Student FAQs
1. What is GO Long?
GO Long is a semester-long program where you are studying at an international university or study center. Typically GO Long programs are between 4-6 months long.
2. Why should I consider a GO Long?
Studying away for a semester gives you the opportunity to broaden your horizons, learn new skills, and start thinking about and understanding the world and yourself in new ways. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds. It can also help you build important skills that future employers may be looking for like problem-solving, communication, and adaptability. Most GO Long programs do not interfere with the bulk of winter and summer break, so you would still be able to work/intern during those times. Some majors require students to participate in a GO Long, so make sure to talk with your academic advisor to understand your major requirements.
3. What majors require a GO Long?
- Languages, Literatures and Culture (required to study for a semester and take courses in your language of study)
- International Studies
4. When can I GO Long?
You can participate in GO Long as soon as the second semester of your second year (sophomore year). This would require you to apply to GO during the fall of your first year on campus. However, most students complete a GO Long during their junior year (third year) at Susquehanna. The latest you can participate in GO Long is two semesters before your anticipated graduation date, because you need to be back on campus for your final semester in order to complete the reflection course following your program.
5. Where can I GO Long?
You can participate in a GO Long almost anywhere in the world! There are over 60 approved GO Long programs (please note that some programs have different tracks), and we suggest you start to familiarize yourself with the information online. In narrowing down your options, think about what goals you have for yourself for a semester away and how you will connect your GO program to your time on campus. Do your goals include:
- To do research for your major?
- To connect with a specific culture?
- To practice language skills?
- To get involved on campus?
- To stay active in athletics?
- To be in a specific region?
- To live with a host family?
We suggest you come into the GO Office to meet with a GO advisor, who can help answer your questions about the programs, or lead you in the right direction to find answers. Make an appointment HERE.
6. Will I get Susquehanna University credits for the classes I take during GO Long?
Yes. All classes you take during GO Long count as elective credits on your SU degree audit. Once approved for GO Long, you will also work closely with your academic department(s), GO and the Registrar's office to see if you can take classes to fit with your major/minor requirements.
7. When and how can I apply to GO Long?
You will apply online, directly from each GO Long description page, between October 15 and November 15 for either semester of the following year. To apply, you’ll need to click on the “apply now” button on the program description page, follow the prompts to login and submit answers to the questions, and name a recommender. You only apply to one program, but must list an alternate program.
8. Do I have to apply twice for GO Long? When do I apply the 2nd time?
Yes, your first application is to the GO Office, requesting approval to complete a GO Long. The GO Office reviews your GO application, your academic and disciplinary standing, and the recommendation that is submitted on your behalf as part of the GO Long approval process. Only after you have been approved by the GO Office should you initiate your application to your approved program (the 2nd application). In the semester prior, once approved for GO Long, you will receive information at the GO Long Overview Meeting, held at the beginning of the semester, about how to submit your 2nd application materials.
9. Can I apply to GO Short and GO Long?
Yes, you can! However, you will receive a decision from the GO Short application, and if approved have to commit to the program, prior to receiving a decision about you GO Long. You must follow the instructions for each program type - the GO Program requires students to apply to two GO Short programs.
10. Can I still graduate on time if I participate in a GO Long?
If you start planning for it well in advance, almost any student could participate in GO Long. However, students with some majors have to work more closely with their academic departments to make sure they stay on track for graduation. GO suggests students reserve some of their Central Curriculum courses to fulfill during a GO Long, as there are often many of those choices. If you have other questions specific to you and your situation, we suggest you schedule a GO advising appointment here.
11. Can I participate in a GO Long in a country where I do not speak the main language?
Yes. Many programs offer the bulk of their courses in English, even in places where English is not the official language. Students who complete a GO Long in a place where they do not speak the official language(s) will: opt to enroll in a language course, are required to take a language course, or they will choose to focus exclusively on non-language based coursework. In the third case, GO highly recommends students learn at least a few basic phrases in the main language(s) so they can show respect and move comfortably around their host city/country/town. Plus, it is an optimal time to study language, while surrounded by native speakers and with ample space for practice!
12. What are “SU-in” programs and how are they different from the other GO Long programs?
Any program that is labeled as SU-in indicates that Susquehanna University has a direct partnership with that university. In these cases, the GO Office will be a student’s main point of contact throughout the application and approval process, and the GO Long administrative fee is lower for these programs than for the non-SU-in ones. For students that are on tuition remission or tuition exchange, that benefit applies to our SU-in programs.
For non-SU-in GO Long programs, students will work more closely with the program provider directly, once they are approved for a GO Long through the GO Office.
13. Where do students live during GO Long?
GO Long offers programs where students can live in dorms, student apartments, or with local families. Not every GO Long offers every housing option, so remember to check the housing options available, which are listed on the individual websites of all GO Long programs. It is common for Susquehanna students to live with other international students, and possibly with local students too. Fewer students choose to live with a host family, and usually do so if they are interested in an immersive living arrangement and/or the opportunity to practice their language skills in a home setting.
14. What dining options are available during GO Long?
For most GO Long programs, there are no meal plans. Students are required to shop for and prepare their own meals; this is called self-catered. For students interested in programs that are self-catered, the GO Office suggest that students become familiar with how to cook a few basic meals before departing for GO Long. While abroad, most students employ a few strategies so they are not responsible for cooking every night, combining a mixture of cooking in big batches, sharing cooking duties with friends or roommates, and eating out occasionally. Most program sites have many dining out options nearby, including cafes and multiple restaurants. Some GO Long programs do have access to partial or full meal plans.
15. How does GO Long pricing work? Are there scholarships available?
For GO Long, you will be responsible for paying SU tuition and fees, paid to SU on the normal semester billing cycle. That billing will also include the room fee (and depending on the program, the board fee) of where you are going, instead of the room/board fees for a campus semester. Your financial aid package applies to your approved GO Long program, all need-based and merit-based aid will be applied.
If costs are a main consideration for you, we suggest you look into choosing a GO Long where the combined cost of room/board/airfare is less than that of SU’s room/board for a semester, accessed after clicking on GO Long from this site. We also encourage students to apply for outside scholarships, and we keep a semiannually updated list of potential scholarships on this PAGE, but remember to do your own scholarship research too, as this list is not exhaustive.
16. What is the GPA requirement for GO Long?
You must have at least a 2.5 GPA or higher to be approved to participate in a GO Long program. While most of the GO Long programs require a 2.5 GPA, some programs require a higher GPA requirement, up to a 3.0 GPA. When searching the GO website for programs, make sure to check the required GPA of the programs that interest you, and when applying, make sure you meet the GPA requirements of the program order to help your chances of being approved. If your GPA is below a 2.5 and therefore does not meet the requirements for GO Long, you have other GO options. You can do a GO Short or a Go Your Way instead.
17. What if I don’t get approved to the GO Long I applied for by GO?
There are a few reasons students might not be approved for the GO Long program for which they have applied, including: not having the minimum GPA required of the program, not being in good disciplinary standing, not completing the online application to GO Long by the deadline, a recommender exhibiting extreme concern about a student participating in a GO Long, or if a student applies to a competitive program and is not offered one of the available participant spots. If you are not approved for your first-choice GO Long, depending on the reason, you may have the opportunity to participate in the alternate program you selected. If not, you will need to consider your other GO options, including GO Short, GO Your Way, or waiting a year for the next GO Long application cycle to open, at which point you can re-apply. If you are not accepted to the program you applied for, we suggest meeting with a GO Advisor. You can request an appointment with an advisor here.
GO Long is a semester-long program where you are studying at an international university or study center. Typically GO Long programs are between 4-6 months long.
2. Why should I consider a GO Long?
Studying away for a semester gives you the opportunity to broaden your horizons, learn new skills, and start thinking about and understanding the world and yourself in new ways. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds. It can also help you build important skills that future employers may be looking for like problem-solving, communication, and adaptability. Most GO Long programs do not interfere with the bulk of winter and summer break, so you would still be able to work/intern during those times. Some majors require students to participate in a GO Long, so make sure to talk with your academic advisor to understand your major requirements.
3. What majors require a GO Long?
- Languages, Literatures and Culture (required to study for a semester and take courses in your language of study)
- International Studies
4. When can I GO Long?
You can participate in GO Long as soon as the second semester of your second year (sophomore year). This would require you to apply to GO during the fall of your first year on campus. However, most students complete a GO Long during their junior year (third year) at Susquehanna. The latest you can participate in GO Long is two semesters before your anticipated graduation date, because you need to be back on campus for your final semester in order to complete the reflection course following your program.
5. Where can I GO Long?
You can participate in a GO Long almost anywhere in the world! There are over 60 approved GO Long programs (please note that some programs have different tracks), and we suggest you start to familiarize yourself with the information online. In narrowing down your options, think about what goals you have for yourself for a semester away and how you will connect your GO program to your time on campus. Do your goals include:
- To do research for your major?
- To connect with a specific culture?
- To practice language skills?
- To get involved on campus?
- To stay active in athletics?
- To be in a specific region?
- To live with a host family?
We suggest you come into the GO Office to meet with a GO advisor, who can help answer your questions about the programs, or lead you in the right direction to find answers. Make an appointment HERE.
6. Will I get Susquehanna University credits for the classes I take during GO Long?
Yes. All classes you take during GO Long count as elective credits on your SU degree audit. Once approved for GO Long, you will also work closely with your academic department(s), GO and the Registrar's office to see if you can take classes to fit with your major/minor requirements.
7. When and how can I apply to GO Long?
You will apply online, directly from each GO Long description page, between October 15 and November 15 for either semester of the following year. To apply, you’ll need to click on the “apply now” button on the program description page, follow the prompts to login and submit answers to the questions, and name a recommender. You only apply to one program, but must list an alternate program.
8. Do I have to apply twice for GO Long? When do I apply the 2nd time?
Yes, your first application is to the GO Office, requesting approval to complete a GO Long. The GO Office reviews your GO application, your academic and disciplinary standing, and the recommendation that is submitted on your behalf as part of the GO Long approval process. Only after you have been approved by the GO Office should you initiate your application to your approved program (the 2nd application). In the semester prior, once approved for GO Long, you will receive information at the GO Long Overview Meeting, held at the beginning of the semester, about how to submit your 2nd application materials.
9. Can I apply to GO Short and GO Long?
Yes, you can! However, you will receive a decision from the GO Short application, and if approved have to commit to the program, prior to receiving a decision about you GO Long. You must follow the instructions for each program type - the GO Program requires students to apply to two GO Short programs.
10. Can I still graduate on time if I participate in a GO Long?
If you start planning for it well in advance, almost any student could participate in GO Long. However, students with some majors have to work more closely with their academic departments to make sure they stay on track for graduation. GO suggests students reserve some of their Central Curriculum courses to fulfill during a GO Long, as there are often many of those choices. If you have other questions specific to you and your situation, we suggest you schedule a GO advising appointment here.
11. Can I participate in a GO Long in a country where I do not speak the main language?
Yes. Many programs offer the bulk of their courses in English, even in places where English is not the official language. Students who complete a GO Long in a place where they do not speak the official language(s) will: opt to enroll in a language course, are required to take a language course, or they will choose to focus exclusively on non-language based coursework. In the third case, GO highly recommends students learn at least a few basic phrases in the main language(s) so they can show respect and move comfortably around their host city/country/town. Plus, it is an optimal time to study language, while surrounded by native speakers and with ample space for practice!
12. What are “SU-in” programs and how are they different from the other GO Long programs?
Any program that is labeled as SU-in indicates that Susquehanna University has a direct partnership with that university. In these cases, the GO Office will be a student’s main point of contact throughout the application and approval process, and the GO Long administrative fee is lower for these programs than for the non-SU-in ones. For students that are on tuition remission or tuition exchange, that benefit applies to our SU-in programs.
For non-SU-in GO Long programs, students will work more closely with the program provider directly, once they are approved for a GO Long through the GO Office.
13. Where do students live during GO Long?
GO Long offers programs where students can live in dorms, student apartments, or with local families. Not every GO Long offers every housing option, so remember to check the housing options available, which are listed on the individual websites of all GO Long programs. It is common for Susquehanna students to live with other international students, and possibly with local students too. Fewer students choose to live with a host family, and usually do so if they are interested in an immersive living arrangement and/or the opportunity to practice their language skills in a home setting.
14. What dining options are available during GO Long?
For most GO Long programs, there are no meal plans. Students are required to shop for and prepare their own meals; this is called self-catered. For students interested in programs that are self-catered, the GO Office suggest that students become familiar with how to cook a few basic meals before departing for GO Long. While abroad, most students employ a few strategies so they are not responsible for cooking every night, combining a mixture of cooking in big batches, sharing cooking duties with friends or roommates, and eating out occasionally. Most program sites have many dining out options nearby, including cafes and multiple restaurants. Some GO Long programs do have access to partial or full meal plans.
15. How does GO Long pricing work? Are there scholarships available?
For GO Long, you will be responsible for paying SU tuition and fees, paid to SU on the normal semester billing cycle. That billing will also include the room fee (and depending on the program, the board fee) of where you are going, instead of the room/board fees for a campus semester. Your financial aid package applies to your approved GO Long program, all need-based and merit-based aid will be applied.
If costs are a main consideration for you, we suggest you look into choosing a GO Long where the combined cost of room/board/airfare is less than that of SU’s room/board for a semester, accessed after clicking on GO Long from this site. We also encourage students to apply for outside scholarships, and we keep a semiannually updated list of potential scholarships on this PAGE, but remember to do your own scholarship research too, as this list is not exhaustive.
16. What is the GPA requirement for GO Long?
You must have at least a 2.5 GPA or higher to be approved to participate in a GO Long program. While most of the GO Long programs require a 2.5 GPA, some programs require a higher GPA requirement, up to a 3.0 GPA. When searching the GO website for programs, make sure to check the required GPA of the programs that interest you, and when applying, make sure you meet the GPA requirements of the program order to help your chances of being approved. If your GPA is below a 2.5 and therefore does not meet the requirements for GO Long, you have other GO options. You can do a GO Short or a Go Your Way instead.
17. What if I don’t get approved to the GO Long I applied for by GO?
There are a few reasons students might not be approved for the GO Long program for which they have applied, including: not having the minimum GPA required of the program, not being in good disciplinary standing, not completing the online application to GO Long by the deadline, a recommender exhibiting extreme concern about a student participating in a GO Long, or if a student applies to a competitive program and is not offered one of the available participant spots. If you are not approved for your first-choice GO Long, depending on the reason, you may have the opportunity to participate in the alternate program you selected. If not, you will need to consider your other GO options, including GO Short, GO Your Way, or waiting a year for the next GO Long application cycle to open, at which point you can re-apply. If you are not accepted to the program you applied for, we suggest meeting with a GO Advisor. You can request an appointment with an advisor here.
1. What is GO Short?
GO Short programs are short-term, faculty-led programs. They are experiential-learning based programming which includes immersion into a host culture. A group of Susquehanna students and faculty/staff program directors travel together throughout the program. GO Short programs are typically non-credit bearing for the travel itself (students will get 1 credit for the preparation course and 1 credit for the reflection course – both taught on campus)
2. When should I complete a GO Short program?
Typically, students will complete a GO Short the summer between their third and fourth years (between junior-senior year). There are some that will complete a program between their second and third years (between sophomore-junior year). Typically, there are more summer programs offered than winter programs.
3. What are the requirements for GO Short?
You must be in good disciplinary, financial, and academic standing to be considered for a GO Short program. A student on any kind of disciplinary probation may not apply (or be considered) for any GO program until they are no longer on probation. Any student with a balance on their account must clear that balance before their application can be considered. Students who have a GPA lower than 2.0 will not be able to apply for a GO Short program.
4. Are there programs that are for specific majors?
GO Short programs are designed to be interdisciplinary. Some programs have a theme that might be more interesting to specific majors, but GO Short programs rarely have pre-requisites and are usually open to any major.
5. How do I know if the program I want is going to run?
Not every program runs every year. Summer and Winter GO Short programs are announced nine months prior to the season in which the program is taking place. Click HERE to see a list of programs offered over the upcoming Summer or Winter break.
6. Are GO Short programs competitive to get into?
Yes. A limited number of programs, with a fixed number of spaces on each program are offered each season, meaning it can be very competitive. When applying to a GO Short program, you must apply to 2 programs, so it is a good idea for at least one of those programs be one that is not as competitive.
7. I want to do my GO Short with my friend(s) – how can we do that?
It’s actually unlikely you’ll be able to do so. You can apply to the same program(s), but there is no guarantee that you will all get into the same program – especially if it’s a more competitive program.
8. What is included in the price I will pay for a GO Short?
GO Short program fees are in addition to SU tuition/fees as the program occurs during summer/winter break. The fees are all-inclusive - when you pay for a GO Short program, everything is included in the price except for your own spending money. The outgoing and return flight are both included as well as lodging, travel, and food for all meals. The student will have to spend their own money should they want to buy personal toiletries, souvenirs, or gifts.
9. Are there scholarships for GO Short?
You may be eligible for a GO Grant. This is in the form of a percentage of your total program cost. That can be up to 75 percent of the total cost for a GO Short program. You can find your GO Grant percentage on your profile once you have applied to a program (How to find GO Grant Percentage).
10. When am I billed for a GO Short?
GO Short students are billed outside of the SU billing cycle and will receive notification when the balance is applied to the SU account. Typically, this is billed 2-3 months in advance of the program travel. After committing to the program, you are financially responsible for fees associated with the program.
11. What are the preparation and reflection courses?
GO Programs include a mandatory pre-departure and reflection courses. Even if you have already completed the GO requirement, you must complete all three parts of a GO Short program.
The preparation course (second 7-weeks of the semester prior to departure; taught on Thursday evenings 7-9 PM) introduces students to the cross-cultural learning goals and how students will achieve them through coursework on campus and on-site. The reflection course (first 7-weeks of the semester after return; taught on Thursday evenings 7-9 PM) focuses on the processing of the experience.
12. How do I register for the Prep and Reflection courses?
The Registrar’s Office registers all students for GO Short Programs. These will all appear on a student’s schedule after the commitment deadline.
Each course is a prerequisite for the following course. Students must pass the preparation course to participate in the program, must pass the travel component in order to take the reflection course, must pass the reflection course in order to complete the GO requirement. Program Directors grade students for each of these parts of a GO Short program.
13. Do students take academic classes on GO Short programs?
GOing short is more focused on experiential learning as opposed to classroom learning.
14. Are there any GO Short Programs in the U.S.?
Yes. There are a few GO Short programs that take place in the U.S.: GO Hawai’i, GO New Orleans, and Service and Culture in Puerto Rico.
15. Can I participate in a GO Short in a country where I do not speak the main language?
Yes. Most of the programs will review some general phrases in the host language prior to departure. If you have a language background, it can be beneficial but it is typically not a requirement. If a program has a language requirement, it will be noted on the online brochure and in the application questions.
16. Where do I live during a GO Short program?
Most GO Short programs stay in a hotel/hostels where you would be sharing a room with another Susquehanna student. Some programs may include a homestay component. This is outlined on the online brochure of the program.
17. Can friends and family visit me during my program?
No. While on a GO Short program, students are not allowed to be visited by friends and family.
18. When and how do I apply?
You will submit your application on go.susqu.edu for two GO Short programs. Programs are announced 9 months in advance of the program term. Applications open online about two weeks after the programs are announced.
Summer programs:
- Announced: October 1
- Apply: October 15-November 15
Winter programs:
- Announced: March 1
- Apply: March 15-April 15
19. How do I find out about the decision of my application?
Students will receive notification through the GO Management System about the decision for their GO Short program. You will only be accepted into one of the two applications/programs. The notification will provide valuable information and links to additional forms that will need to be completed.
20. If I’m accepted, how do I commit to a program?
Students will have about one week to commit to the program by clicking the “Commit” button on their application page in the GO Management System, and read/sign the Post-Approval Acknowledgement Form. Failure to provide the required documentation by the deadline will result in the student losing their placement in the program and they will have to apply for a different program during the following application cycle, if there are spots open.
Upon completing the Post-Approval Acknowledgement Form and clicking the “Commit” button, they are financially committed to the program. After the commitment deadline students are responsible for fees associated with the program (the program deposit and any other fees made on their behalf).
21. What happens if I don’t get into either of the 2 programs I apply for?
If this happens, and you are a 3rd year, the GO Office will generally reach out to you with other GO options. These may be other GO Short programs that did not fill in the 1st round, or GO Your Way program options. For 1st or 2nd year students, you will have other Summer and Winter Sessions where you can try again.
GO Short programs are short-term, faculty-led programs. They are experiential-learning based programming which includes immersion into a host culture. A group of Susquehanna students and faculty/staff program directors travel together throughout the program. GO Short programs are typically non-credit bearing for the travel itself (students will get 1 credit for the preparation course and 1 credit for the reflection course – both taught on campus)
2. When should I complete a GO Short program?
Typically, students will complete a GO Short the summer between their third and fourth years (between junior-senior year). There are some that will complete a program between their second and third years (between sophomore-junior year). Typically, there are more summer programs offered than winter programs.
3. What are the requirements for GO Short?
You must be in good disciplinary, financial, and academic standing to be considered for a GO Short program. A student on any kind of disciplinary probation may not apply (or be considered) for any GO program until they are no longer on probation. Any student with a balance on their account must clear that balance before their application can be considered. Students who have a GPA lower than 2.0 will not be able to apply for a GO Short program.
4. Are there programs that are for specific majors?
GO Short programs are designed to be interdisciplinary. Some programs have a theme that might be more interesting to specific majors, but GO Short programs rarely have pre-requisites and are usually open to any major.
5. How do I know if the program I want is going to run?
Not every program runs every year. Summer and Winter GO Short programs are announced nine months prior to the season in which the program is taking place. Click HERE to see a list of programs offered over the upcoming Summer or Winter break.
6. Are GO Short programs competitive to get into?
Yes. A limited number of programs, with a fixed number of spaces on each program are offered each season, meaning it can be very competitive. When applying to a GO Short program, you must apply to 2 programs, so it is a good idea for at least one of those programs be one that is not as competitive.
7. I want to do my GO Short with my friend(s) – how can we do that?
It’s actually unlikely you’ll be able to do so. You can apply to the same program(s), but there is no guarantee that you will all get into the same program – especially if it’s a more competitive program.
8. What is included in the price I will pay for a GO Short?
GO Short program fees are in addition to SU tuition/fees as the program occurs during summer/winter break. The fees are all-inclusive - when you pay for a GO Short program, everything is included in the price except for your own spending money. The outgoing and return flight are both included as well as lodging, travel, and food for all meals. The student will have to spend their own money should they want to buy personal toiletries, souvenirs, or gifts.
9. Are there scholarships for GO Short?
You may be eligible for a GO Grant. This is in the form of a percentage of your total program cost. That can be up to 75 percent of the total cost for a GO Short program. You can find your GO Grant percentage on your profile once you have applied to a program (How to find GO Grant Percentage).
10. When am I billed for a GO Short?
GO Short students are billed outside of the SU billing cycle and will receive notification when the balance is applied to the SU account. Typically, this is billed 2-3 months in advance of the program travel. After committing to the program, you are financially responsible for fees associated with the program.
11. What are the preparation and reflection courses?
GO Programs include a mandatory pre-departure and reflection courses. Even if you have already completed the GO requirement, you must complete all three parts of a GO Short program.
The preparation course (second 7-weeks of the semester prior to departure; taught on Thursday evenings 7-9 PM) introduces students to the cross-cultural learning goals and how students will achieve them through coursework on campus and on-site. The reflection course (first 7-weeks of the semester after return; taught on Thursday evenings 7-9 PM) focuses on the processing of the experience.
12. How do I register for the Prep and Reflection courses?
The Registrar’s Office registers all students for GO Short Programs. These will all appear on a student’s schedule after the commitment deadline.
Each course is a prerequisite for the following course. Students must pass the preparation course to participate in the program, must pass the travel component in order to take the reflection course, must pass the reflection course in order to complete the GO requirement. Program Directors grade students for each of these parts of a GO Short program.
13. Do students take academic classes on GO Short programs?
GOing short is more focused on experiential learning as opposed to classroom learning.
14. Are there any GO Short Programs in the U.S.?
Yes. There are a few GO Short programs that take place in the U.S.: GO Hawai’i, GO New Orleans, and Service and Culture in Puerto Rico.
15. Can I participate in a GO Short in a country where I do not speak the main language?
Yes. Most of the programs will review some general phrases in the host language prior to departure. If you have a language background, it can be beneficial but it is typically not a requirement. If a program has a language requirement, it will be noted on the online brochure and in the application questions.
16. Where do I live during a GO Short program?
Most GO Short programs stay in a hotel/hostels where you would be sharing a room with another Susquehanna student. Some programs may include a homestay component. This is outlined on the online brochure of the program.
17. Can friends and family visit me during my program?
No. While on a GO Short program, students are not allowed to be visited by friends and family.
18. When and how do I apply?
You will submit your application on go.susqu.edu for two GO Short programs. Programs are announced 9 months in advance of the program term. Applications open online about two weeks after the programs are announced.
Summer programs:
- Announced: October 1
- Apply: October 15-November 15
Winter programs:
- Announced: March 1
- Apply: March 15-April 15
19. How do I find out about the decision of my application?
Students will receive notification through the GO Management System about the decision for their GO Short program. You will only be accepted into one of the two applications/programs. The notification will provide valuable information and links to additional forms that will need to be completed.
20. If I’m accepted, how do I commit to a program?
Students will have about one week to commit to the program by clicking the “Commit” button on their application page in the GO Management System, and read/sign the Post-Approval Acknowledgement Form. Failure to provide the required documentation by the deadline will result in the student losing their placement in the program and they will have to apply for a different program during the following application cycle, if there are spots open.
Upon completing the Post-Approval Acknowledgement Form and clicking the “Commit” button, they are financially committed to the program. After the commitment deadline students are responsible for fees associated with the program (the program deposit and any other fees made on their behalf).
21. What happens if I don’t get into either of the 2 programs I apply for?
If this happens, and you are a 3rd year, the GO Office will generally reach out to you with other GO options. These may be other GO Short programs that did not fill in the 1st round, or GO Your Way program options. For 1st or 2nd year students, you will have other Summer and Winter Sessions where you can try again.
1. What is GO Your Way?
A GO Your Way Program is a short-term immersion experience in a cultural setting different from one’s own for a minimum of 2 weeks. The experience does not have to be for credit and it does not have to be a formal pre-designed program (though many are). Students must provide evidence in their proposal that they have planned a significant cross-cultural experience that will help them meet the learning goals adopted by the Susquehanna faculty for this requirement.
It is important to recognize that the emphasis should be on a single culture where an identified group of people has shared and passed down traditions from generation to generation.
2. When should I complete a GO Your Way program?
Typically, students will complete a GO Your Way program the summer between their third and fourth years (between junior-senior year). There are some that will complete a program between their second and third years (between sophomore-junior year).
3. What makes GO Your Way different from GO Short?
A GO Short is a program with other SU students and staff/faculty, and the group stays together and does all activities together. In a GO Your Way program, there will be no SU staff or faculty with you. The GO Your Way student will also have to be more independent in that they will be responsible for their own travel/itinerary.
4. Do I have to create my own program from the ground up?
No. There are 4 types of GO Your Way programs: Summer Schools, Internships/Volunteer programs, Study Programs, or self-designed. The only one where you would create your program from scratch is through a self-designed. The others are done through an organization that helps you with the logistics, like a study abroad, internship, or volunteer organization. Summer Schools are at our partner universities – we send students there for GO Long, but they also have summer schools available.
5. Can my GO Your Way be in the US?
Yes. The cross-cultural requirement is that you spend time immersed in a culture different from your own, which you can find within the US. The emphasis should be on a single culture where an identified grouping of people has shared and passed down traditions from generation to generation.
6. How long does my GO Your Way have to be to meet the requirement?
The cross-cultural requirement is that you spend 14 days immersed in a culture different from your own. That would not include the days you travel to/from your destination.
7. Can GO Your Way programs be a semester long?
No. GO Your Way programs can only be Summer or Winter programs. They cannot be a full semester long. A semester-long program that is not on our approved list is called a non-approved program and requires more planning and paperwork from the student.
8. What are the academic/disciplinary requirements for GO Your Way?
We rely on the requirements of the program/organization you are working with for a GO Your Way program.
9. Are there programs that are for specific majors?
We find that most students participating in a GO Your Way program connect it to their major or future goals.
10. I want to do my GO Your Way with my friend – how can we do that?
You both can propose the same program to GO, most of the time there is a maximum of 4 Susquehanna students on the same GO Your Way program.
11. Do students take academic classes on GO Your Way programs?
Students participating in the SU-in and study programs are taking academic classes. You will need to work with the Registrar’s Office the semester prior to departure to see how the courses may transfer back to Susquehanna.
12. Can I participate in a GO Your Way program in a country where I do not speak the main language?
Yes. Many programs offer the bulk of their courses in English, even in places where English is not the official language. Students who complete a GO Your Way in a place where they do not speak the official language(s) will: opt to enroll in a language course, are required to take a language course, or they will choose to focus exclusively on non-language-based work. In the third case, GO highly recommends students learn at least a few basic phrases in the main language(s) so they can show respect and move comfortably around their host city/country/town. Plus, it is an optimal time to study language, while surrounded by native speakers and with ample space for practice!
13. Where do I live during a GO Your Way program?
Most GO Your Way students will stay in dorms or homestays. This depends on the program itself and would be the responsibility of the student to research.
14. Can friends and family visit me during my program?
No. While on a GO Your Way program, students are not allowed to be visited by friends and family because they are typically short-term, immersive experiences.
15. Is there financial aid available for GO Your Way programs?
You may be eligible for a limited need-based GO Grant. You can find your GO Grant percentage on your profile once you have applied to a program (How to find GO Grant Percentage).
16. When am I billed for a GO Your Way?
Depending on the program, you may not be billed through Susquehanna.
After your program is approved, you will receive access to the list of programs with which Susquehanna has a billing agreement (mostly the programs where we have a GO Long program). If you are participating in a program where there is a billing agreement, you are billed through your student account the semester before GOing.
If you are participating in a GO Your Way program that does not have a billing agreement (or self-designed experience), you are responsible for paying the fees directly to the program.
17. What are the preparation and reflection courses?
GO Programs include mandatory pre-departure and reflection courses.
The preparation course (second 7-weeks of the semester prior to departure; taught on Thursday evenings 7-9 PM) introduces students to the cross-cultural learning goals and how students will achieve them through coursework on campus and on-site. The reflection course (first 7-weeks of the semester after return; taught on Thursday evenings 7-9 PM) focuses on the processing of the experience.
18. How do I register for the Prep and Reflection courses?
The Registrar’s Office registers all students for GO Your Way Programs. These will all appear on a student’s schedule after the commitment deadline.
Each course is a prerequisite for the following course. Students must pass the preparation course to participate in the program, must pass the travel component in order to take the reflection course, and must pass the reflection course in order to complete the GO requirement. You receive a grade based on the materials submitted for each of the components.
19. When and how do I apply?
You will submit your application on go.susqu.edu for the GO Your Way program. Part of the application process includes an initial application and a detailed proposal.
Summer programs:
- Apply: October 15-Februrary 15
Winter programs:
- Apply: March 15-September 15
If you are proposing a program that is using a program provider or host university, after you have received approval from GO you will need to apply to the program provider/university. It is important to complete your GO application/approval first as not all programs fulfill the cross-cultural learning goals.
20. How do I find out about the decision of my application?
Students will receive notification through the GO Management System about the decision for the GO Your Way program. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis after November (for Summer) and March (for Winter). The notification will provide valuable information and links to additional forms that will need to be completed.
21. If I’m accepted, how do I commit to a program?
Students will have until March 1 (summer) and October 1 (winter) to commit to the program by clicking the “Commit” button on their application page in the GO Management System, and read/sign the Post-Approval Acknowledgement Form.
A GO Your Way Program is a short-term immersion experience in a cultural setting different from one’s own for a minimum of 2 weeks. The experience does not have to be for credit and it does not have to be a formal pre-designed program (though many are). Students must provide evidence in their proposal that they have planned a significant cross-cultural experience that will help them meet the learning goals adopted by the Susquehanna faculty for this requirement.
It is important to recognize that the emphasis should be on a single culture where an identified group of people has shared and passed down traditions from generation to generation.
2. When should I complete a GO Your Way program?
Typically, students will complete a GO Your Way program the summer between their third and fourth years (between junior-senior year). There are some that will complete a program between their second and third years (between sophomore-junior year).
3. What makes GO Your Way different from GO Short?
A GO Short is a program with other SU students and staff/faculty, and the group stays together and does all activities together. In a GO Your Way program, there will be no SU staff or faculty with you. The GO Your Way student will also have to be more independent in that they will be responsible for their own travel/itinerary.
4. Do I have to create my own program from the ground up?
No. There are 4 types of GO Your Way programs: Summer Schools, Internships/Volunteer programs, Study Programs, or self-designed. The only one where you would create your program from scratch is through a self-designed. The others are done through an organization that helps you with the logistics, like a study abroad, internship, or volunteer organization. Summer Schools are at our partner universities – we send students there for GO Long, but they also have summer schools available.
5. Can my GO Your Way be in the US?
Yes. The cross-cultural requirement is that you spend time immersed in a culture different from your own, which you can find within the US. The emphasis should be on a single culture where an identified grouping of people has shared and passed down traditions from generation to generation.
6. How long does my GO Your Way have to be to meet the requirement?
The cross-cultural requirement is that you spend 14 days immersed in a culture different from your own. That would not include the days you travel to/from your destination.
7. Can GO Your Way programs be a semester long?
No. GO Your Way programs can only be Summer or Winter programs. They cannot be a full semester long. A semester-long program that is not on our approved list is called a non-approved program and requires more planning and paperwork from the student.
8. What are the academic/disciplinary requirements for GO Your Way?
We rely on the requirements of the program/organization you are working with for a GO Your Way program.
9. Are there programs that are for specific majors?
We find that most students participating in a GO Your Way program connect it to their major or future goals.
10. I want to do my GO Your Way with my friend – how can we do that?
You both can propose the same program to GO, most of the time there is a maximum of 4 Susquehanna students on the same GO Your Way program.
11. Do students take academic classes on GO Your Way programs?
Students participating in the SU-in and study programs are taking academic classes. You will need to work with the Registrar’s Office the semester prior to departure to see how the courses may transfer back to Susquehanna.
12. Can I participate in a GO Your Way program in a country where I do not speak the main language?
Yes. Many programs offer the bulk of their courses in English, even in places where English is not the official language. Students who complete a GO Your Way in a place where they do not speak the official language(s) will: opt to enroll in a language course, are required to take a language course, or they will choose to focus exclusively on non-language-based work. In the third case, GO highly recommends students learn at least a few basic phrases in the main language(s) so they can show respect and move comfortably around their host city/country/town. Plus, it is an optimal time to study language, while surrounded by native speakers and with ample space for practice!
13. Where do I live during a GO Your Way program?
Most GO Your Way students will stay in dorms or homestays. This depends on the program itself and would be the responsibility of the student to research.
14. Can friends and family visit me during my program?
No. While on a GO Your Way program, students are not allowed to be visited by friends and family because they are typically short-term, immersive experiences.
15. Is there financial aid available for GO Your Way programs?
You may be eligible for a limited need-based GO Grant. You can find your GO Grant percentage on your profile once you have applied to a program (How to find GO Grant Percentage).
16. When am I billed for a GO Your Way?
Depending on the program, you may not be billed through Susquehanna.
After your program is approved, you will receive access to the list of programs with which Susquehanna has a billing agreement (mostly the programs where we have a GO Long program). If you are participating in a program where there is a billing agreement, you are billed through your student account the semester before GOing.
If you are participating in a GO Your Way program that does not have a billing agreement (or self-designed experience), you are responsible for paying the fees directly to the program.
17. What are the preparation and reflection courses?
GO Programs include mandatory pre-departure and reflection courses.
The preparation course (second 7-weeks of the semester prior to departure; taught on Thursday evenings 7-9 PM) introduces students to the cross-cultural learning goals and how students will achieve them through coursework on campus and on-site. The reflection course (first 7-weeks of the semester after return; taught on Thursday evenings 7-9 PM) focuses on the processing of the experience.
18. How do I register for the Prep and Reflection courses?
The Registrar’s Office registers all students for GO Your Way Programs. These will all appear on a student’s schedule after the commitment deadline.
Each course is a prerequisite for the following course. Students must pass the preparation course to participate in the program, must pass the travel component in order to take the reflection course, and must pass the reflection course in order to complete the GO requirement. You receive a grade based on the materials submitted for each of the components.
19. When and how do I apply?
You will submit your application on go.susqu.edu for the GO Your Way program. Part of the application process includes an initial application and a detailed proposal.
Summer programs:
- Apply: October 15-Februrary 15
Winter programs:
- Apply: March 15-September 15
If you are proposing a program that is using a program provider or host university, after you have received approval from GO you will need to apply to the program provider/university. It is important to complete your GO application/approval first as not all programs fulfill the cross-cultural learning goals.
20. How do I find out about the decision of my application?
Students will receive notification through the GO Management System about the decision for the GO Your Way program. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis after November (for Summer) and March (for Winter). The notification will provide valuable information and links to additional forms that will need to be completed.
21. If I’m accepted, how do I commit to a program?
Students will have until March 1 (summer) and October 1 (winter) to commit to the program by clicking the “Commit” button on their application page in the GO Management System, and read/sign the Post-Approval Acknowledgement Form.