One of the most unique graduation requirements of Asbury University is the Cross-Cultural Experience, or CCE. There are a variety of ways to fulfill the CCE requirement. One option is to study abroad. Whether it is a travel class over the summer or for an entire semester, studying abroad is a wonderful way to grow academically and spiritually.
Travel courses are classes that focus on a specific experience and location. They are usually offered in the spring and summer. During the semester, before leaving on the trip, the class will meet and have pre-departure instructional meetings.
The travel course application deadline is Nov. 1. Applicants can expect to hear back by Nov. 15. Students must then commit to their spot in the class by Dec. 1. This gives the student ample time to propose the trip for their CCE requirement.
Travel courses rotate in their availability. New courses become available depending on professor availability. For example, a new course is coming up on social justice and racial reconciliation, hosted by Dr. Zonio. This course is stateside and will connect students to a network of Asbury Alumni who are working in social work and racial justice.
Semester-long study abroad courses are also a great way to complete academic requirements in a different country. Asbury runs the Paris Semester, but there are other places students can travel. Semester opportunities include Oxford, Tokyo, Spain and Uganda. These semester programs each focus on a different discipline. Oxford is a research-based program, whereas a semester in Uganda focuses on healthcare and social work.
The goal of the study abroad courses and semesters is to cultivate the foundational beliefs of Asbury: academic excellence and spiritual vitality. Studying abroad gives the student an academic experience that is hands-on and helps them get a vision of their intended discipline being used on a global scale.
Ashley DeMichael, Director of Global Programs and Initiatives, shares her heart for the study abroad programs. Her college experience studying abroad in Italy largely influenced her walk with God.
“I hadn’t realized how much I could control, at least fake being in control of life.” DeMichael shares. “I had mastered what I needed to get approval. I knew culturally what was good and what was bad. I knew how to make people like me. Going on a semester abroad was the first time there was so much I couldn’t control. The same behaviors were not necessarily received in the same way, and I didn’t know what to do to get the same response from people or to get the accolades that I had been getting. I experienced walking with God that semester because I stopped trying to please Him with all my work.”
DeMichael hopes that travel abroad courses can be this enriching for every student who desires to learn in a new environment. Her primary hope is that every student will learn not only academically but also in empathy and compassion, which will enrich their life for years to come.
