To fellow juniors, it may seem like all of your friends are off to a semester abroad in Spain, Australia, or some other exotic locale. Yet for those still on campus, unable to participate in full-semester or full-year study abroad programs due to their courses of study, finances, or simply FOMO from being away from campus for so long, that does not mean you aren’t able to have your own international adventures. Here are three alternatives at Penn to traditional study abroad programs:
1. Penn Summer Abroad
Having participated in the Penn-in-Cannes program this past May, I highly recommend the programs through Penn Summer Abroad for students looking for a shorter duration abroad program that still provides Penn credit (and is run completely through Penn, taught by Penn professors). Locations range from Athens, Greece to Havana, Cuba, and the programs also range in length from two weeks to over a month. Plus, since these programs are in the summertime, they also serve as a perfect excuse for you to arrive early or extend your stay at your destination to explore and travel. Many are also short enough that they should not interfere with summer internship dates.
2. Penn International Internship Program
Another option for spending a summer abroad is the Penn International Internship Program, which matches international employers with Penn students for a summer internship and provides funding for travel and some living expenses. Many placements are in NGOs, making the program perfect for those interested in making an impact abroad.
3. Wharton International Program
Similar to Penn Summer Abroad, the Wharton International Program (WIP) offers short-term, for-credit programs abroad run and taught by Wharton professors. Although they are focused on business topics, WIP trips are open to students enrolled in all of Penn’s schools. In addition to the summertime, WIP also offers trips during Winter Break and Spring Break. Locations change every year, so be sure to keep an eye out for the latest destinations.