After Approval

After Approval

Academic Integration

The hope and expectation in Bowdoin's off-campus study program is that all participating students will make a connection between their studies at Bowdoin and their studies away from Bowdoin, in a way that enriches their progress toward the degree and their education in general. Study away should be far more than a break from Bowdoin. Planning in advance is essential, so that you can take appropriate courses in language, methodology, historical and political background, etc., at Bowdoin as preparation. It is recommended that you do some coursework in the language of the destination country before departure, if it is taught at Bowdoin. Generally it is expected that at least one of the proposed off-campus study courses be acceptable for credit toward the major or a coherent area in which the student has demonstrated previous interest at Bowdoin.

While studying away, many students discover new avenues of research that lead to an independent study or honors project in the senior year; or they can simply apply their new skills and share their experience in regular Bowdoin coursework. Many students report, in fact, that the difficulties of reentry are mitigated by their being able to apply their new level of understanding in their work at Bowdoin. If you are thinking of doing an independent study or honors work upon return to Bowdoin, remember to talk to possible advisors and lay some of the groundwork before departure.

Off-campus study experience may also strengthen applications for graduate schools and scholarships. You are strongly recommended to investigate all these possibilities, but as with independent studies, you should discuss them with your advisors and campus contacts before departure; without previous planning you will find it very hard to make all the necessary plans and meet deadlines at the beginning of your senior year.

Students interested in the health professions should consult Sue Livesay, Director of Health Professions Advising. The Career Planning Center can give you general information on postgraduate scholarships and grants (look out for meetings each semester); visit the CPC website for a summary. The major scholarships for which Bowdoin students apply include the Beinecke Memorial Scholarship, Churchill Scholarship, Fulbright Grant, Gates Cambridge Scholarship, Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship, James Madison Foundation Grant, Marshall Scholarship, Mellon Grant, George J. Mitchell Scholarship, National Science Foundation Grant, Rhodes Scholarship, Rotary Scholarship, Harry S Truman Scholarship, and Watson Fellowship. Most deadlines fall early in the fall of the senior year.