As Ohio University (OU) students settle into their summer routines, a cohort of Bobcats gears up for a transformative semester through the university’s study away programs. Among them is Max Kornblut, a senior double majoring in history and media arts, who is eagerly preparing for the Ohio-in-LA program.
This immersive program offers Kornblut the opportunity to intern, attend classes, and engage in networking events in California’s bustling metropolis. For Kornblut, the aim is to immerse oneself in the dynamic L.A. business scene, particularly within film, television, or music industries, to discern potential career paths.
Having previously participated in study away programs in Hawaii and Thailand as part of his obligations as a Cutler Scholar, Kornblut feels relatively comfortable with the idea of relocating to a new environment. However, he acknowledges the persistent anxieties associated with venturing into unfamiliar territory.
Similarly, Sylvia Witt, a junior majoring in musical theater, is embarking on a professional internship in Ireland with the Screen Directors Guild of Dublin. Transitioning from mundane summer jobs to meaningful career-building opportunities abroad, Witt sees this experience as a pivotal step towards personal and professional growth.
While Witt grapples with the prospect of leaving the U.S. for the first time, she remains undeterred, embracing the chance to immerse herself in a new culture and expand her horizons.
For many students like Kornblut and Witt, studying abroad during the academic year may not be financially feasible. However, summer programs offer a more accessible alternative, allowing students to pursue enriching experiences without disrupting their academic progress or incurring additional expenses.
Kornblut highlights the financial benefits of participating in summer programs, emphasizing the cost-effectiveness compared to potentially extending one’s academic timeline.
Despite the apprehensions and logistical considerations, OU fosters a supportive environment for students to explore study abroad opportunities through funding support and dedicated study-away offices.
As Kornblut aptly puts it, studying abroad during the summer offers a lower-stress, lower-stakes environment, allowing students to forge meaningful connections, broaden their perspectives, and embark on unforgettable adventures.
