Gallagher Center cancels Study Abroad program for fall semester

USD’s Study Away program hasn’t taken a break from their travels — despite the current pandemic. The program continues to welcome USD students interested in traveling and studying at universities across the country.

Study Away is one of several programs housed by the Gallagher Center for Experiential Learning and Education Abroad. Program Coordinator Holger Oswald said study away differs from the study abroad program because it focuses more on traveling within the nation.

Oswald said these programs encourage students to travel, but on terms they are comfortable with. He said students may be hesitant to join the program, but the Gallagher Center wants them to know they have options.

“If a student is uncomfortable leaving the country right now, we still have plenty of places in the nation that they can visit through study away,” Oswald said.

Jessica Winterringer, Study Abroad and National Student Exchange advisor, said students pay the same tuition they would pay to attend USD while attending school somewhere else.

Students can also, Winterringer said, join faculty-led programs for opportunities that can be useful for classes, practicum hours and building resumes. 

Study Abroad has cancelled international traveling for the fall semester. However, they do have several events coming up for USD students and faculty. 

On Wednesday, Sept. 9 study abroad will be hosting a virtual fair. The fair will be from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. via Zoom. Students can access the link and more information while signing up on their Facebook page, USD Virtual Study Away Fair.

“We are jam packed all day with a Q&A panel, showcasing scholarship programs, words from alumni and much more,” Winterringer said. “We will be posting the recordings for students to rewatch. We really want them to be as welcomed as possible despite these changes.”

The Gallagher Center will be hosting more upcoming events including “Shock the Walk,” as well as International Education Week. Students can find information on more events like these on the Gallagher Center’s Facebook page, USD Gallagher Center for Experiential Learning and Education Abroad.