Applications now available for second cohort
By Mandi Enger
Available to students of all majors, Nevada State College (NSC) has announced plans for its second study abroad program in Dublin, Ireland. The group will study at the Marino Institute of Education (MIE), an associated college of the University of Dublin, Trinity College June 7-22, 2014. To be considered for the program, students must submit an application by Jan. 24, 2014.
Study abroad experiences enrich the intellectual and personal lives of students who participate, shared Roberta Kaufman, assistant professor of the School of Education, and faculty advisor of the 2013 study abroad program. Participants have the opportunity to become immersed in another culture. They can dispel myths and learn the history that influences contemporary thinking. An international experience creates opportunity to be a participant rather than an observer.
Taught by MIE professors, the 2014 program will offer a two week, three-credit course in language learning. The curriculum will focus on historical, political, and social factors related to second language acquisition. Course content will also cover instructional considerations for second language learning in grades K-12.
Classes will meet five days a week for four-hour periods. Participants will have afternoons, evenings, and weekends free to travel and explore Ireland. Students will be accompanied on the trip by a NSC School of Education faculty member.
It was an honor to join 14 of our students during the inaugural study abroad program this past summer, said Kaufman. Students who went last year spoke highly of their experiences with primary students in the schools. Participants got to teach in a variety of schools: from private boys or girls settings, to Irish only, to Education for All schools, the equivalent of our inclusive schools. In general, they loved the beauty of Ireland and the generosity of the Irish people.
According to Kaufman, students additionally became more confident personally and professionally as they navigated through the first-time experience of traveling abroad, staying in dorms, engaging with a variety of international faculty, and interacting within a new culture.
The most influential part at Marino Institute of Education was the diversity, shared Makayla Holman, a psychology student and participant in the 2013 program. I have never experienced anything like how kindly individuals from Ireland treated us and how welcoming they were. The traveling really opened my eyes to a whole new understanding of culture. Going to Ireland really gave me a new-found respect for other cultures and other ways of life.
President of the Nevada State Student Alliance Deuvall Dorsey, commented on his experience as a student in program, the wide variety of professors kept the course fresh every day. The professors and the host campus did everything in their power to make the experience as educational and enjoyable as possible. The hospitality was second to none. They expected us to give our absolute best effort and encourage us to rise to the challenge.
The program cost of $1,808 includes tuition, fees, two excursions, and room and board. Federal and NSC financial aid may be applied. Participants will additionally be required to have passports and medical/travel insurance.
Kaufman added, I encourage students to complete the application before the Jan. 24 deadline. Get your name on the list. Really consider being a part of this unique, exciting, and once in a lifetime experience.
NSC plans to continue the study abroad program each summer with course offerings varying year to year.
For more information or to apply, visit nsc.edu/ireland.
Study abroad program to return to Dublin, Ireland in 2014
