Going Abroad Opportunities
"The friends made, cultural myths
vanished, and lessons learned
opened my eyes to realize how
similar we are as humans and
how connected we will be in
the future. I used this unforgettable experience to complete my
Global Pathways Certificate. Study abroad benefits are countless…"
Li Pon,
Global Pathways Certificate in International Development,
International Affairs and Political Science Major
Interpreting the complexity and interdependency of world issues and events that shape our world is an essential part of social and professional development. Being able to recognize diverse world views is also key to graduates’ future success. The Florida State University provides many opportunities for students to go abroad and develop global competencies.
Beyond Borders offers a unique exchange program that is an alternative
to traditional academic study abroad programs and provides students
with short-term, rich cultural learning experiences through immersion
in the target cultures.
Students interested in immersing themselves in different languages and cultures through international or intercultural research, study and service may be eligible for fellowships and scholarships.
The Florida State University recognizes the importance of preparing students to be successful citizens in the global society of the 21st century, and supports international study and intercultural experiences as an integral part of the academic, social and cultural development process of a university education. A policy has been developed and adopted to ensure the safety and security of all students participating in international experiences. In addition, the policy attempts to ensure that all international programs are academically and culturally enriching experiences.
Students who want a sustained international experience can review the many options that meet the Global Pathways Certificate Requirements.
The Office of Undergraduate Research and Division of Undergraduate Students, in partnership with the Division of Student Affairs, has launched the FSU Global Scholars program to dramatically increase the number of FSU students who volunteer, intern, and/or conduct research in the developing world. The program offers unique experiences that challenge students through immersive service opportunities in developing communities. The Global Scholars Program hopes to cultivate active citizens of the world who can engage with different cultural perspectives, lead fulfilled lives, and make a positive difference for others.
In this era of globalization, an education frequently requires more cultural exposure than can be had studying only at The Florida State University. The Florida State University faculty and students can participate in established International Exchanges.
International Programs has over 50 years of experience in providing students with extraordinary study abroad opportunities. Through challenging academic programs, students can study in more than 20 global locations.
International and intercultural internships are remarkable opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students to work within organizations while at the same time earning academic credit. Internships offer students not only incomparable career experience, but more intense cultural interaction.
The Center for Leadership and Civic Education is committed to educating engaged citizens who will impact their communities at home and abroad. Sustained service is one way to serve in the community while gaining experience related to personal, professional, and academic goals. Sustained international service experiences vary in length from one week (FSU Alternative Breaks) to one semester (Moellership Program). Students who choose to participate in sustained service can serve across the country and around the world at a wide variety of non-profit agencies.
The US Department of State has many resources for students traveling abroad, including what travel documents you need, how to find the nearest embassy, what to do in an 
emergency, how to obtain travel insurance, recent travel warnings and important information on conditions. Specific visa requirements for each country are available under 'Travel Docs' at the link above. Note that you may be required to make a personal appearance at the appropriate consulate to obtain a visa. Sponsoring programs at The Florida State University can also provide participants with guidelines for obtaining a visa in a timely manner.
Also review: Returning Home After Your Experience Abroad: Challenges and Solutions. Returning home after your experience abroad can be challenging. The re-entry culture shock may be even more “shocking” than the culture shock of your host country/culture. In order to help you re-adjust to your life back at The Florida State University and Tallahassee, we have prepared this information to help you ease your way back into your home-community.