Study Abroad Options Increase

EVANSTON, Ill. --- Northwestern University students have new study abroad options now that the Global Engagement Studies Institute (GESI) has expanded its offerings to fall quarter.

The GESI program, offered each summer since 2007, is now recruiting participants for its first fall study abroad. Offered through the Buffett Center for International and Comparative Studies, GESI prepares undergraduates with the knowledge, tools and experiences to take on global challenges.

The GESI program will take students to India, Uganda and the Dominican Republic during fall quarter 2014 (Sept. 15 through Dec. 12).

During their time abroad, GESI students live in homestays and gain professional experience while interning with community-based organizations in the developing world. They address issues such as public health, education, women's empowerment and the environment through social entrepreneurship and community development.

Open to students of all years and majors, GESI is a unique, credit-bearing program that combines rigorous academic coursework through intensive pre-trip training and a reflection summit with hands-on fieldwork.

GESI participants implement a community development project while working in small, interdisciplinary teams. All students receive academic training in theories and tools of community development as well as team dynamics and leadership.

Applications are being accepted now, and interested students are encouraged to attend information sessions Feb. 11 and 13 at the GESI office on the Evanston campus at 620 Library Place.