January study abroad programs offer students once-in-a-lifetime experiences

January session—sometimes called “interim” or “J-term”—has long provided Bethel students an opportunity to break from their typical schedules and immerse themselves in a subject. For many, it’s a great time to dedicate to international study.

By Monique Kleinhuizen ’08, GS’16, content specialist

February 23, 2024 | 10:45 a.m.

Biochemistry and chemistry double-major Ben Ostlie ’25 bird-watching on the “Ecology in the Tropics” trip to Ecuador, January 2024

Biochemistry and chemistry double-major Ben Ostlie ’25 bird-watching on the “Ecology in the Tropics” trip to Ecuador, January 2024

As spring semester gets underway, 171 Bethel students are fresh off of international study trips around the globe. They’re a few credits richer, many crossing off general education requirements and taking the opportunity to immerse themselves in a culture or experience that enriches—or completely contrasts with—their majors.

Nearly half of all Bethel undergraduate students study abroad at some point. Many grants, scholarships, and loans apply to semesters off-campus—and several scholarships have been developed especially for students wishing to study abroad. For students with lots of campus commitments or tightly-scheduled majors, January is a great time to pursue an international opportunity—and gain the same amount of credits they would get on campus—without interrupting coursework or extracurriculars.

Why study abroad?

Besides being an enriching—and fun—way to spend a few weeks between fall and spring semesters, studying abroad is also an excellent way for students to invest in their future careers. Employers and graduate schools value international study for the awareness and knowledge it offers students—things that can’t be gained easily within a typical classroom:

  • Language skills
  • cross-cultural sensitivity
  • communication skills
  • analytical skills
  • flexibility
  • resourcefulness
Kate Osgood ’24 and other students on the “Medieval Worlds: Spain, Morocco, and France” trip, January 2024

Kate Osgood ’24 and other students on the “Medieval Worlds: Spain, Morocco, and France” trip, January 2024

"Every morning in Morocco, we were blessed with a traditional breakfast of eggs, olives, cheese, and bread with jams and spiced honey. The sunrise came over the mountains, and I enjoyed the view every morning on the roof of my Riad.”

— Kate Osgood ’24
Big Ben is seen in the distance as students walk through London, England, on the International Business in Europe trip, January 2024

Big Ben is seen in the distance as students walk through London, England, on the International Business in Europe trip, January 2024

"I loved experiencing and learning about culture across six different countries while growing deep relationships with other Bethel University students. This program allowed me to apply what I have learned in the classroom—and has equipped me to be a better business professional in the future."

— Sydney Roberts ’26
Students and faculty at Arthur's Pass National Park, New Zealand, on the “Science and Technology in New Zealand” trip, January 2024

Students and faculty at Arthur's Pass National Park, New Zealand, on the “Science and Technology in New Zealand” trip, January 2024

"This experience opened my eyes to the beauty of God’s creation and the importance of understanding other cultures. I will forever cherish the opportunities we had to immerse ourselves with the people of New Zealand and learn about the history of their beautiful country."

— Mara Miller ’24, biology major

How do I incorporate study abroad into my time at Bethel?

Bethel offers robust support services for students, and many campus offices, faculty, and staff are equipped to guide students in selecting and accommodating a study abroad program. Here are a few ways to get started:

  • It’s never too early to start thinking about studying abroad! From the first time you visit campus, ask questions about current students’ international experiences—and plan on off-campus study being part of your Bethel story.
  • Stop by the Office of International and Off-campus Programs to begin exploring Bethel’s signature faculty-led programs and those offered through trusted global partners.
  • Talk with your faculty advisor about your degree requirements and long-range course schedule to find the best semester, January session, or summer to incorporate a trip abroad.
  • If you require accessibility resources or academic support, connect with the Office of Accessibility Resources and Services to ask about accommodations available through programs you’re considering.
  • All Bethel students receive financial aid, and much of it can be used to offset the cost of studying abroad! Talk with the Office of Financial Aid to determine how studying abroad may impact your financial aid—or if there are additional scholarships for which you may qualify.
Josh Anderson ’24 riding in a Hägglund—an all-terrain amphibious Antarctic vehicle—at the International Antarctic Center in Christchurch, New Zealand.

Josh Anderson ’24 riding in a Hägglund—an all-terrain amphibious Antarctic vehicle—at the International Antarctic Center in Christchurch, New Zealand.

“It was amazing to interact with the culture and learn about traditions that people have been representing for centuries!”—Zoe Vang ’26, business marketing and art major on the “Medieval Worlds: Art and History in North Africa and Europe” trip. Photo taken in Tetouan, Morocco

“It was amazing to interact with the culture and learn about traditions that people have been representing for centuries!”—Zoe Vang ’26, business marketing and art major on the “Medieval Worlds: Art and History in North Africa and Europe” trip. Photo taken in Tetouan, Morocco

Expand your worldview and study abroad

 

Bethel offers over 600 international and off-campus study opportunities—including several that are fully taught and supported by Bethel faculty and many partnerships with other trusted educational travel partners. No matter your major or budget, there’s an option for you to enrich your learning through a cross-cultural or off-campus program.

Explore your options