The Preparation Semester

The period of preparation before going abroad is the most difficult, and in many ways, the most important.  SPAN prides itself on the rigorous training it requires of students before going abroad -- approximately 40 hours of outbound education (for which students receive 4, 5000-level credits).  The preparation semester begins as soon as students enter the program and ends mid-May.  Students meet one-on-one with their advisor.  Additionally, they attend three orientation sessions and frequent country group meetings. Group-meetings help the students learn about the country, its customs, history, geography, art, literature, languages, politics, economy and people. These group meetings also help students develop their projects and begin their research, make travel arrangements including transportation and housing abroad, establish contacts or methods of contacting people in-country, become acquainted with one another and the advisor.  

Group meeting times and locations are decided by the advisor and the students jointly; it is highly recommended that groups meet at least twice per month for a minimum or two to three hours per meeting.

The SPAN setting is unlike the ordinary classroom. As SPAN is a student-run program, students initiate, plan and carry-out many of the activities during the preparation semester.   The advisor assists students in developing research skills, planning logistics, and acquiring cultural competency, but students are mostly responsible for their own learning.  It is important that students choose projects that they find exciting and engaging so that they can pursue them for two full academic years.  

Summer Abroad

Students are expected to remain in-country for at least 8 weeks during the summer.  The exact dates will vary by group.  Some groups are in country at the same time, while others are more variable. The schedule for the summer is very flexible. Since there is no classroom time, students spend the majority of their time abroad working on research.  Students are encouraged to find an internship or volunteer position related to their project if possible, though this is not required.  There is also plenty of time to travel, sight-see and relax.   

The Return Year

The return year consists of individual meetings with the SPAN advisor and the two readers.  Students are also required to attend the Tell-a-Bration, a return meeting which focuses on getting started on the SPAN paper.  The first draft of the paper is generally due following winter break, with the near-final draft being due after spring break. 

Throughout the SPAN Experience 

Students take on a leadership role within the organization.  During the first year, students are matched with a committee (publicity, finances, program, or alumni).  Students truly get what they put into the program.  Successful Executive Board and committee members are the most likely to complete their SPAN theses. Additionally, they are rewarded with valuable career experience and lifelong friends.  For more information about example committee placements, contact the SPAN office.