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Study Abroad:

A Semester in Paris, France

Submitted to: Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society

Date: 14 April 2008

Asha Gwin

Student, Slippery Rock University

1 Morrow Way

Slippery Rock, Pennsylvania 16057

Table of Contents

Section Title

A - - - - - - - - - - - Project Summary

B - - - - - - - - - - - - - Introduction

C - - - - - - - - - Description of Program

D - - - - - - - - - - - Task Breakdown

E - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Budget

F - - - - - - - - - - - - Qualifications

G - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Conclusion

H - - - - - - - - - - - - - - References

Project Summary (A)

Study abroad programs have increased significantly over the past decade, with more than 191,000 American students taking advantage of the opportunity to travel overseas to continue or enhance their education. This proposal is requesting the amount of $11,773 in order for myself to participate in a study abroad program in Paris, France through American Intercontinental University. The courses run from June 1 until July 4, 2008, and will improve my learning and understanding of fashion journalism, which is my ultimate career objective. In addition to taking classes, I will be conducting research as well as working with boutiques and shops to fully understand fashion and trends. I plan on spreading the word to other students and individuals that a semester abroad will not only broaden educational horizons, but also develop a better understanding of the world in which we live.

Introduction (B)

It is often a common misconception that in order to study abroad, one must have a major in a foreign language. In fact, only 7.5% of students who study abroad major in the culture that they are studying within (IIE). With a semester or two abroad, one can not only experience the educational side of a different culture, but also receive personal enlightenment as to how other cultures perform day-to-day activities. The amount of international students studying in the United States is significantly higher than that of American students studying internationally. These statistics need to change, and American students have to realize how important a semester abroad can be to both their lives and their career.

I feel that this program is necessary for myself to further develop my knowledge while experiencing a different culture and country, while also building my skills to employ after graduating college. I also want to encourage other students and individuals to travel the world, and make them aware that there are many chances for them to do so. There are still not near enough students who take advantage of this remarkable program to build their résumé and possibly receive a better job after studying overseas. The facts show those who study abroad are more likely to be hired over those who have not gone overseas ().

Description of the Program (C)

If funded, my programs of study would be fashion journalism and fashion photography, both offered in Paris, France. As I mentioned, the programs begin on June 1, 2008 and last until July 4 of the same year. The courses and program follow the curriculum of an American institution, and I will have access to many cultural enhancing programs such as:

o Walking tours throughout Paris and boat cruise on the Seine River

o Cultural activities weekends

o Passes for the Paris Metro subway system

o Passes for French National Museums

o On campus computer lab

o Travel advice and resident advisor

The fashion journalism course consists of

o Writing, interviewing and editorial techniques

o Public relations and fashion advertising

o Understanding of the different types of journalism

o Project: writing an article with accompanying visuals for a magazine which will be presented to the class

The fashion photography course consists of

o Learning and experiencing location photography in the heart of the fashion world

o Using models and landscapes for skills and techniques

o Begin and work on a photography portfolio

o Classroom work consists of applied workshops covering many aspects of fashion, styling and location

The university also offers organizations and programs committed to getting the word out about programs abroad, in which I plan to join. Also, upon returning to the United States, I plan on joining on-campus organizations and participate in programs to assist students wishing to learn more about studying abroad.

Task Breakdown (D)

As a student in France, I will be required to not only study, but also work within in the fashion world. I plan on applying for a possible internship at a French magazine or newspaper, to further my journalism skills. I may also apply to a private boutique or shop to develop a personal relationship with designers and again to develop understanding in fashion. While working at these places, I will be required to attend fashion shows and gallery openings, which will again further my knowledge for the business of fashion. Research will include:

o Understanding of styles over past decades

o Upcoming trends

o Being able to maintain a successful eye for fashion

o Praising designers who showcase a good understanding of fashion or criticizing designers in a non-demeaning way

o Writing in a way that is appealing to all demographics not just the French fashion audience

As I had mentioned, I also plan on attending conferences for students who study abroad as well as joining organizations to help other individuals understand how important it is to be culturally diverse. I plan on talking to my peers and other students about how studying abroad can give them an advantage over others, especially when it comes to applying for a job or getting a career. I think that it is also important to inform people about financial aid available for those who wish to study abroad, so that they know that it is possible to get funded for such a mission.

Budget (E)

Because American Intercontinental University is ran as an American institution, the cost breakdown is similar to those at a regular college. The entire cost for the semester is $11,773, and is broken down as follows:

Tuition, registration, housing, utilities, security $8,354.00

Meals, personal expenses, cultural activities 2,000.00

Application fee 75.00

Transportation to Paris 1,144.00

Textbooks & supplies 200.00

Total $11,773.00

The total amount will be divided as planned. As the amount gets sent directly to me, I will immediately pay the tuition and travel costs to ensure my position at AIU.

Qualifications (F)

Upon high school graduation in 2004, I attended Kent State University, where I studied fashion merchandising for a year. I then transferred to Butler County Community College for three semesters, majoring in English. I then began classes at Slippery Rock University where I currently attend, with a major in professional writing. I had a minor in French for the past two years, and I have been steadily taking French classes since my freshman year in high school. As of right now, I am currently working on a “mini-magazine” for a research course I have, which is a fashion critique and advice column, which I hope to use in my professional portfolio. I am a senior at Slippery Rock University, and my cumulative grade point average is 3.4.

I feel that I am qualified for this semester abroad because of my ability to adapt to my surroundings and adjust accordingly. Attending three different schools within my college career gave me a better understanding for my own culture, in addition to customs performed by other people. Although Paris may come as a culture shock at first, I am confident that I will become accustomed to the French culture and way of life that I so desperately want to experience.

Conclusion (G)

My research into this topic has provided me with evidence that not as many American students take advantage of study abroad programs as there should be. I am wishing to be one of the minorities, expanding my knowledge and experience in another country. I am looking forward to informing other students about my experiences abroad, if I am giving the proper funding for going. I am looking forward to your response, as well as communicating with you about possibly altering the overall plan.

References (H)

American Intercontinental University. Course descriptions.

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Study Abroad Research. .

Study Abroad Student Guide.

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American Intercontinental University. Tuition and fees.

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