While only 1% of all U.S. students enrolled in higher education have the opportunity to study abroad, this rare experience is made possible at Rockhurst University through various accredited programs across Europe, South America and Africa.
When thinking about studying abroad, the typical image might be spending a full semester in another country studying independently. While this is one enriching option, students have access to a range of study abroad opportunities with varying lengths and structures.
For instance, among the many emails sent out by Rockhurst are updates on study abroad trips and deadlines. One upcoming opportunity is a short-term trip to Munich, Germany, and Prague, Czechia, taking place from May 19-26. Open to all students, this trip can even count toward Wisdom Core course credits.
Also this spring, another group of Rockhurst students will travel abroad for a Field Biology trip to Costa Rica from May 12-21. Currently, about 10 students and two professors are set to attend. Group trips like this foster a sense of community among students, a key benefit of studying abroad.
“I chose the trip because it is a science credit and a great opportunity to travel with an educational purpose,” said senior Dariana Morales.
Beyond individual trips, Rockhurst maintains partnerships with Jesuit institutions across the U.S. and internationally, allowing students to earn credits toward their degrees while studying abroad for extended periods. Opportunities include Casa Mateada in Argentina through Loyola Marymount University, The Italy Center through Spring Hill College, The Beijing Center in China, Fordham University in London, St. Louis University (SLU) in Madrid and Gonzaga’s program in Zambia.
Sophomore Sarah Gilmore is currently spending a semester abroad in Madrid through SLU and has found the experience to be beneficial both educationally and personally.
“Studying abroad pushes me outside my comfort zone every single day. Whether it’s navigating a new city, striking up conversations with strangers or adapting to cultural difference, I’m constantly challenged in ways I never expected,” said Gilmore. “The biggest lesson I’ve taken away so far is to stop overthinking and adjust do it. Some of my best memories have come from saying yes to things that initially made me nervous, whether it was booking a last-minute trip, trying food I couldn’t pronounce or joining in on an experience I knew nothing about.”
Gilmore highly recommends studying abroad to anyone considering it, as it has broadened her perspective in ways she never expected. She is confident she will have no regrets, knowing the lessons she has learned will stay with her for life.
One common concern about studying abroad is the cost, but Rockhurst offers financial solutions. The Magis Exchange Program allows students to use their Rockhurst scholarships to help finance a semester abroad at a Jesuit university, where they can also engage in volunteering, service learning and internships. Additional funding options include FAFSA, International Student Loans and International Education Financial Aid (IEFA).
For more support, there are specific study abroad providers that can help ease the transition for students studying internationally. Rockhurst students can enroll in programs through organizations like the American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) or International Studies Abroad (ISA), which offer not only academic opportunities but also volunteering and internships. These organizations provide housing, excursions, on-ground support, cultural activities and connections with other study abroad students.
For more information, visit the Study Abroad page on the Rockhurst website. Study abroad advisor Paivi Bybee is also available for guidance in the Learning Center (Van Ackeren 200B) or via email at [email protected].
