Abstract:

This is a report on the Brazil study abroad experience leading a study abroad. It is a unique and wonderful experience especially as one assesses the opportunity and experiences to which students are exposed. There truly is no substitute for first-hand experience. From a faculty perspective, there are many logistics involved in conducting a study abroad. This report provides an overview of our experiences from the pre-planning phase to post-travel duties. We review the academic as well as the tourist and cultural aspects of the trip and we provide an overview of some of the problems encountered and how they were resolved.

The content area described in this paper is video games and entertainment, but the lessons learned can be applied to any study abroad. The paper describes challenges in recruiting, safety, finances and reporting as well as the use of guest speakers, bulletin board discussions and interaction with local students. So many have asked about our experience, our hope is to provide a bit of guidance for others who desire to undertake such an endeavor.

Keywords:

Study abroad, globalization, video games, international entertainment.