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General Information

In working closely with participant students and faculty, the Center for Global Engagement seeks to enhance the academic, cultural, and personal experiences available through off-campus study. Below are suggestions to help you clarify the kind of OCS experience you want and need. You should be able to answer the following questions:

  • Why do you want to participate in an OCS program?
  • How carefully have you thought out your expectations?
  • What aspect of OCS is most important to you (academics, cultural, personal)?

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  • How will your proposed OCS contribute to or complement your education at Kenyon?
  • What do you hope to gain from the experience academically?
  • What courses or subjects do you want to study?
  • Do you want to take classes in English or in a foreign language?
  • Do you have specific major or distribution requirements that must be completed while you are away from Kenyon?
  • What does your major advisor think of your plans?
  • Can you make a strong academic case for an OCS option?

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  • In what area, country, or city would you like to study?
  • How long do you want to be away?
  • How will program costs, travel, and other expenses fit with your financial plans?
  • What is your foreign language ability?

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  • Are you a mature, self-motivated, independent learner?
  • Would you prefer living and studying with students of the host country, with other Americans, or with a combination of both?
  • Do you want to live in a large city or the rural countryside?
  • Would you like a host-family experience?
  • Can you handle the details and red tape on your own, or do you prefer having someone assist you?
  • How well do you adjust to new situations?
  • How flexible and adaptable are you?

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Do you have questions about OCS in general, about particular programs, about particular countries? Some of the best resources available are right here on the Kenyon campus: Kenyon seniors who undertook OCS last year, faculty who have lived and worked abroad, and international students. They can tell you what to expect, help you ask the right questions, and give you advice about getting ready to go. In the Center for Global Engagement, you can find a list of returned OCS students, comsult their program evaluation forms, and/or meet with a peer advisor.

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