The semester-long academic programs offered by Syracuse University in cities like New York City, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., are just as valuable as programs offered overseas. Domestic abroad programs do not provide much cultural immersion, but they are imperative to students’ career pursuits and personal growth.

In collaboration with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, officials within the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs have decided to revamp the school’s semester in D.C. program, titled SU in DC. The Center for Strategic and International Studies, an international policy institution, will now host Maxwell’s semester program at its facilities.

Studying overseas provides a unique experience. Living in a foreign country is an opportunity for culture shock and immersion that young adults welcome. Depending on the experience between the student and host country, his or her time abroad can be eye opening and life changing.

But just like traveling across Europe is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, for many, traveling within the United States could be, too.

SU programs located in a major U.S. city are just as beneficial to the personal growth of students. Those experiences allow students to gain independence, a new perspective and professional experience.

Students can learn about living independently in a new city within the United States, which many will do after graduation. This opportunity also allows students to build career connections that they can maintain later in their adult life as many of the programs offer internships.

Students should not underestimate the idea of studying in a U.S. city just because it’s in the United States. These programs are just as significant and potentially more realistic for students, as they can experience more professionally minded opportunities.

While these domestic abroad programs provide students with new opportunities, they should not replace traditional study abroad programs as the two provide students with different yet equally valuable experience. The university should continue to expand study abroad programs as it expands domestic abroad programs.

The purpose of abroad programs is to experience life away from campus. That life can be as far away as Europe, or as close as one’s neighboring city.

Published on November 13, 2013 at 2:38 am

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