Study Abroad

The Gustavus education program values the learning that comes from experiencing new cultures and unique perspectives. We provide opportunities in alternative educational settings in order to enable our students to expand their understanding of communities, cultures and school settings.

January Term Away

Education majors are encouraged to participate in January term courses that will immerse them in a broad range of experiences. Many January courses offer opportunities to explore the culture of different countries and are valuable learning experiences for future teachers who will be working with a range of individuals. In particular, the January course: ‘Education, healthcare and poverty in Peru – A service learning experience’ will enable students to teach English in Chimbote, Peru, and immerse themselves in the life of this South American community. Other education-related courses may be developed in the future. Interested students should visit the Center for International and Cultural Education and check out their website at http://gustavus.edu/cice/ for further information and registration procedures.

Student Teaching

Currently Gustavus students are given the opportunity to apply to student teach in an international setting or an alterative domestic site. Following an application process and an interview, 5 - 6 students will be selected to complete the second half of their student teaching at these sites. Gustavus education majors in good standing are able to apply to student teach in Sotegrande, Spain in the fall semester and in Barrow, Alaska, in the spring. The Spain setting places students in an International Baccalaureate school within the Spanish culture, with all teaching conducted in English. The school placement in Barrow, Alaska, enables students to work with the Inuit people and experience life on the edge of the Arctic Ocean. A site in New York City was added in the fall of 2011. Students interested in student teaching in these alternative sites are encouraged to apply the semester prior to their expected student teaching semester.