Saturday, November 24, 2007

Study Abroad Programs In Italy

Italy is popular for its rich culture, fabulous food, and diverse region. Universities in Italy are known for the quality of education they offer at an affordable price. Many students prefer to enroll themselves in different study programs with these universities. Each Italian university approaches the needs of students in a different manner. Italian study programs offer degrees and diplomas for general management or specialization. They offer courses for a duration of one or more years.

Duquesne, Gonzaga, Hamline, and Tulane are some of the popular universities that offer study programs for students from abroad.

In Italy, the Palazzo Rucellai Institute of Fine and Liberal Arts is situated in the heart of Florence city's historical center. This historical environment is considered a suitable inspirational setting for an institution of higher learning. This institute concentrates on the Florentine tradition of art. The Institute offers an accredited US study abroad program that meets the American belief of academic brilliance and higher education. Palazzo Rucellai offers individuals with an exceptional prospect of participating in the collaboration of great traditions as well.

Universities in Italy provide a full learning experience. The program and syllabus is up-to-date, practical, and challenging. It is designed and constantly redesigned to meet the needs of the aspiring students. Students can also enroll in courses relating to business, photography, literature and many more. They are all taught in English. If students have specialized in art, history, architecture, Italian language, or business, they will come across suitable programs that are designed to complement their studies. Students who are not acquainted with Italian language can take advantage of learning Italian language. Many universities train students to speak this language fluently. All the study programs in Italy include 6 to 18 (semester) credit hours. Students can accommodate themselves in student's apartments, which are shared by two or more students. Nearly all the universities conduct orientation program before or in between the semesters. They also include weekly cultural programs and access to computer labs. These management study programs may also assist interested students with visas and travel issues.

There are International Education institutes that are afflicted with abroad study programs in Italy. They offer loans as well as information relating to different programs. This is done for the very fact that it is becoming necessary for many institutions to expand their study abroad options. Many online sites provide information regarding the various study programs available.

Italy provides detailed information on Italy, Italy Vacations, Map of Italy, History of Italy and more. Italy is affiliated with Italy Travel Guide.

Studying Abroad in Russia: 5 Tips for Students

Russia offers many advantages for students planning to study abroad. The cost of living in most areas is low compared to the U.S. and Western Europe and the huge size of the country means that it offers a wide variety of cultural experiences. Russia has a long history of visual and performing arts and literature, which is represented in its many museums, galleries and theatres.

To make the most of your study abroad experience, use these tips to plan ahead:

1. Decide how to get there. The two easiest ways to study in Russia are through programs offered by their home colleges and through study abroad programs at special institutes, such as the School for International Training (www.sit.edu). Students seeking more immersion may want to study at a Russian university. The cheapest way to do this is by direct enrollment, but facilitating organizations like the School of Russian and Asian Studies (www.sras.org) offer reasonably-priced assistance.

2. Find out about credits. Work with your college or university's study abroad program to ensure your credits transfer. The best time to do this is before you enroll in a study abroad program, since transfer requirements vary from college to college. You don't want to find out at the end of the semester that your credit won't transfer! Be sure to ask how studying in Russia will affect your transcript. Will grades transfer, or just credits? Will your classes count for your general education or major requirements?

3. Choosing accommodations. The two most common accommodations for students are homestays with Russian families and dorms at Russian universities. Many families in Russia host foreign students in their flats (apartments) for extra money. This is an extremely affordable option for students and can be a great way to learn more about Russian culture and family life. If you would rather meet many Russian and international students your own age, then dorm accommodations might be a better choice.

4. Don't forget your student ID! Although prices in Russia are low compared to the West, student ID cards make cultural events like museums, theatre, ballet, and opera even more affordable. Russia is known worldwide for its performing arts scene, and with a student ID, opera tickets can cost only a few dollars! While Russian student IDs give the biggest discounts, foreign student IDs can still open the door to substantial discounts.

5. Relax and try new things. Although the language barrier can be challenging and frustrating, Russia is an exciting country full of opportunities. Remember that most people appreciate your efforts to speak their language, even if you're not fluent yet. While class is important, the experiences of a new country are irreplaceable. Try new foods, go to a concert or holiday celebration with your host family, or visit the priceless treasures in the Hermitage’s Gold Room.

Studying in Russia can be the adventure of a lifetime--take advantage of it, and don't forget to have fun. Your college's study abroad office can help you plan a successful semester abroad, and the internet offers many helpful resources, such as the excellent Transitions Abroad website (www.transitionsabroad.com), which offers many informative articles about studying and working in Russia.

Melissa Barton is a freelance writer and editor, specializing in science and travel writing. Barton studied in St. Petersburg, Russia, at the Nevsky Institute of Language and Culture as an undergraduate. Her travel writing has been published in Geotimes, Transitions Abroad, and other magazines. Visit her online at Rosetta Stones Freelancing (http://www.rosettastones.net).

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