To be liberally educated requires knowledge and sensitivity transcending the limits of one's own culture, and in a world increasingly interdependent, cross-cultural understanding is as much a practical necessity as an educational ideal. Communication or drama students can elect specialized programs in London, Glasgow, or Sydney, while premedical students find appropriate courses at British or Australian universities. Foreign Language students and International Studies majors benefit from living in the language and culture being studied, but proficiency in a second language is not required for many programs. Courses in English are available in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, most of Europe, and even a few in Latin America. Communication, political science, or business majors may choose an academic internship abroad to gain perspective in their discipline while strengthening their resume.
Some students studying abroad concentrate on cultural enrichment rather than their major or minor.
Require ments for most Trinity degrees leave room for a semester or even a year of electives, and at least a few courses appropriate for the Common Curriculum may be found in many programs around the world. Students should begin early to plan the integration of the degree program to include foreign study. The first year is not too early for most students to begin preliminary study abroad advising, and it is vital for students in some majors. The Registrar must approve all courses to be counted for the Common Curriculum. Scholarships and Financial Aid Pell grants, Trinity and federal loans, need-based Trinity grants, and most externally funded scholarships may be applied to approved semesters of study abroad.