Admins. review study abroad

The analysis may lead to cutbacks for several study abroad programs. Administrators are evaluating and reconsidering all study abroad opportunities -- a process that could result in cuts to certain programs. Improving the international experience -- both on campus and abroad -- has been a top goal of the 21st Century Project, and this semester those ideas are beginning to crystallize. International Programs Director Joyce Randolph explained that a 13-person faculty committee is conducting intensive research of all study abroad programs, beyond the "constant flux" that is routine within her office. "Cuts are not going to happen across the boards," Randolph said. "But this attention is necessary to make recommendations, explore our options and reconsider specific programs." Last year, faculty members began the process by reviewing two segments of the program -- French- and Spanish-speaking countries. They will present their report to Provost Stanley Chodorow and the Office of International Programs within the next week. The second investigation, focusing on Italy and Middle Eastern countries, has just begun and might not be completed until next year. Rudolph said the review process is "long and drawn out," but crucial. International Programs Assistant Director Geoffrey Gee said the research is necessary to evaluate the "academic objective" of each study abroad program, while also responding to each school's preferences. "What students want -- and more importantly what departments want -- must be considered in this drawn-out process," Gee said. "Eventually all study abroad programs will be reviewed, but it is going to take awhile." Gee added that the ongoing process is especially crucial, because the number of students studying abroad has steadily increased over the past 10 years. According to a national survey, the number of people participating in foreign-based programs increased by 10.6 percent last year. Chodorow is also focusing on increasing the number of Penn's international students and visiting faculty from abroad. Currently, there are roughly 2,650 foreign students at Penn -- approximately 850 undergraduates and 1,800 in graduate and professional schools. "Not every student will have the opportunity to study abroad, but they should still be able to have the international experience while at Penn," Randolph said. "If we continue to attract an international community, this school will become more and more diverse."

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