by Cory Cruz
Staff Writer
“All for the low, low price of $35,000,” is a phrase that usually follows the description of a three month European vacation. But, it might be less expensive to be accepted for the study abroad program offered at the University of La Verne.
The cost of $9,890 includes tuition. Room, board and plane fare can be covered by the financial aid package. However, the price may rise during the fall 1996 semester, according to Dr. Al Clark, assistant vice president of academic affairs.
“Don’t let money get in the way because money doesn’t matter. You can charge it or take out a loan,” said junior Shannon McCrea, who spent a semester studying in England.
“We’re still young enough to be in debt. The experience is totally worth it,” she said.
During breaks and holidays from school, McCrea and other students took advantage of the overseas experience and traveled to Paris, Holland, Ireland and other parts of England.
According to Dr. Clark, the best way to keep the cost of extras down is bargain shopping. Many students buy their souvenirs and gifts as soon as they step off the plane. Dr. Clark emphasized that students should shop around instead and look before making a hasty decision.
“There are a lot of tourist traps that, unfortunately, students buy from instead of waiting a while until they are used to their surroundings,” said Dr. Clark.
“You should realize that there are four months in which you have to shop. I think souvenirs are cheesy, so I only bought gifts that were sold in the different countries I visited,” said McCrea.
When traveling, some students stay in youth hostels because the lodging is inexpensive.
“I thought it was going to be more expensive. It cost the same as if you were living on campus, all you really need is spending money,” said junior Claudia Jimenez, who also spent three months studying in England.
McCrea and Jimenez also saved money by participating in events that were thrown by the school.
“There were a lot of dances, comedians and clubs, like the surfing club, that the school offers for free,” said Jimenez, who also had the opportunity to attend musical events during her stay in Europe. She described a campus performance by the Commitments as “way cool.”
“Studying abroad once was one of the best decisions I ever made. I was scared at first but after a while I totally loosened up and had a great time,” she said.
