Letter from the Director

Dear Prospective Student,

If you decide to study abroad, you will probably discover that it will provide you with the best learning experience you'll ever have – academically, culturally and professionally.

Southern Miss is committed to preparing all graduates for success in today's interdependent global village. Therefore, we offer a variety of programs so that virtually any student can study abroad, regardless of major or minor. Study-abroad offers you a chance to acquire the international experience so vital in today's interconnected world – thereby enhancing your resumé– while you earn credit toward your Southern Miss degree. Moreover, you'll have opportunities to visit historic landmarks you've always dreamed of seeing and to participate in another culture as you learn about local traditions.

Our programs are designed to encourage interaction with locals and to ensure that you're learning with all your senses. Imagine viewing Spanish history through magnificent works of art at the Prado, or feeling Hemingway's "A Moveable Feast" come alive as you stroll through the avenues of Paris. Whether you're improving your foreign language skills or learning variations on your native tongue, the vernacular of internationalism you'll acquire will last a lifetime.

But perhaps the greatest reward you'll reap is the personal satisfaction that comes from having successfully navigated new cultural and geographic terrain, and the newfound assurance that no matter what comes your way, you're well equipped to cope. After all, you've managed to negotiate train systems throughout the world and flourish in an academic climate unlike any you've experienced before.

You'll forge lasting friendships you'll treasure forever. Learn more about yourself and your culture as you interact with citizens of another. And you'll undoubtedly come home with a respect and appreciation for your host country rivaled only by that for your homeland.

Join us!
If you are like most Southern Miss students who have participated in credit-abroad programs, you'll say it was the best learning experience you've ever had. We hope you'll join them.

Sincerely,
Susan L. Steen, Ph.D.
Director