Up and away!
The study abroad program is more than just a travel tour, says George Bragues, assistant vice provost and business head. “It’s a learning experience. One day, you all will go out in the real world and face new things. This will prepare you for those challenges,” said Bragues.
Guelph-Humber’s study abroad program has 10 different tour destinations to choose from, and students from all programs at the university can sign up for it. These are a part of general electives that students sign up for the same way they would for any other course.
Germany is one of the popular tour destinations within this program. Matthew LaGrone, program head for general electives and the course director for the Germany tour, explained why this tour is more than just spending money and touring a different country. “Germany has two sides to it: the beauty, and the dark, brutal history. This course will shed light on these two different sides, and will also help them look at society and culture through a different perspective. The learning experience is different than learning in a classroom,” said LaGrone.
“I’ve been on various study tours as an instructor myself. And then to convocations, and students say that the most memorable thing about university was the study tour. Even the parents tell me that, you know, the ones who pay\may have paid for it,” said Bragues.
Psychology student Kavita Brijpaul, who went on the study tour to Ecuador, says the tour was worth all her time and money, “My course was psychology course, with nature and nurture as its theme. It is different than studying in a classroom because it’s hands on experience. We went on treks, lived in tents, had to have a flashlight for the night. We were literally living in a forest, and it was a whole new adventure.” She also said that money is also why students are hesitant to sign up for the program, but there are various bursaries available as financial assistance.
Bragues agreed that money is a significant factor which affects the turnout for the program. “Since this is an international tour, it has extra costs for facilities and travel. I was a student myself, and I have been at this stage. I know exactly how it feels,” said Bragues, “which is why we have introduced 50 bursaries to help students financially. They can visit the financial aid office and get all required details.” There is an eligibility criteria for financial aid, and all information on it and the various bursaries available can be found by contacting the financial aid office at Guelph-Humber.
More information on the study abroad program is available under the “Academic Programs” section on the Guelph-Humber website.
About the Author
Simrit Bajwa Is a journalism student passionate about writing, Beyonce, and Italian food.
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