Commonly mistaken as a “trip,” the three-week-long Winter Term programs offer more than, if at all, a luxurious vacation with endless time for rest and relaxation.

January is only five months away, but there is still time to sign up for an “experience of a lifetime,” Dean of International Programs Laurence Basirico said as he encourages students to apply for Winter Term study abroad programs.

There is still availability because programs were never filled in the spring, and wait lists continue to drop in numbers. With the date for final refunds set for September 17, decisions and acceptances will be made by the second to third week in September.

From learning about French art history in Paris to island legends in Guam, there is much to discover around the world. Is Hawaii a nation or state? Explore the answer to this question in the hot sun of the islands. Study for three weeks in London or learn about Scandinavia in the Modern World. See what Spain has to offer in their program about Christianity, Islam and Judaism.

It is important to stress that there is still time to apply; however, the programs with waiting-lists are most likely closed, according to Dean Basirico. You will have a better chance of getting a spot in a program that is still open. A few programs that have waiting-lists include Australia, Brazil, Costa Rica, New Zealand, Ireland, Italy, Barbados, Peru and Guatemala.

Most students come out of spending Winter Term abroad with many stories and memories. Students learn to adapt to different environments, customs and cultures.

“You have to live their lifestyle,” said senior Kevin Loudy sharing his experiences from Costa Rica in January 2007.

The time might be short, but it’s nothing less than sweet. “I felt adapted to the country and culture,” Loudy said. “I could have easily stayed longer and l learned more.”

Elon offers so many unique programs that anyone with an interest for art, culture, World War II, a fascination for language, or simply exploring another part of the world. Going to a foreign land, learning and being able to practice a different language is half of the experience. The other half is getting to learn the culture and interacting with the natives.

“The culture was very different from ours even though there wasn’t a language barrier,” said Amanda Brown, a sophomore who studied religion in London last year. “You had to be receptive and aware of what the differences were so you could learn from them.”

Perceptions of both people and places can be changed in an instant; as well as appreciation for cultures different from your own.

“It is an experience you will appreciate for a long time, it will change the way you look at life,” Loudy said.

There is only so much one can say about their experience studying abroad, but it is up to you to live that experience and make it your own. Visit the Isabella Cannon Center for International Studies on first floor Carlon or www.elon.edu/e-web/academics/cannon/ to get more information on how you can receive the best experience out of your Winter Term study abroad.

Reporter: Krista Montes De Oca - 09/05/07