One of the Key Learning Experiences at Elizabethtown College is engaging in a study abroad program, which is viewed as a valuable cross-cultural opportunity. It is presented as a viable choice for any student who shows interest, and is often strongly recommended for students in various majors. Many students may have never ventured outside their home country, making the idea of leaving their familiar surroundings daunting. However, the time spent in an unfamiliar environment allows students to broaden their global perspective and self-awareness. Each study abroad experience presents unique challenges and achievements for the participants.
Jaime Ramos, the Advisor for Study Abroad, highlights the advantages of studying abroad that go beyond just the affordability and institutional support. Ramos emphasizes the importance of gaining perspective in any field of study. He states, “Regardless of your academic discipline, gaining perspective is crucial. True perspective emerges when you immerse yourself in an unfamiliar environment, which is precisely what studying abroad offers. It teaches you how to adapt to unfamiliar surroundings.”
Given these considerations, prospective students often have numerous inquiries before committing to a study abroad program. Elizabethtown College addresses this need through the Study Abroad Team and Department located in Nicarry. Various departments across the campus rely on student workers to assist their peers throughout their college journey. Since 2022, the Study Abroad department, under Ramos’s leadership, has been an integral part of this support system, drawing from his own international experiences as an Elizabethtown College alum.
The student team working alongside Ramos was carefully selected based on their skills and overseas experiences, aiming to enhance the overall student experience. Layla Murphy, a member of the team since her 2022 study abroad program, serves as the social media manager and one of the two study abroad peer advisors. Alyssa Eckstein, the newest addition to the team in Spring 2023, joined after her own study abroad experience. Murphy manages the Study Abroad Instagram account and captures moments at related events, leveraging her digital media production background. On the other hand, Eckstein, an occupational therapy major, offers insights tailored to students in the same field, advocating for a more immersive experience in Italy over a city setting.
The concept of a team supporting study abroad initiatives, rather than a sole advisor, aligns with the program’s objectives. Peer advisors can offer a perspective that faculty or staff alone may not provide, drawing from their personal travel experiences. Engaging with a fellow student can alleviate the intimidation often associated with seeking advice from an authority figure, enabling students to address budget concerns, packing tips, and other queries comfortably.
In essence, the team encourages students to utilize the office resources throughout their study abroad journey. Ramos emphasizes an open-door policy, stating, “My door is always open. If I’m in a meeting and a student needs assistance, I’ll make time for them. Immediate concerns are valid, and I’m here to help.” Murphy reiterates the supportive environment, emphasizing the team’s dedication to assisting students in realizing their study abroad aspirations.
For individuals seeking to connect with students or Jaime Ramos, their contact details are available on the Study Abroad section of the Elizabethtown College website. Students can schedule either in-person or Zoom appointments directly with Jaime Ramos. Additionally, they can reach out to the Study Abroad peer advisors via email or visit during their designated office hours: Tuesday through Thursday from 2-4 pm and Fridays from 12-3 pm.