food in general, but in Florence you’ll find Italian food at its most basic and pure. Florentines love their olive oil, meat, bread and cheese, and it’s reflected in their dishes.After eating Stracotto (braised beef), Pollo alla fiorentina (Florentine chicken) and cenci (sweet fritters), you’ll be ready to hit the night scene. Florence at night will keep you busy:

Cruise the bars, restaurants and clubs around the Duomo and the Piazza S. Spirito (a major meeting place)
Check out the gorgeous night view of the city from the Piazzale Michelangleo
Catch a show at the Teatro della Pergola, well-known for great theate
Nightlife in Florence varies from section to section. If the bohemian thing is your scene, hang out in the Oltrarno section. If you want to mingle with the ‘beautiful people,’ get over to the stylish Piazza della Signoria. Regardless, ask around and you’ll find out what’s going on every night-there’s always something in this exciting, adventurous mini-metropolis!Whether you study the art of Botticelli, the literature of Dante, the Italian language or really any other field, a study abroad program in Florence will be an unforgettable experience. Of all the Italian cities, Florence is the home of the most cultural diversity.

Each year, thousands of students from around the world study abroad in Florence. Why so many international students? Well, the world famous art is certainly one major draw. But that’s only a sliver of what study abroad in Florence has to offer. How about delicious Italian cuisine, legendary architecture, pulsating nightlife and world-class education? Even if you don’t speak Italian, a study abroad program in Florence is something you should get in on. Immediately.

Study Abroad in Dublin

If you’re looking for a city of over a million people that still manages to feel like a friendly, small neighborhood, Dublin has all that and more. Today the city boasts a booming economy and status as one of the premier destinations in Europe. However, the Dubliners have never been people that let things go to their heads and they remain friendly and welcoming as well as practical and down-to-earth.

Dublin is home to University College Dublin, the largest single university institution in Ireland. Founded in 1851 as the Catholic University of Ireland, the school has a long and proud tradition and was associated with many famous people, including several celebrated literary figures such as Gerard Manley Hopkins, Austin Clarke, and James Joyce. James Joyce is probably the most famous Irish author of all time and tours of the city revolve around his novels. The best known are Dubliners, A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man and Ulysses. Tours of the city are arranged so that you can walk where the characters of Joyce walked and experience the world that inspired his writing.

As part of the University of Dublin, Trinity College stands as one of the most prestigious schools as well as one of the biggest attractions of the city. Trinity College embodies the city’s ability to combine modern functionality with historical significance and a welcoming atmosphere. It has a fascinating history as home to some amazing scholars including Edmund Burke, Jonathan Swift, Samuel Beckett, Bram Stoker, and Oscar Wilde. It is also a popular destination for those interested in The Book of Kells. The Book of Kells was completed around 800 AD by a group of Columban monks living on Iona, a remote island off the west coast of Ireland. This manuscript contains transcriptions of the four Gospels with extensive illustrations and ornamentations on almost all of its 680 pages. It is the most elaborate and best preserved of the manuscripts from the early Middle Ages and demonstrates the type of illustration and scribe work that Irish monks were famous for during that time period.

Dublin Castle is another notable attraction. The center of British power in Ireland at one point, this castle was built on the orders of King John in the 13th century and more closely resembles a palace than the Anglo-Norman fortress that once stood in its place. The Record Tower is the only remaining evidence of this Viking foundation. Dublin is also noted for several other attractions such as the Guinness Brewery, Dublin Zoo, Phoenix Park, the National Gallery, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and more. Phoenix Park is actually one of the biggest city parks in the world, easily outdistancing New York’s Central Park and London’s Hampstead Heath. The National Gallery is free and showcases approximately 2,000 works from all the major European schools of painting and featuring Irish landscape art and portraits.

Another aspect of the city that is attractive to many students is the energy and opportunities present with the economic boom of the past decade. European Union membership and general economic success have transformed Dublin into a multicultural center with a thriving economy. But don’t be intimidated. Dublin still remains deeply in touch with its past and decidedly Irish. You will be hard pressed to find more welcoming or laid back people anywhere else in the world.</div>

Study Abroad in Barcelona

Known throughout the world for being on the cutting edge of fashion, Barcelona welcomes its international population with class and poise. Students in Barcelona will find a rich environment for exploring a variety of areas.

The renowned architect, Gaudi, left his indelible mark on the city’s architecture. Today those fascinated by his contributions to the field can study his work at La Pedrera, a fine museum. Art students can immerse themselves in the works of Dali and Picasso as well as other major figures, and there is also a museum known as Museu Picasso dedicated to Picasso’s works. These prevalent and historic figures along with a range of other artists featured in Barcelona provide a rich environment for students of any discipline.

Educational institutions such as the University of Barcelona welcome countless students into the city, both Spanish and foreign, providing a truly international mix. Over 76,000 students attend UB alone. Studies in Barcelona can cover a wide range of topics, although many students find it a good place for studying Spanish or Catalan. Others go to Barcelona for cultural studies such as the cultures of Latin American or Catalan. Many programs offer excellent international studies options including business, marketing, and more. Barcelona provides a particularly rich environment for these options due to the international, cosmopolitan environment of the city. Students can also delve into a variety of other subjects including geography, economics, history, political science, film studies, and many more.

Barcelona’s world-renowned stylishness seems to touch every aspect of city life from the art and architecture to the music and nightlife. Students will discover a variety of musical venues including fine operas and cutting-edge discotecas. As one of the world’s fashion plates, Barcelona is also popular for shopping and Las Ramblas is a famous series of 5 interconnected streets that boast being one of the finest pedestrian boulevards in the world. Cafés and shops delight while entertainments and talent shows abound. Barcelona provides an education on many levels and a stroll down Las Ramblas is a fascinating study in people watching.

Barcelona also provides a fascinating variation on Spanish culture. The city loves eating, drinking, and partying as you might find in Madrid, but does everything with more of an international influence. Barcelona shows a slightly different side of Spain than you might find elsewhere due to its geography and the influences throughout its history. The resistance of the Catalans over time has left the city with a free-spirited exuberance that both charms and welcomes. The strong cultural and linguistic roots of Catalonia are deeply embedded in the city’s past and give Barcelona much of its unique flavor.

Study in Barcelona is sure to broaden your horizons as well as improving your fashion sense!

Studying in Barcelona is sure to broaden your horizons as well as improve your fashion sense! There are plenty of cheap hotels in Barcelona for your friends to stay at when they visit you.

Study Abroad in Barcelona

Semester Programs

Academic Year Programs typically follow the traditional “Junior Year Abroad” model, where students spend a full academic year immersed in another culture and language. All of your classes for that academic year are conducted abroad and you live and work as though you have truly relocated your education to that country. These programs are ideal for students who want a complete study abroad experience.

Semester Abroad Programs follow a similar model to Academic Year Abroad Programs with the exception that they are shorter – one semester instead of an entire academic year. If you aren’t ready for the full commitment of an entire year, but you still want a complete, enriched experience, than a semester program might be what you are looking for.

Study Abroad in Paris

Paint Yourself in Paris
People in Paris are snooty, smelly and anti-American, right? Oh, contraire! In fact, you won’t be hard-pressed to find friendly natives, stores that stock deodorant or people who don’t perceive Americans as monsters.

Sure, Parisians love their food, fashion and wine, not to mention their art and literature. But they are also fiercely proud of their long history, as well as the high quality of their higher education system.

Get to know what the city is really like, clichés aside-get yourself signed up for a study abroad program in Paris.

Enlightened Education
Higher education in France is recognized worldwide for its excellence. When you study abroad in Paris, you can choose between universities or specialized schools, known as ‘grandes ecoles.’ One of the most obvious reasons (duh!) that people choose to study in the ‘City of Light’ is for the language. Numerous intensive study abroad programs in Paris give you the chance to take classes in French with native students. A French education is popular with students from around the world:

More than 10 percent of college students in Paris are international students
The most popular fields of study are the arts, architecture, engineering, management and political science
You’ll attend interesting lectures, as well as smaller study sections known as ‘travaux diriges’ and ‘travaux pratiques’
You’ll get to study art in the Louvre, architecture at the Eiffel Tower and history at the Notre Dame
Paris is one of the most artistic cities in the world and has produced some of the greatest artists of all time, including Degas, Cezanne and Monet. These guys were the rock stars of their day, and art students studying abroad in Paris will find countless spots to follow in their footsteps and study their craft:

No art student will want to miss the famous Louvre, but don’t expect to cover the home of the ‘Mona Lisa’ and ‘Venus de Milo’ in just one day
Right across from the Louvre, check out more than 80 galleries at the Orsay Museum
Get inspiration by visiting the Montmartre artist colony, where you can watch artists at work and shop at the Place du Tertre
The Museum of Modern Art is another draw for art students, while students of Rodin or Picasso will be happy to know that both artists have museums devoted strictly to them! Meanwhile, architecture students can:

Climb all 1,652 steps of the Eiffel Tower and catch a killer view
Explore the Gothic-styled Sainte-Chapelle, built in 1246, with its colorful Rose Window
Marvel at the Neoclassical Pantheon, with its dome and marble interior
Art, language, history and architecture are not shocking choices for studying abroad in Paris, but you may not know that France is known for its emphasis on research, which has led to great success in the sciences and technology as well. With native innovators like Marie Curie, Louis Pasteur and Nikola Tesla, it shouldn’t be so surprising!

Mellow Out, Man!
When you study abroad in Paris, let yourself go and give into the slower pace of Parisian life. The French can draw out just about any experience, so if you want to avoid standing out (you ugly American, you!), you’d do yourself a favor leaving your busy-body ways back in the States. It will do wonders for your stress levels, and you’ll discover that you’re still getting your work done.

Spend one night in Paris (and no, we’re not talking about a certain video that was shot in night-vision!), and you’ll be swept up by the lights, the people and the options. When not in class, continue growing and learning by exploring the 18th century Catacombs, or by experiencing glamorous history at the real Moulin Rouge. Marvel at the stunning white cathedral Sacre Coeur, that overlooks the entire city, or relax with a boat ride (or even a drink on a floating club) on the River Seine, and just observe and absorb the culture. It will make you that much more interesting, and that much more marketable, when you return home.

Those studying art, business, photography, museum studies, marketing and just about every other discipline find studying abroad in Paris lives up to the hype. It will make you a better student and job prospect back in America, but once you’re in pace with the Parisian spirit of enjoyment, you may not ever want to leave!

Summer Programs

Summer programs are ideal for those with a rigorous academic schedule that does not allow for much time away, or for those who simply wish to spend their summer abroad experiencing new worlds. Summer programs can be taken for credit and as part of your curriculum or as an extra activity that will expand your perspective for future studies and work.
Featured Summer Abroad Programs Programs
GLOBAL LEARNING SEMESTERS: Exciting Multi-country and Full-Immersion programs that combine university study abroad with educational travel

Programs Throughout Europe, the Mediterranean and Latin America
Accredited High-Quality Academics
Local and International Travel Included
Inclusive Fees and Great Program Value
Toll-Free Number: (877) 300-7010
www.globalsemesters.com

CENTER FOR STUDY ABROAD (CSA) - Register Direct – Low Cost – Open to All. Easy to register. Quick confirmation. No GPA required. Admission Guaranteed. College Credit earned. Credit cards accepted. Go direct with CSA. Since 1990.

BECOME A STUDENT OF THE WORLD THIS SUMMER

Study Abroad with NYU This Summer!

NYU Summer Study Abroad
APPLY TODAY:www.nyu.edu/info/aus/ms2469

Summer study abroad offered in 25 locations around the globe.
Earn credits in your major or minor.
Programs include cultural activities and excursions.
Language programs offered in Chinese, Czech, French, German, Greek, Italian, and Russian.
For more NYU Summer Study Abroad information, visit www.nyu.edu/info/aus/ms2469

Forum-Nexus Study Abroad: Multi-Country Summer and Winter Programs in Europe. All majors welcome. MBA level courses offered. AACSB accreditedEarn 3 or 6 credits for university. Traveling study abroad program: Students travel together in a group (with the professors) across Europe during the summer or winter breaks; taking classes, visiting universities, companies, and international organizations. Students study in classrooms in the morning, visit companies in the afternoon, and have abundant intercultural and tourist opportunities.
Transcripts from prestigious AACSB-accredited universities.

Program options:

Forum Europe Summer- July-August: Includes Barcelona, Paris, Geneva, Interlaken, Milan, Athens, Isle of Rhodes, Kusadasi and Istanbul
Forum Europe Winter Break- December-January: includes Spain, France, Switzerland, Italy, Greece and Turkey
Call (305)764-2243 9am-9pm (US, East Coast), 7 days/wk, www.forum-nexus.com

Program Highlights
Tisch School of the Arts at New York University
Undergraduate and graduate students from visiting colleges and universities are invited to participate in summer study abroad programs with NYU Tisch School of the Arts in Amsterdam, Berlin, Dublin, Florence, London, Paris, Prague and Sydney. Areas of study include 35 mm filmmaking, acting, photography, writing for film and television, and video production. In each program, the artistic techniques and traditions of the host country are emphasized during classes, as well as on field trips to performances and sessions with local artists. Students immerse themselves in the local cultures, often inspiring artistic expressions in their work. For more information about summer study abroad programs, please visit our Web Site at: www.nyu.edu/tisch/abroad11

Study Abroad in Italy

As an art history major also taking Italian, a study abroad program in Italy was a no-brainer for Emily. Now in the final week of her program, she reflects on all of the art, food and people in Italy that have opened her eyes to a whole new world.

Emily has fallen in love with Italy’s culture, which is all about the art, the language and the food. Italy has contributed so much to societies around the world for centuries, and its influence on the United States is no exception. Emily has been able to score some high-fashion additions to her wardrobe, thanks to a visit to the fashion capital of the world, Milan.

Besides Versace, Gucci and Armani, (and Christopher Columbus), Italy has given the world sleek sports cars like the Ferrari, musical instruments like the piano and everyday necessities like eyeglasses. The country has given birth to some of the greatest artists of all time and built some of the most amazing buildings-and its history never bored the rest of the world!

Artistic Education

From its ancient history to its exciting present, the ‘boot’ in the Mediterranean provides everything the visiting student could ever want. And thousands of international students prove it each year.

Study abroad programs in Italy are wildly popular and one reason is the historically stellar education offered by the country:

Italy has long been a leader in higher education-the University of Salerno was established in the 9th century, while the University of Bologna opened in 1088;
After earning a ‘laurea,’ or bachelor’s degree, a high number of Italian students go on to earn a ‘laurea specialistica,’ or master’s degree;
Italy is constantly working to improve higher education through reforms.
Emily enjoyed the fact that Italian universities give their students so much academic freedom, because she was able to take charge of her education. It gave her plenty of time to do what she wanted outside of the classroom. As an art history student she was able to see:

Michelangelo’s David, at the Galleria dell’ Accademia in Florence, as well as his famous frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City;
The works of Bernini, Raphael and Caravaggio at the Borghese Gallery in Rome;
Da Vinci’s The Last Supper in the church of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan.
One of the highlights of Emily’s time studying abroad in Italy was her visit to the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, which is the oldest gallery in the world. She also got to use her language skills every day as she learned more about Italian. Emily’s buddy Brian was studying abroad in Italy at the same time, focusing on the great architecture, including the ancient Pantheon and Roman Colosseum in Rome, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and St. Peter’s Basilica, with its dome originally designed by Michelangelo, to name a few.
Roaming Rome… And Beyond

Like many students, Emily has discovered that modern Italy is an exciting and complicated place-the blend of the ancient and the modern is evident on every street, especially in the major cities of Rome, Florence, Milan and Venice. The cities are electric with life at night, with clubs, bars and restaurants open late hours.

Emily spent hours roaming the cities with Brian and a mixture of local friends and other students studying abroad in Italy. They hung out at a few favorite cafes and restaurants where they could sample the delicious food that has been an Italian claim to fame for centuries. Pasta means ‘dough’ in Italy, but there was no way Emily and her friends could try all of the more than 140 types of pasta in the country.

There is a lot to keep students busy in Italy, whether in the cities or not:

Check out the three active volcanoes-Mount Vesuvius, Mount Etna and Mount Stromboli;
Italian locals will jump at the chance to teach students one of their favorite games, bocce ball;
Soaking up the Mediterranean sun on the white sands of the Venetian beach of Lido.
Italy is a big-time European beach destination, and students who study abroad in Italy during the warm months should take full advantage. The numerous islands, including Sicily, Capri, Elba and Volcano, are popular places for students to let loose. There are also many lakes for recreation, but don’t expect an invite to Lake Como from long-time resident George Clooney!

During her experience in an Italy study abroad program, Emily was able to do the traditional things, as well as mix it up a bit with some offbeat adventure:

Sure, she ate pizza in Naples, where it was invented;
Then there was that trip to Ischia, known as the ‘Emerald Island,’ where Emily mellowed out in a thermal spa;
She was lucky enough to catch the Venice Film Festival, the oldest film festival in the world.
In a week, Emily will return home with tons of pictures, a bunch of new clothes and a new appreciation for cultures different than her own. She now looks through different eyes at what’s around her and she can’t wait to share her experiences studying abroad in Italy with her family and friends. But she’s pretty sure she won’t find pizza that good back at home!

Where else on earth can you study in a place that offers such terrific leisure opportunities while also providing an unparalleled education? Whether you intend to study sculpture, literature, religion, philosophy or anything in between, study abroad Italy is sure to put it all into a whole new perspective, and to enrich your life in ways you never thought possible. Hey, it worked for Emily!

Study Abroad in England

Pop Quiz: What’s the only country in the world that receives more international students than the United States?

Pop Answer: jolly ol’e England.

This is the country that gave birth to William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens and Jane Austin; to Elton John, Amy Winehouse and the band Coldplay. This country has some serious street cred.

And, like a stand out on British Idol – which subsequently spawned American Idol – England’s got range. You can study business in metropolitan London, study literature at Shakespeare’s birthplace at Stratford-Upon-Avon or study history in 1,000-year-old Roman baths at the aptly named Bath.

In fact, no matter where you go in England, you’re bound to run into something educational. And more often than not, that something just happens to also be both fascinating and fun.

Get a Stellar Education
History majors have Stonehenge and Westminster Abbey. Art students have the Tate Modern and National Gallery. Literature fans have…well, is there any other country in the world with as storied a literature past than England? The point is, England has something for every student. And not just something like, ‘Oh yeah, I guess that’d be cool to see.’ Something like, if you don’t study abroad in England, you won’t have gotten the full college experience. England can provide you an educational growth spurt that’s the equivalent of transforming a jockey into Shaquille O’Neal. You truly will be changed forever, that can be all but guaranteed.

So many educational options are available to you in England. From the big names like Oxford and Cambridge to any of the 3,000 other English universities that accept international students, you can expect to receive a top-notch education.

Classes make use of lectures, intimate tutorials, and lab and field work;
Students can have fun, but are expected to do a great deal of preparation outside of the classroom;
Programs pride themselves on challenging students to become creative, independent thinkers.
And perhaps the best part – English is spoken in England, so you can experience the joys of visiting another country without having to learn a new language! Although you may want to watch those old Austin Powers classics to catch up on popular phrases like ‘Bob’s your uncle.’ And you may never figure out how exactly something called spotted dick can be considered a delicacy.

Experience a Rich and Varied Culture
If you’ve ever seen ‘Monty Python,’ then you already know the English have a healthy and quirky sense of humor (much funnier than the writers of this article). Taking that into account, and considering the friendly personalities that comes along with that, it won’t be long before you feel at home in England. And whether you tour the rolling countryside, travel the cities in a double-decker bus or take in a game of cricket, you can bet your knickers you’ll have a great time.

If you really think about it, England is the best possible study abroad location for college students. You can enjoy the lively nightlife found in London and take leisurely strolls along the Thames River, but you will also be pushed to be the best student you can be, and may very well learn more in one semester abroad than in all the other years at your home university.

Study Abroad in Spain

If you’ve ever thought of studying abroad in Spain, you’re not alone! Consistently ranked as one of the top ten worldwide study abroad locations, this southern European country has something to offer learners of nearly every discipline.

Consider the capital city of Madrid, which is often referred to as the cultural center of Spain. The sheer number of museums, theatres and architecturally significant structures and monuments will tire even the most voracious learners.

And then there’s Barcelona, “the fashion-forward” Spanish city, with an immensely diverse population. Students will appreciate not only the extensive opportunities for a first-rate education at schools like the University of Barcelona, but also the round-the-clock nightlife and international music scenes.

Since Spain holds such a high appeal as a study abroad locale, there’s dozens of colleges and universities offering international programs to foreign students. No matter your interest or degree area, there’s a place for you to learn in Spain.

Geography

Perhaps Spain is a hot study abroad locale because of its close proximity to many other European countries. A short plane or train ride away and you can find yourself sipping espresso in one of France’s famous street-side cafes, or sunning on the sophisticated shores of Estoril in Portugal.

Spain is on the southernmost tip of Europe, bordered to the west by Portugal, and to the northeast by France. If you’re interested in visiting another continent while you’re there, take a look at a map and you’ll notice how close you are to Africa! You can even take a ferry to Morocco and spend some of your time off in one of Morocco’s largest and most storied cities: Casablanca.

If you’re after beach time, Spain is definitely your ideal study abroad destination. With almost 90% of its borders surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, the Strait of Gibraltar, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Bay of Biscay, there’s no shortage of gorgeous turquoise waters to dip your toes into!

A Temperate Climate

Due to its varied geographical regions, the weather in Spain, while typically mild, gets a tad chilly in some areas, and pretty hot in others!

The northern coast is characterized by an Atlantic climate, with temperatures dipping to about 50 in the dead of winter and warming up to about 70 during the peak of summer.
The interior central plateaus have colder winters, where temperatures swing from between 5 and 75 degrees from winter to summer, with heavy snowfalls occurring. This is your area for skiing and boarding!
The Mediterranean proper climate includes the cities of Barcelona and Valencia, and temperatures here are pretty mild-ranging from about 52 to 74 degrees. A mild winter and a not-too-hot summer will definitely please students studying abroad here!
The subtropical climate of the Canary Islands means these little hotspots are fantastic to visit year-round, with temperatures hovering between 60-80 degrees during most periods.
Sports, Culture & More

Such a mild climate means that many thrilling outdoor activities in Spain are accessible year-round:

Windsurfers find the best conditions at the Strait of Gibraltar, where the Windsurfing World Championships are held each year in the early Fall. If you don’t participate in the sport, a ticket to the festivities is worth purchasing.
Soccer, the most popular sport in the world, draws hundreds of thousands of spectators each Sunday as international matches are played in Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia.
Perhaps you’re a winter sport enthusiast. Spain prides itself on being the 2nd most mountainous country in Europe, and as such, they have some fantastic slopes in Andora, Sierra Nevada, La Molina, and several other areas.
If you’ve had your fill of adventure sports, Spain’s cultural highlights are astounding. Around every corner, you’ll be delighted by art, literature, architecture and music with loads of Roman, Celtic and Iberian influences.

Before you head over (or while you’re there) be sure to read Don Quixote, the famous novel written by Spaniard Miguel de Cervantes.
Spain’s history of famous painters and sculptors is unlike any other European country. True greats such as Pablo Picasso, El Greco, Salvador Dali and Francisco Goya call this country home.

Study Abroad in France

An American Student in France

France is a part of your everyday life and you may not even realize it. And no, we’re not talking about French fries-those were invented in Belgium!

First of all, it was France that gave the United States one of its greatest gifts, the Statue of Liberty. But if that isn’t close enough to your heart, you can thank the French for the camera you use to post pics on your Facebook, the country made huge strides in photography, and even invented cinema.

There are French names all over maps of the United States, and if you’ve ever been to New Orleans, you know just how deeply the French influence can run.

What does all of this mean to you? Not much if you don’t go to France to see all it has to offer you. A study abroad program in France will not only give you an appreciation for French culture, but also a renewed appreciation for your own.

More than 15,000 students study abroad in France each year, and international students now make up 10 percent of the country’s college student population. Higher education in France is given praise around the world for its excellent teachers and research.

When you study abroad in France, you can expect to be treated the same as your native classmates, whether in a lecture or in a ‘travaux diriges,’ or seminar class.

While you can study abroad in France and concentrate on nearly any subject, it’s the students with a passion for the arts, architecture and history that flock to the country in the highest numbers. And that’s no shocker considering that France has been the center of the arts, as well as an international player, for centuries.

Students of the arts, you will literally have to budget your time given all that France has to offer:

Visit the Louvre to view the works of French artists such as Monet, Matisse and Renoir;
Read the works of such French literary heavyweights as Baudelaire, Proust and Voltaire;
Listen to the music of Debussy, or more contemporary artists like Air and Daft Punk.
France is also a prime destination for architecture students, as you will see architecture in nearly every style:

The Gothic Chateau de Chambord, built in the 1500s;
Place Dauphine was built in 1607 in Baroque style;
The post-modern housing development, Marne-la-Vallee.
History students will find that France has been where the action is for quite some time. Over the course of the centuries, it has been the stage for the most important developments in the history of mankind, including the French Revolution, the rise of Napoleon and the rise of the Fifth Republic under President Charles de Gaulle. It was also the site of the D-Day invasion of WWII.

More than an Education

From its food to its art, France is one of those rare destinations whose reality completely lives up to its reputation. And as a possible study abroad location, there is arguably no better place in the world, because the combination of educational institutions, arts and culture, and national history are second to none.

From the beaches of Nice to the Avignon countryside, the eclectic seaside city of Marseille to the historic province of Alsace, Paris is definitely not the only game in town. However, no study abroad program in France should leave out the ‘City of Lights,’ as it is truly the capital of the country:

Visit the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Museum of Mankind;
Wander the Tuileries Garden or the Parc Monceau;
Shop for French fashion by Louis Vuitton, Coco Chanel and Christian Dior.
Paris is also the center of business and nightlife, with tons of bars, clubs and restaurants, many of which are open late hours. You can dance with friends, take in a film or chat and eat at one of the many cafes.

Paris’ Le Grand Cafè Capucines is open 24/7, and it’s a great place to sample that food France is so famous for:

Don’t ask what they are, just try the foe gras, beef bourguignon or the escargot;
The country boats more than 300 varieties of cheese. Step aside Green Bay, the French are the true ‘Cheese heads,’ as they eat the most of it in the world!;
You can wash it all down with one of those fine French wines.
But just as Mom used to say, ‘Chew slowly!’ When you study abroad in France, whether eating or not, leave your sense of urgency back home! The French slow down and savor everything, not just their food. Leisure is taken as seriously as work in the country, so take your time.

If, for some strange reason, France isn’t enough for you, then you can visit nearby countries like Belgium, Germany and Spain. But there is so much to a study abroad program in France that we simply can’t cover it all, you’d better discover it all for yourself!

Study Abroad in London

Legend and Learning in London

A ‘Pukka’ (First-Rate) Education

London’s universities see over 300,000 students a year walk through their doors, including 58,000 students from overseas. The schools are prepared to deal with this type of diversity, and all their students are provided with the educational opportunities they need to thrive and grow in a diverse environment:

Class formats often encourage independent effort and allow students the opportunity for many discussion and seminar-based classes
You’ll develop cultural sensitivity and understanding while learning in your field
The variety of arts, theatre, performances and other cultural venues available in London is impressive, and almost all of them provide student rates
Much like in the United States, you can focus on nearly any field in a study abroad program in London, the capital of Great Britain. The city has been influential worldwide for centuries, whether it’s literature, art, history, business or another of your interests.

If literature is your passion, you can study the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, Jane Austen and Charles Dickens
Study the long history of the city, from the many royals that called it home to more recent players like Winston Churchill and Margaret Thatcher
Great thinkers like Charles Darwin, Sir Isaac Newton and Francis Bacon were all fortunate enough to call London home
If you’re wishing to become involved in international business, London is the principal business center for Europe and provides unparalleled opportunities for experience and growth. With unrestricted access to almost 375 million European Union consumers, it is not hard to see why so many business students are attracted to London:

‘ It’s becoming the world’s second financial capital
Currently, more than 13,500 overseas companies from more than 90 countries are based in London
The city is also home to more than 100 of Europe’s 500 largest companies
Ironically, even if you speak English, London can be an excellent place for studying a foreign language. Because of the high percentage of people there from other countries (more than 300 languages are spoken in London, and there are resident communities from more than 90 countries), there are many study abroad programs in London that offer language lessons with native speakers. You may even want to take a couple English classes to learn what it means to take the lift, mind the gap and bugger off.

Cockney Culture

Surely you are familiar with much of London’s culture, but there’s nothing quite like a study abroad program in London to help you really embrace the city. There’s much more to London than the royal family, Big Ben and high tea. The nightlife rivals some of the best nightlife in big U.S. cities, and there are more ideas on how to spend your time outside the classroom than Amy Winehouse could fit in her beehive hair monstrosity:

Art students won’t want to miss the ultra-hip Tate Modern Gallery, the world famous National Gallery and the ‘Louvre of London,’ Waddesdon Manor.
History buffs should visit the British Museum, the 900-year-old Tower of London that was built by William the Conqueror, and the well-preserved Apsley House with its Wellington Museum
Architecture fans must check out the world’s third-largest dome atop St. Paul’s Cathedral, the Gothic-styled Westminster Abbey and Shakespeare’s Globe Theater.
With Stonehenge just two hours away, you’d be ‘off your trolley’ if you didn’t take the chance to see it! From London it’s also easy to explore the ancient Roman baths of Bath, as well as the rest of Europe, especially with all of those low-cost airlines that offer quick and cheap access to most of that area of the world. But before you go running off somewhere else, be sure you take advantage of everything else London has to offer:

See all of the city from atop the London Eye, the highest observational wheel in the world
Or stay low and hop on a boat tour through the River Thames
Scare yourself silly with a visit to the London Dungeon or on the Jack the Ripper tour in the East End.
The West End is also a draw for students studying abroad in London, with its fashionable Soho and Covent Garden districts. There you’ll find theaters like the Apollo and the Palladium, not to mention the Royal Opera House and the occasional (and tremendously talented) street performer. And no visit to London would be complete without enjoying:

Afternoon tea at Piccadilly Circus (not an actual circus)
A walk down Abbey Road (and music history), made famous by one of England’s greatest exports-the Beatles
The latest trends in fashion in the Knightsbridge and Kensington districts, and the latest trends in fashion, jewelry, toys, food, gadgets, furniture and pretty much everything else imaginable in one of the largest department stores in the world, Harrod’s.
So there really is no place like London. Not for entertainment, or education, or history, or even plays, as London’s theater district out-bellows even Broadway. London has some of the best museums, attractions and buildings in the world, and students in a study abroad program in London will feel right at home in Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (the country’s oldest pub), with a plate of bangers and mash!

So there really is no place like London. Not for entertainment, or education, or history, or even plays, as London’s theater district out-bellows even Broadway. London has some of the best museums, attractions and buildings in the world, and students in a study abroad program in London will feel right at home in Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (the country’s oldest pub), with a plate of bangers and mash! Remember to book early to get cheap London hotel deals.

четверг, 13 сентября 2012 г.

четверг, 13 сентября 2012 г.