As a service to the international community we at CIEE have begun a series of essays to address hot topics in study abroad. Our ideas are not the only valid ones but are meant to increase the awareness of issues present in international education today.

Our first essay, "How Are We Doing" addresses topics surrounding student goals, increasing community engagement while abroad, increasing pre-departure, on-site, and return programming, and re-thinking policies on grades and grading.

To read the complete first essay, please click here.

Our second essay deals with standards. There has been a good deal of buzz around standards lately. We believe that standards need to be substantive and commit providers to specific qualities and services.

To read the complete second essay, please click here.

Our third essay deals with the reality of today’s study abroad student in relation to dress, attitudes, and behavior, and how that affects, sometimes negatively, their cultural engagement abroad. We believe that by beefing up preparation and guidance related to cultural awareness before a student departs, our programs and outcomes will be stronger and more positive.

To read the complete third essay, please click here.