College of Liberal Arts
University of Minnesota
Twin Cities Campus
101 Pleasant St SE
Minneapolis, MN 55455

Mike's Blog

Spring Semester is Flying by...

Spring semester is almost half way over and I am starting to contemplate what I am going to do this coming summer. I have currently narrowed my options down to three choices...

I have currently narrowed my options down to three choices either return to my hometown in Rochester, Minnesota and work as an assistant manager at Cinemagic Theatres (the job I held last summer), study abroad in Toledo, Spain or attempt to find an internship in the Cities... Big decision huh?

Right now I am actually leaning toward doing a May term in Toledo, Spain in addition to working over the summer. The May term program would run through the first week of June and then I would hopefully be able to return to the States in time to still make a little cash during the summer.

Students who decide to study abroad are able to choose from a variety of study abroad programs from all around the world. There are fall semester, spring semester, full academic year, May term and summer programs to choose from. So if you don’t have the time to dedicate a whole semester abroad (which is my case) you can still experience a different culture during a three week May term or a longer summer program.

The first step to studying abroad is attending a First Step Meeting. You can check out times for a First Step Meeting at the Learning Abroad Website or by simply stopping by the Learning Abroad Office in 230 Heller Hall. After a First Step Meeting you will be able to sit down with an adviser and discuss specific programs you are interested in.

There are several advantages to studying abroad in a foreign country. From learning more about our globalized world to experiencing a culture first-hand, it is an experience that is strongly encouraged by advisers at this University. It is also valued by many employers and can be an excellent resume builder and conversation starter.

Some students may be a bit apprehensive in deciding whether to study abroad due to the nature of our economy and various financial concerns. However, I suggest simply looking into a program and you may find that it is more affordable than you thought. There are also MANY scholarships available to students who study abroad!

Until next time,

Mike

 February 26th, 2009
Picture of Mike
  • Class & major: senior; psychology, Spanish minor
  • Hometown: Rochester, Minnesota
  • Why a liberal arts degree : Before applying to the U of M I was thinking about majoring in psychology. After asking questions and researching, I learned that the U of M's program is ranked with the best. This was the most influential determinate of enrolling in the U because my focus was the quality of the education I would receive. Overall, CLA has stood up to my expectations and is helping me discover my abilities and potential.
  • My advice for a good first semester : It goes by fast, so enjoy it! Keep your door open to new opportunities, meeting new friends, and getting involved in activities. Some critial advice is to make sure to STUDY a lot your freshman year. You won't have the option to get behind.
  • Favorite hangout on campus: the big comfy chairs in Coffman
  • Favorite quotation: "An eye for an eye only ends up making the whole world blind." - Gandhi