These students would reduce the burden placed on the OIP staff members while ensuring that the students interested in studying abroad receive the appropriate information. The Role of the Department All of the departments at Penn must begin to play a fundamental role in their students' study abroad process. Frequent communication between departments and the OIP is crucial for departmental awareness of the existing study abroad programs. Departments, in conjunction with the OIP, should develop a list of both Penn and Non-Penn study abroad programs which they recommend. They should publicize these programs in their office as well as in information pamphlets and mailings for majors.
Some students find that studying abroad conflicts with their undergraduate requirements.
Every department must work with interested students to find a study abroad program that is feasible. It should be possible for every Penn student to study abroad, no matter what their major, for a summer, semester, or year. As various faculty travel or teach in foreign countries, they should investigate study abroad options for students. Departments should create and maintain contacts with people in foreign universities with such a goal in mind. Professors should help students benefit from their own international academic community.