Every year, the Los Rios Community College District allows students to have the opportunity to swap lifestyles from Northern California to countries such as England, Spain and Italy.
This fall, the district is offering students the chance to study abroad in London, for a semester. Program Director Adam Windham spoke to the Express about how the journey works and why students should consider applying before the June 2 deadline.
Windham has been the director of the study abroad program at Los Rios since November 2022. Prior to his new duties, he was the dean of mathematics at American River College from the summer of 2019.
With his directing position, Windham manages and supports the program by coordinating with faculty at all four Los Rios colleges and assists in the logistics side such as housing and student services. Windham’s experience not only consists of the administration side, but creating opportunities for students interested in studying abroad in a new country.
How is the study abroad program arranged at Los Rios?
We run a 13- week, semester-long program. We go to Florence, Italy every spring, and then we’ll alternate between Barcelona, Spain and London, United Kingdom each fall. We are a four-district consortium, which means students from all four Los Rios Colleges — plus three other Bay Area college districts — travel together.
What do classes look like when you are studying abroad?
Students will take 12 units in 13 weeks. This will include a “Life and Culture” class of the host city and three other classes. Because we have four professors from different districts traveling with us, students have a variety of subject courses to choose from.
Why does the study abroad program focus on European cities?
These cities are incredibly accessible. They are major international destinations, meaning you can navigate them easily even if you don’t speak Italian or Spanish. They also provide what we call “pedagogical value.” If you’re studying art history, for example, the museums and sculptures are right outside your classroom.
Are there any plans to expand beyond studying abroad in Europe?
Yes! Due to high demand in our shorter summer programs, we are planning to add Kyoto, Japan as a semester-long destination starting in spring 2028.
Is studying abroad more expensive than staying local?
One major advantage of doing this through a community college is the costs. You pay the standard community college tuition rate. While there is an extra program fee for housing and student services, it is generally lower than what you would find at a four-year university.
Can students use their financial aid for costs?
Generally, yes for the tuition part. Since these are California community college courses, your normal financial aid often covers the unit fees. However, the program fees like airfare and housing usually must be paid out of pocket or through other resources.
What students are eligible to study abroad?
You need to be at least 18 years old, completed at least 12 units and have at least a 2.25 GPA. It’s first-come, first-served, so we rarely have to turn anyone away.
What is the biggest misconception about studying abroad?
Many students think they need to be fluent in a foreign language. That is not true. Another is safety. While people worry about big things, the main thing to watch for is actually pickpocketing in tourist areas. We teach students how to blend in with the crowd and be responsible.
What can students gain from this experience?
You learn how to be an international citizen. For many, it’s their first time living away from home or managing a roommate. Research shows that studying abroad correlates with higher wages later in life. It’s truly an investment in yourself.
This Q&A has been edited for length and clarity.
