Global Opportunities RAP - Fall 2008

Perhaps you've always wanted to live and work in another country. Maybe you plan to study abroad and learn a new language. You care about the world and hope to gain a better understanding of globalization and the ways it affects your life—and what you can do about it. Or maybe you're not yet sure what it is that intrigues you about the world, but you know that finding out is part of who you are and what you will become. If this sounds like you, check out this RAP!

Students in the Global Opportunities RAP will live together and expand their knowledge of international issues, cultures, languages, and events. Regardless of your long term plans—such as studying abroad, working as a translator, or becoming a member of the international business community you will have an opportunity to explore ways to achieve these academic and/or career goals through an Anthropology class and a RAP seminar.

When you join the Global Opportunities RAP, you have the added benefit of enrolling in a Thatcher Language Program class IF you meet minimum qualifications AND space is available.  You will also have priority to participate in the Thatcher Language Program beyond your first year at UMass!

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Be sure to visit the How to Join page on this website to learn about the process and important timelines you must follow to become a member of this fantastic program!

When you join this program…

Classes

Fall semester :

All students in the Global Opportunities RAP will enroll in the following class and seminar, both taught in the residential area:

Anthropology 104 – Culture, Society & People Gen.Ed. SB & G

This course focuses on the nature of culture and its role in creating forms of social, economic, and political life in diverse historical and geographical contexts. This 3-credit lecture class will be restricted to the 30 students in this RAP and will be taught by an advanced Graduate Student in Anthropology who has personal experience traveling and studying abroad.

RAP Seminar

In addition to covering topics related to adjustment-to-college issues, this seminar will provide a unique forum for students to explore study abroad opportunities, cultural awareness issues, international events, and language proficiency. Faculty and staff from across the university—who have experience and expertise in international areas—will be invited to meet with students in the seminar. The seminar will also be a great resource for information about UMass majors and minors that include an international component—seminar leaders will help students navigate the expanse of choices to determine which path best suits their individual interests and skills.

Spring Semester

Students will enroll in a RAP section of English Writing 112 – College Writing in the residential area

Location

Global Opportunities RAP is in Thatcher Residence Hall in the Northeast area of campus. Thatcher is NOT a first-year hall.

Although first-year students in this RAP will be living in Thatcher Residence Hall, they will not officially be part of the Thatcher Language Program . However, as a Global Opportunity RAP student you will be welcome to participate in Thatcher functions and events. Additionally, upper level Thatcher students will participate in the RAP seminar and act as informal mentors

As a graduate in the twenty-first century, your endeavors—both professional and personal—will become increasingly global in nature. This presents tremendous opportunities for you. It also creates challenges. Becoming a globally adept citizen—having new eyes—will enhance your ability to succeed on the international stage in the twenty-first century. This program is an excellent step toward that success!

You know, as Proust knew, that “ The only real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes.”