Alhambra, Granada, Spain

Why internationalize your education?

• Take part in international studies to enhance your academic, personal and professional development.
• Experience the immensely diverse riches of the world through study, experience and activities.
• Gain an international perspective and learn to successfully function in an international environment.
• Expand your knowledge of geographical facts, elements of foreign cultures, languages and events.
• Develop a level of international knowledge necessary for understanding global situations and ideas.

Steps to Internationalize Your Education

1. Study a foreign language.
   Enrolling in foreign language courses is a great idea for internationalizing your education. The study of foreign languages and literatures is an essential part of a liberal education.  It is through the study of  language that a culture is understood.  Foreign language study can help create an intercultural and international perspective within your program of study.
2. Develop a concentration of courses in a specific region or geographical area.
   Develop a comprehensive understanding of another area of the world to complement your study of the Development of Western Civilization.  The study of different world areas can provide you with a framework for understanding global issues with an international perspective.
3. Enroll in courses that have an international focus.
   Many departments offer courses with substantial international content.  Check the courses listed for your major and ask  your academic advisor to assist you with course selection for your particular area of interest.   Such courses may focus on historical or contemporary topics, a comparative or critical analysis of issues, or social or scientific views of policies and practices in other countries.
4. Study Abroad during your junior year.
   Spend eight or nine months living and learning with students in another country.  Experience the lifestyle of another culture. Travel to new destinations.
5. Read fiction and nonfiction literature about other countries and cultures.
   Whether in the original language or in translation, there is an abundance of interesting literature from around the world addressing a wide variety of issues, time periods, and cultures.
6. Read international newspapers at the library or through the internet.
   The library has a selection of newspapers from other countries as well as American newspapers and other publications that focus on international issues.  Newspapers from around the world can also be read via the internet.  Reading about current events will inform you about important issues in other countries as well as alternative views on global issues.
7. Watch movies or travel videos from and about other countries.
   Many fine foreign films have been made available to audiences in the U.S.  There are also a number of American movies and videos about other peoples and places.  In addition to your international studies, films can assist in offering insights into foreign cultures and languages.
8. Visit museums with international collections.
   Museums in Boston and New York offer some of the best fine arts collections in the world.  The RISD museum also displays interesting works of art.  By visiting museums, you are able to view valuable art and artifacts from different cultures and time periods.
9. Explore the internet for resources on other countries or cultures.
   The internet provides information on books, movies, maps, country and culture information, etc.  The internet  is an easily accessible resource for international and global facts.
10. Talk to students and faculty members who have lived in other countries.
    A large number of the Providence College community have lived and studied in other countries.  Seek out such individuals and talk with them about their international experiences and perceptions.