Dr. Kenneth Levine of the School of Communication Studies program will be taking students to Europe for a study abroad program that will include class instruction, group discussion and observation of communication in international businesses. 

"The primary focus of the program is to investigate marketplaces to understand commercial speech in a communication setting," Levine said. 

The program costs $4,000. The fee includes room and board, museum passes, metro passes and all fees related to the program while in Europe.  However, students are required to make their own travel arrangements and cover food and extra expenses.

The major teaching and learning experience did not come from the classroom, but from exploring the European cities we were in and the people who within the culture. C.C. Ray 

Students will attend class from 9 a.m. to noon. Afternoon hours will be reserved for various activities. Student will have the opportunity to tour museums, visit specialized businesses, explore popular tourist attractions and learn from several guest speakers who will speak on subjects ranging from real estate to fashion.

C.C. Ray participated in the program last summer and found it interesting and beneficial. 

"I enjoyed meeting with the different companies, from a purse designer to antique jewelry and trying to understand their viewpoint of business from a different culture," Ray said. "It was interesting to learn the differences of America compared to the European Union's bunsiness practices."

Many students claim that studying abroad is a unique and life changing experience.  With this program specifically, part of the experience is to understand and study cultures.  Identifying the similarities and differences of a new culture to your own is a valuable life lesson. 

"Studying abroad opens your eyes and helps you think outside the box.  Once you discover one culture, you become curious as to what else is out there.  It is a life changing experience," Ray said.

Students of all majors are eligible to participate. Studying abroad with this program is relevant for those interested in various areas from traveling and business to communication and sports. 

Students can visit the Programs Abroad office for more information on financial aid that can be applied to the program. Students receiving the Hope Scholarship are also eligible in applying those funds toward this program.

Visit the Programs Abroad Web site to fill out the first page of the application only, and turn it in to the Programs Abroad office on Melrose Ave. behind Hodge's Library. Applications for summer of 2008 are due on Feb. 29.

"Pack a good pair of walking shoes because we will explore the cities on foot. There is no better way to explore than on foot," Levine said.