It’s no secret that immersion is one of the most helpful methods to learning a language, and what better way to immerse yourself in your target language than spending time abroad?
Though it might be scary to think about going to a country you’ve never been to before and that speaks a language you aren’t as familiar with, never fear! Reed has many opportunities (and information on so many more) to get out there, see the world, and learn.
Take part in a year or semester-long study abroad!
This is obviously a huge time commitment, but did you know that 43% of Reedies study abroad (or at least away from campus)? Chances are you could become a part of that statistic! I would highly recommend talking to an advisor if this is something you’re interested in.
If spending so long away from campus during the school year isn’t your thing (me too), you’re in luck! There are plenty of summer opportunities to take advantage of.
You can definitely find these within the language department, but see if any other disciplines you are interested in have programs abroad! If the Reed website doesn’t list anything, it never hurts to ask a professor.
To see if a department lists any opportunities:
Reed Website → Academics → Departments → [Department of Choice] → [typically “Department Programs,” “Summer Programs” or “Study Abroad”]
I found an international 2-month summer theatre intensive through the website and doing it is one of the best decisions I’ve made. Even though it was not a language-centric program, I still was able to gain, if nothing else, familiarity with languages I had no prior experience with.
For graduating seniors… I’d recommend checking out the Critical Language Scholarship, which is nationally competitive.
There are only a handful of languages offered, but you never know, your next language could be on the list!
Funding!
Traveling is expensive, I know. But Reed has money, and there’s a good pool of that set aside for students like you (!) to use for programs like these.
Of course, feel free to send me an email if you are curious about the process of applications for these programs and funding for them, and I’ll do my best to help you or refer you to someone who can.
TL;DR: Travelling is fun and a great way to learn languages! Reed has opportunities for you! Hey, it never hurts to apply – see where the road takes you.