Office of International Education and Development

Program Dates: June 2, 2024 - June 30, 2024

About the Program

This program will provide students with a deeper understanding of how migrant narratives are framed and disseminated. Students will learn about the historical contexts of migration as it relates to war, political and economic unrest, and cultural tensions. The program will look at how past narratives have informed and shaped how we frame and discuss migration today. While the program is primarily based at Masaryk University in Brno, Czechia, students will also have the opportunity to travel to Budapest to see the famous parliament building, Vienna, where students will tour the UNCR, Krakow, to tour Auschwitz, and finally Prague, where students will get to talk to journalists at Radio Free Europe. This is a unique opportunity to learn about communication strategies and skills. All majors are welcome to participate.

Locations

Brno
Brno is the second largest city in the Czech Republic. The city is known for modern architecture as well as having a rich Moravian history. The city focuses on preserving their rich culture as well as a vibrant university environment. Masaryk University is the largest university in Brno and second largest in the Czech Republic. While this is an urban area, there is still a significant connection to folk and traditional culture. Brno is also home to a fireworks festival held in June, which is the largest fireworks display in Central Europe. The town is also known for motor and bike racing.

Prague
Prague is the capital and largest of the Czech Republic and the historic capital of Bohemia. Known as a political, cultural and economic hub in central Europe, the city is also home to famous sites like the Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, and St. Vitus Cathedral. Radio Free Europe and Google also have headquarters in the city. Prague is known for having great cuisine and a rich beer brewing tradition. Prague is also one of the world’s most popular travel destinations.

Budapest
Budapest is the capital of Hungary and the ninth largest city in the European Union. The is located along the famous Danube river and is famous for its unique architecture and Turkish bathhouses. The most famous building likely being the Hungarian Parliament. The UNHCR also has headquarters in Budapest. The city is also well known for having a number of museums and galleries.

Krakow
Krakow is one of the oldest cities in Poland and one of the few that survived the extensive bombings during WWII. The city is known for Wawel Cathedral and various other historical sites. The city is also well known for having beautiful gardens and architecture. Surrounding the city are important historical sites such as Auschwitz and the Wielczka Salt Mines.

Vienna
Vienna, the capital of Austria, is also the largest city. Famous musicians such as Beethoven and Mozart are from the city helping to contribute to the rich cultural history. The city also has a number of famous museums and galleries. In addition, the United Nations also has offices in the city.

Academics

Faculty Leaders

Mark Bentley

Senior Lecturer, Director of Forensics, Communication Studies

Department of Communication

bentleyml1@appstate.edu

Katie Bentley

Senior Lecturer, Communication Studies

Department of Communication

bentleykl1@appstate.edu

Katie has been teaching in the Communication Department at App State for 10 years. She teaches classes like Intercultural Communication, Communication Theory, Public Speaking, and Research Methods. Katie loves living in Boone. Her favorite part about teaching at App State is, of course, the amazing students she gets to work with on a daily basis. She is super excited about this study abroad trip because of the amazing  opportunities for relationship building and experiential learning the trip will provide.

Program Cost: $4,833

Program cost includes lodging and some meals. It also includes all fees associated with tourist site visits and program activities.

Please note - Students are responsible for the total program cost upon submitting the application and deposit. Refunds are contingent upon meeting the minimum enrollment of the program. If a student decides to withdraw before departure, that student may be eligible for a refund if the program has met minimum enrollment and is therefore viable. 

Non-billable costs are estimates only and will be affected by personal spending habits, currency fluctuations, etc. Prices listed in USD unless otherwise noted.  Students are encouraged to start planning for their study abroad program costs well in advance. 

Appalachian reserves the right to cancel or alter the program format or to change costs in case of conditions beyond the university's control.  Further details about Appalachian's withdrawal/cancellation policy can be found at this link.

Application Process

1. In order to apply for this program, you will need to contact one of the program leaders and provide your Banner ID and email address. Program leaders may request additional information or a meeting to discuss the details of the program and your interest.
2. When permission to apply for the program is granted, you will receive an email from your program leader with instructions to apply.
3. Apply to the program following the instructions from the program leader.
4. Print, sign and drop off your application at the Office of International Education and Development at Plemmons Student Union (PSU), Suite 321 ( 3rd floor), 263 Locust Street Boone, NC 28608. Your application will be considered complete when you have submitted your digital application, paid the $300 deposit, and dropped off your printed and signed application. The fee cannot be paid until it appears on your student account. Please note that it may take 2–3 business days for it to post to your account. You will receive an email with Instructions for paying the deposit fee. Instructions can also be found in the application.