General Studies Students
Every Columbia
student should give serious consideration to studying overseas. Whatever career
you choose, international opportunities will expand enormously during your
lifetime and the experience you gain through study abroad will prove
invaluable. Achieving cultural literacy in another country -- some substantive
understanding of another perspective on the world -- will moreover deepen your
understanding of yourself, your own society, and your values. That is what a
liberal arts education is all about.
Study abroad for academic credit requires advance planning, careful research, and attention to deadlines and school policies. Your GS advisor in the Dean of Students Office will help you think about how to integrate a study abroad experience into your academic plan of study. Please discuss your interest in study abroad with your GS advisor, who will counsel you on next steps to take as you explore this educational opportunity. We also advise you to attend a general study abroad information session, held each semester, to learn more about international study opportunities and the application process.