Getting Started - Colorado College

As a general rule, students should begin planning for their off-campus study experience at least one year in advance. Although the planning process will be different for each student, below are some suggested steps to take in each of your four years at Colorado College:

As soon as you arrive at Colorado College:

• Attend the annual Off-Campus Study Fair in Worner in September.
• Take a language placement test and think about enrolling in a language class.
• Speak with returned students about their experiences off-campus. Would they recommend their program? Would they do anything differently?
• Attend a group advising information session, usually held the second Tuesday of each block in Worner 212 at 12:15pm..

Two years in advance:

• Meet with an off-campus study advisor and begin narrowing down your options. Consider lots of options!
• Discuss your plans with your family.
• Take as many classes related to your anticipated off-campus study as possible. If you can fit more language classes into your schedule, take them!

One year to six months in advance:

• Declare a major (by the end of your sophomore year) and find a faculty advisor in your department. Tell your advisor about your plans for off-campus study.
• Complete the internal Colorado College application for approval to study off-campus. The application is due October 10 for programs that begin in the spring and February 10 for programs that begin in the fall.
• Apply to your chosen program.
• Prepare to go.

While you are off-campus and when you return:

• Consider tying your off-campus study into a senior thesis or project. Don’t forget about the Venture Grant, which may help fund a trip back to your country for additional research.
• Think about applying for a Fulbright, Watson or other grant after graduation. Deadlines for these grants fall early in senior year, so plan ahead! For more information.
• Visit the Career Center for tips on how to incorporate your off-campus study experience into your resume. They also have information on teaching internationally, internships abroad, short-term volunteer programs and overseas fellowships.
• Did your off-campus study generate new academic interests? Are you re-thinking the classes you’ve chosen, the thesis you’re writing, or your plans for life after graduation? Be sure to set aside time to discuss these concerns with your academic advisor.