Exploring the impacts of a first-year engineering study abroad program on subsequent college experiences

Abstract

The Rising Sophomore Abroad Program (RSAP) is a program for first-year engineering students that combines a spring semester global engineering course with a two-week international module in May immediately following the semester. RSAP has been running for 10 years, and a variety of assessments have demonstrated benefits for students participating in the program. However, the goals of RSAP extend beyond the immediate learning outcomes of the experience. The program seeks to influence students' interests and participation in global activities throughout their college experience and into their engineering careers. This study assessed these mid-term goals by administering a survey of open-ended questions to RSAP alumni during their senior year to learn how RSAP influenced their time in college. Students reported an increased interest in travel and global topics, and all had traveled abroad since completing RSAP. They also described attitudes, knowledge, and skills that they learned from the program and have since been able to apply. Looking toward graduation, many reported a sustained interest in pursuing a career where they could work abroad. These results represent a unique contribution to the literature on global engineering programs in their exploration of the mid-term impacts of a short-term engineering study abroad program.

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