Academics
For many, it was their first trip abroad. For all, it was something they’ll never forget.
“Throughout the trip, we were able to perform in some of the most beautiful churches ever built, and to grow closer as an ensemble in the process,” said Caleb Klinzing, a graduate student in Music from Sheboygan, Wisconsin.
It was one of several Study Abroad opportunities from which students may choose during their time at Pitt State, from faculty-led trips to independent exchange programs.
Pressed for a favorite moment in Europe, Klinzing chose this one: talking with one of the organists at St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague, where the Pitt State Organ Studio students received a private tour of the main organ and were able to go inside the instrument.
The choir sang in St. Vitus Cathedral and St. Nicholas Church in Prague, in St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna, in Salzburg Cathedral in Salzburg, and in the chapel at Melk Abbey.
They took guided tours of Prague and Vienna, and of the concentration camp at Terezin.
“It was an incredibly moving, emotional experience for all,” said Professor Susan Marchant, who directs the choir and organized the trip.
The students also attended a performance of Rossini’s opera “William Tell” at the Vienna State Opera, and enjoyed group dinners in Prague, Vienna, and Salzburg that featured traditional foods of the region.
It was the first time traveling abroad for Hunter Jacobs, a senior Music Education major from El Dorado Springs, Missouri.
“My favorite moment from the choir tour was when we performed in St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna,” Jacobs said. “Getting to sing in that space, and present music from American culture to the people there, was truly the highlight of my trip. They seemed to be enjoying the experience and that made it all the better."
Other students included:
Kansas
Girard: Kendra Johnson, Caroline Kunshek
Mound Valley: Tristan Taylor
Neodesha: Sara Flessner, Chandler Goodman
Parsons: Carollyn Chapman, Marlee Mikel, Matthew Thompson
Pittsburg: Max Battaglia, Addy Campbell, Tate Campbell, Evan Harries, Jung Hee Lee, Mia Perry, Gabby Roberts
Redfield: Jacquie Hampton
St. Paul: Annabella Beachner
Weir: Shawnelle Smith
Wichita: Mary Jo Peterson
Missouri
Carthage: Jaben Parnell
Kansas City: Amber Braken
Oklahoma
Tuttle: Devon Turner
Illinois
Aurora: Matthew Stephens
Study Abroad options for Pitt State students range from one week to one academic year.
Faculty led: Faculty led programs are usually one to two weeks and consist of a set tour and excursions.
In May, students in Early and Elementary Education will explore the education system in Italy and learn how the Italian culture impacts what is valued in education.
In May and June, students from several programs will travel to Scotland to learn about the history, politics, and culture of the Scottish nation.
In June, students in healthcare programs including Biology (Pre-Med) and Nursing will travel to Belize to study healthcare in a developing nation and work as medical volunteers.
Exchange programs: These the most independent programs, as students will be an international student at another university and be immersed in the host country’s culture. Students pay PSU tuition.
Affiliate partner programs: These allow our students to study with other American students and chose from a variety of programs around the world. Affiliate companies offer support from an on-site resident director. The programs include housing and some excursions.
Financial aid, scholarship, and stipends are available.
Learn more:
