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Printer-Friendly ModeInternational Programs prepares for London trip
January 23, 2006 —
SVSU is offering students the chance to study abroad in London this spring.
The program will run three weeks and is open to all students. Dr. Robert Braddock of the History Department will lead the trip. Students have the opportunity to gain up to six history credits. History 110: Problems in Modern History and History 220: Survey of European History will be offered abroad.
However, the trip will expose participants to more than the history of London. Students will have the ability to witness a number of political issues and cultural occurrences while overseas.
"When it comes to political issues, students will get a real sense of the plight of Tony Blair. This just cannot be avoided. The level of political discourse is higher in Great Britain than here. Britain's involvement in America's war in Iraq has caused Blair's popularity to fall, understandably," Braddock said.
Barb Cohen, Assistant Director of International Programs, said, "Students will also see how much America dominates the news - even if it does not directly link to Great Britain. It is eye opening to people that many Brits know more about our political system than we do."
Cohen went on to describe how American travelers to the UK should know that the British love to debate, and are prepared to do so.
"It is important for anyone traveling to Great Britain to understand that the British know how to separate politics from people. Americans tend to personalize everything. Here if we say something anti-government than we are un-American. Brits do not think this way," Cohen said.
Along with being exposed to a different political atmosphere, students partaking in this travel affair also will be enlightened by the countless cultural attractions of London. The trip will likely include a tour of the new Globe Theater, Houses of Parliament, St. Paul's Cathedral, and Westminster Abbey. Excursions to Oxford, Stonehenge, and Canterbury are expected as well.
"I additionally plan to tailor the programs to the students involved. If we have more criminal justice majors, than we'll make sure to take advantage of the relationship we have formed with some of the Guards at Buckingham Palace," Braddock said.
The International Office has estimated the expenses to be as follows: $2,500 for airfare and transfers, lodging, excursions, and some meals; $529 for tuition for every three credits taken; $115 for a passport; $22 for travel insurance; and $500 for food and miscellaneous. Scholarships are available and financial aid can be used.
Students that are interested should make an appointment with Cohen, and complete the necessary forms found at www.svsu.edu/studyabroad.
Cohen said, "I just think it's going to be a wonderful event. Dr. Braddock is an excellent London scholar. However, he is retiring soon, and this could be the last chance for this amazing experience."