What is a study away program in college?

I've heard about study away programs at NYU and other places, but I'm not entirely sure how they work. What are these programs like, and what are the benefits of participating in one during college?

A study away program refers to an educational program or course that enables students to study in a location away from their college's main campus. While this typically means international study abroad programs, it can also include domestic programs in different parts of the country.

The structure of these programs can vary widely. Some courses might last for a few weeks during the summer, while others might span an entire semester or a full academic year. The studies might be in a variety of disciplines, from language immersion programs to specific academic topics that benefit from the local context.

Participating in a study away program can have several benefits. One of the most significant is the opportunity for experiential learning—actually living in a different culture or region can provide a much broader and deeper understanding than simply studying about it in a classroom. Programs can also offer specialized courses that might not be available on the home campus. Additionally, study away programs can help students develop valuable soft skills, such as adaptability, independence, and intercultural understanding.

For example, New York University's (NYU) study away program includes options for students to study at a number of global academic centers and partner universities. This allows students to immerse themselves in a new environment while still progressing in their academic studies.

It's worth noting, however, that study away programs can be demanding. They often require additional planning, including understanding the costs involved, getting necessary visas (for international study), and arranging for housing and transportation. Additionally, being away from one's familiar campus and support network can be challenging for some students.

Before enrolling in a study away program, it's important for students to do some research to understand the specific requirements and benefits of the program and how it would fit into their overall academic plans. But for many students, the rewards of the experience can far outweigh the challenges.