Swiss Research Program Opens New Doors
Students who’ve participated in the International Field Research Program in Switzerland come back with something to talk about. For one week in June, they have the opportunity to travel to Switzerland for field research study, where they are immersed in the Swiss culture and influenced by Swiss habits and policy. When they return, some have solidified their future career paths and others have decided to go in a new direction.
“This course has played a critical role in my decision to continue my education beyond my undergraduate degree,” said Lauren Atkinson ’08. “This program has been my most positive memory of UMBC.”
The Switzerland trip is one part of a three-credit course, Introduction to International Field Research (IFR): Culture, Policy and Practice. Students enroll in either Sociology/Health Administration and Policy Program 403 or Sociology 663 during the spring semester and then travel to Switzerland June 15-21, 2009 to complete their research. They are able to choose their own subject areas, and most students pick topics related to their intended field of study. For many, it is a first-time study abroad experience.
“This class is open to all majors and is a good course for those who want an introduction to international research,” said Cathy McDonnell, program coordinator. “Through this experience students learn basic qualitative field research methods that can be useful in a variety of personal and employment situations.”
Research conducted in past years have been wide ranging, including Swiss health insurance, adolescent health, drug rehabilitation, HIV, environmental protection, the impact of global warming, public transportation, juvenile justice, immigrant health, and emergency preparedness. Past students’ majors have included health administration and policy, sociology, dance, psychology, economics, public policy and biology – just to name a few.
For students interested in doing research with a focus on health policy or long-term care while in Switzerland, a scholarship opportunity is available – Health Scholars Travel Fellowships are awarded based on GPA and an application essay. This scholarship provides financial assistance and academic honor to students’ CVs and resumes.
Along with academic honor and new research knowledge, students also gain a sense of camaraderie among their peers. McDonnell said students come back from the program saying they’ve found “friends for life” through this experience.
Students interested in applying for the 2009 International Field Research Program in Switzerland still have time to apply. Health Scholars Travel Fellowships are still available for those interested in health-related research topics. All applications are due Friday, December 5. For more information and a complete application, visit http://www.umbc.edu/happ/health/IFR.htm. Students may also contact Cathy McDonnell at cat@umbc.edu with questions.
(11/14/08)
© 2007-08 University of Maryland, Baltimore County 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250 410-455-1000
