First Generation Students

To get started, all students should make an academic plan that matches their academic goals. Find out what classes are required to complete your degree when they have to be taken, how long it will take to execute this plan, and where you can fit study abroad or away into all of this. On a study abroad or away program, you can receive major, minor, core, or elective credit - it really is up to you what you want to get out of the program and do with your time away.

Next, start exploring the different Global Opportunities at Santa Clara.

Be sure that you choose a program that matches your academic, personal, and professional goals.

• Does the program offer coursework in your major/minor? Or coursework that will count toward CORE credit?
• Does it offer internship or research opportunities if that’s what you’re looking for?
• What about an opportunity to practice your language skills?

You should choose a program not only because it’s in a place you desire to go to, but one that will serve you academically, personally, and professionally - this way you are sure to get a well-rounded experience! 

The most important factor to consider when choosing a global program is how it will serve your personal, professional, and academic goals. Once you have browsed program options and have picked some countries or programs you are interested in, you should think about what role your identities might play in your abroad experience. Here are a few examples of the questions you should explore: 

• Where do I want to study abroad (country, city, region)?

• Do I want to choose a program that will work well with my major?

• What courses will I be able to take abroad?

• How will study abroad fit in with my major or course requirements?

• Should I save some elective credits so that I can choose a program based on its location, or should I look at programs for their course choices?

• How long do I want to study abroad (full semester, full year, summer session, short-term program)?

• When should I begin the application process? See our general timeline below to aid in your planning

• How can I explain the benefits and safety of study abroad to my family?

• How will I know if I’m on the right track in the planning process?

Talking to your loved ones about study abroad or away can be a subject that may require some timing and planning. Coming to study at Santa Clara University might be the first time that you have found yourself away from your loved ones and they may be concerned about you going even farther away from them by studying in another city, state, or country.

If you find yourself a little bit nervous about talking to them, know that you have all the resources you need, including academic and financial planning information, to support your argument about why you want to study abroad or away and how you’re going to do it.

We even have a Family Resources section of our website that you can share! 

You can let them know that it is going to complement your studies at SCU and open up new academic, personal, and professional opportunities for you. And, you can explain that financial aid goes with students who receive it.

If they are concerned about the location that you are going to, be sure to do your research and let them know some reassuring facts about the place. You should also let them know that you will have on-site support by staff and that you will be with other students as well. These are just some of the many points you can use to enhance your conversation with your loved ones about study abroad or away.