Your January Adventure Awaits

Does studying abroad appeal to you, but you're not sure if you want to be away from Siena and your friends for an entire semester? There's a great solution.

Siena offers winter term study abroad courses in a variety of locales that give you the chance to earn 3-4 academic credits while taking a class specifically related to the country you visit. Cultural immersion, sightseeing, new foods, new friends - all included.

Abi Cavazos, Ed.D, director of Siena's study abroad team, said an average of 40 Saints take advantage of this very do-able immersion opportunity each year.

"It's an excellent way to get a brief but intensive experience in another country, which is an impressive entry on a resume," she said. "The courses offered for each location are generally service or cultural oriented, and the feedback from students who have gone is really positive."

Applications are open now until October 4 for the next J-term (for January) as it's known. Locations include Belgium, the Czech Republic, Italy, Jamaica, Kenya and Peru. Check out the full listing and details here. Cost varies by program.

Worried about the language difference? It's all good: the courses are taught in English, and most of the people you meet speak it as well. You will, however, have the chance to try out at least a few new phrases.

Nursing major Brynn Marks '27 said she had an amazing time in Cusco, Peru this past January and would recommend a J-term trip to anyone.

"Before studying abroad in Peru, I was extremely nervous because I didn't know anyone, but I am forever grateful that I pushed past that fear and signed up for an adventure I will carry with me for the rest of my life," said Marks. "I made friends from all around the world and experienced incredible volunteer opportunities, rich history, insane hiking, nightlife, and dancing, but the people I met and the connections I made stuck with me the most."

Lowell Nugent '27, environmental studies, took a J-term trip Prague in the Czech Republic two years ago and had such a good experience, he re-upped for a second trip last January, this time to Siena, Italy. And apparently three's the charm for him, because he's headed to Brussels, Belgium for one last winter term as a Saint.

"Siena has always offered some of the coolest opportunities for study abroad, and the J-term programs are the perfect amount of time to experience a new place with new people," said Nugent. "The fun that I've had through Siena abroad has helped me make so many new friends and I would recommend J-term study abroad to anybody because it's such an amazing opportunity to learn new things and make amazing memories!"

Maddie Casey '29 said her J-term trip to Kenya was "a life-changing experience that showed me the things that matter most in life." (above)

Interested? Check out the link above, or email [email protected].