History
A year after the end of World War II, a group of students at the University of Minnesota dreamed of a way in which they could satisfy their growing curiosity about the world outside the United States and simultaneously make a contribution to a better world. After many meetings with University officials who dared to extend academic approval, and after receiving contributions from several metropolitan businesses, the SPAN program was organized. The idealism of the group was obvious in the name selected--Student Project for Amity among Nations. It was further evidenced in the motto that appeared on the stationary:
"It is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness."
Four groups of SPANners from the University of Minnesota, each with a faculty advisor, traveled and studied in the summer of 1947 in one of four European countries. Since that small beginning, the program has grown to include students from 17 Minnesota institutions and has become one of the most respected study abroad programs in Minnesota. Indeed, in many respects, SPAN is unique in this country. Since 1947, over 3,000 students have shared the SPAN research experience in over 75 countries and cultures. Over 1,500 of the research projects completed by SPANners are now on display in the SPAN LIBRARY located in 654 Heller Hall, next to the SPAN office, at the University of Minnesota.
A unique independent research opportunity.
SPAN offers students a chance to travel to intriguing destinations. More importantly, the program gives students the opportunity to map out their own, unique research and study abroad experience.
How? With help from qualified academic advisors, students select a topic of their choosing to explore and research in-depth and ultimately write extensively about.
Before departure, students decide what subject they want to pursue. SPAN students gather background information, initiate professional and personal contacts within his/her host country and arrange in advance to meet and visit with experts in the chosen research area. At regular scheduled meetings throughout Fall and Spring semester, SPANners get-together with other would-be travel-mates and their SPAN academic advisor. Together the students and advisor further prepare for their summer abroad by examining the history, culture, language, and current events of the prospective host countries. Students make their own arrangements for travel and accommodations.
During the summer students spend eight to ten weeks carrying out their individual research projects. Students conduct interviews, visit with in-country experts, uncover new research avenues and document their findings. Of course, the opportunity for sightseeing, recreation, relaxation and cross-cultural exchange abounds.
After spending approximately two months in the host country, students return home and during Fall semester to organize and compile their findings. By mid-December, participants draft an initial version of their SPAN paper which is not unlike a thesis and tends to be 50-pages in length. The paper is due for completion mid-Spring semester.
Earn eight undergraduate/graduate credits.
Successful SPAN participants earn four credits for their preparatory work. The second grade (also four credits) is based solely on the paper and is assigned after two outside readers and the individual student's academic advisor review the paper. (University of Minnesota FSSP 5960 and FSSP 5970).
Special arrangements must be made in order to receive graduate credit for SPAN. Students receive fewer credits and must make special arrangements with their academic departments. Please contact the SPAN office for more information.
Minnesota's oldest, one-of-a-kind study abroad program
The Student Project for Amity among Nation's is open to students from all Minnesota colleges and universities and was Minnesota's first study abroad program. This means that SPAN students are part of the greater legacy of the program. Students act out the intentions of the founding members of the program and reflect upon how the globalization of the world had changed in the past sixty years. Thousands of SPAN alumni provide current students with endless support.
Reasonably priced; scholarships available
Every SPAN participant is eligible for a scholarship. What's more, because students arrange their own itineraries and living accommodations, this study abroad program can be more economically priced than other programs to similar destinations.
A student-run, non-profit organization
For more than fifty years, students have kept the SPAN organization alive by getting involved in day-to-day office or outreach activities, interacting with former SPANners and alumni, or speaking-up on behalf of the Student Project for Amity among Nations. In addition to helping the program survive on a shoestring, student volunteers keep the program innovative. Student volunteers and board members are rewarded with valuable career experience and leadership training.
Go places
The SPAN experience has been described as "eye-opening," and "transforming." It can have a lasting impact on the student's education and profoundly influence the participant's career path.
Apply now
Student applications are available on a rolling basis until Mid-November. Interested students are encouraged to apply early in order to ensure a position for the destination of his/her choice.