Katie Ott
Disability in a Diverse Society: Ireland Program:
Studying Abroad is an opportunity to be immersed in different cultures while learning about yourself through real-life experience. The RCPD in collaboration with the Office of Rehabilitation and Disability Studies (ORDS) offers an innovative four-week program in Dublin, Ireland that provides a unique opportunity to increase awareness, sensitivity, and understanding of various aspects of disability in the U.S. and abroad. This program allows students to travel to Ireland in June with a group of new friends, experience life-changing service learning set in a beautiful, green, country, thought-provoking content, and provides the chance to engage in future careers with a new perspective on disability. This program appeals to students with and without disabilities, and from a wide range of majors (Urban Planning, Pre-professional programs, Education, Engineering, Journalism, Psychology, Human Development and Family studies, and more). Please note that this program has a limited number of spots. Apply online now!
Of course, there are numerous study abroad programs that could pique your interest. Please contact the RCPD to discuss potential programs, along with accommodations that you may need while abroad. This should be done early in the spring semester in order to fully prepare for traveling abroad and take care of any necessary accommodation-related planning well in advance of your departure.
Of course, there are numerous study abroad programs that could pique your interest. Please contact the RCPD to discuss potential programs, along with accommodations that you may need while abroad. This should be done early in the spring semester in order to fully prepare for traveling abroad and take care of any necessary accommodation-related planning well in advance of your departure.
Additional Key Points to Keep in Mind:
Accommodations for various types of disabilities can be made for students on many MSU programs. Spartans WILL go abroad—that means YOU.
Connect with your RCPD specialist – Discuss potential programs and determine what accommodations you will need to successfully participate. Keep up-to-date on spring workshops through the RCPD, Office of Study Abroad, and Office of Financial Aid on how to accommodate, fund, and take advantage of your study abroad experience.
Plan ahead – Visit the Office of Study Abroad (OSA) website for more resources, information and ideas on what to consider when selecting a program.
Include your family – Talk to them about the process and how study abroad will benefit you. Use information online to help with the conversation.
Become a Well-Informed Traveler – Going Abroad: A Guide for Americans with Disabilities is a great resource as you prepare to go abroad and have a successful experience.
Visit the Office of Study Abroad (OSA) Resource Room – Located in the International Center. Peer Advisers are available Monday through Friday in Room 108 to help answer your questions and find a suitable program to match your personal interests and needs.
For more information contact RCPD Study Abroad Coordinator, John Pedraza, on accommodating your study abroad experience or to connect with a student from last year’s program.