Written by Parker Ladle
For many students, studying abroad is the highlight of their college experience. While providing a unique and exciting adventure, studying abroad also leads to personal and professional growth.
Communication students can enrich themselves through several specific options. Communication faculty offer several summer study abroad programs, including Communication and Media in Florence, Communication in London, Documentary Filmmaking in London, and Communication in Valencia.
In these programs, students can take courses such as Crisis Communication, Writing for Electronic Media, Writing to Persuade, Public Speaking, Documentary Production in London, Social Media Campaigns, and Media Culture and the Environment. While taking these courses, students engage with local professionals, visit various historical spots in the city, and complete real-world projects to put their learning into practice.
As students participate in these programs, they are exposed to new cultures and put outside of their comfort zone. Consequently, they become more independent, build a stronger sense of self, and develop a global perspective. Studying abroad is also attractive to employers and graduate school admissions officers because it shows an ability to adapt to new surroundings, a diverse perspective, a willingness to learn, and language skills.
Dr. Patrick Merle, director of FSU’s School of Communication, talked about the importance of studying abroad for students in the School of Communication.
“Studying other cultures and traveling to other countries is a condition sine qua non to enrich your life. It is through the discovery of what others do that we can get better, develop more understanding and stronger empathy, and become richer human beings for one another. I will always recommend studying abroad and traveling. That was the best thing that ever happened to me; it will be the best thing for you as well.”
To learn more, visit https://international.fsu.edu/ or contact Dr. Patrick Merle at pmerle@fsu.edu.