International Experiences

There are three International Experiences the Ivan Allen College would like to share with you:

International Plan

The International Plan is a challenging and comprehensive academic program for undergraduates that develops global competence within the context of a student's major. It is a degree-long program that integrates international studies and experiences into any participating major at Georgia Tech. It helps to prepare Georgia Tech graduates professionally and personally for successful lives in the twenty-first century.

The International Plan is not intended to replace current international programs; it supplements them. Existing study abroad opportunities continue to be offered. It is also not intended to be an add-on to the current degree programs. It is intended to be another curriculum path to earn a degree in which international competence is integrated into the program of study. The plan can be completed within the normal timeframe of four years of undergraduate study.

The overarching model for the International Plan has four components:

  1. Globally Focused Coursework : Three courses to include one from each of the following categories:
    • International Relations
    • Global Economics
    • A course about a specific country or region
  2. International Experience : Two terms abroad (not less than twenty-six weeks) engaged in any combination of study abroad, research, or internship.
  3. Second Language Proficiency : All students in the program are expected to reach at least the proficiency level equivalent to two years of college-level language study. Students who use the language to study, conduct research, or participate in an internship during their international experience are expected to attain a higher level of proficiency. Language proficiency is determined by testing (not course credits).
  4. Culminating Course : A capstone course in the major designed to tie the international studies and experiences together with the student's major.

Completion of the International Plan is recognized by a designation on the student's diploma indicating completion of the degree with global competence. For example: "B.S. in History, Technology & Society: International Plan."

For more information about the International Plan visit the Office of International Education and speak with your academic advisor.

IAC Majors that currently participate in the International Plan:

Language Dorms

Georgia Tech recognizes the shrinking physical boundaries of the world and understands that a modern individual needs to have a global education. In this spirit, we offer two programs designed to bring the world to your doorstep.

The French, German, and Spanish Language Houses, sponsored by the School of Modern Languages, offer an unparalleled opportunity for students who would like to be immersed in a foreign language in their everyday lives. The Community Advisors (akin to Resident Advisors) are generally native speakers who organize activities focused around the cultures that share the language. Each hall is only about twelve people large making for a very personalized and social experience.

Living in a Language House is also great preparation for many of Georgia Tech's foreign exchange programs, international internships, or careers abroad.

Interested? Visit the Language Dorms page on the School of Modern Languages website.

The I-House

The I-House residence brings together domestic and international students to promote cultural exchange and explore the global dynamics of politics, current events, economics, and culture. It is an open living environment for ideas and conversations mixed with the sounds and aromas of an international air.

Additionally, residents actively go beyond the community to seek out other international organizations and clubs on campus and participating in culturally oriented festivals, lectures, and events. These include book clubs, movie nights, lectures, cooking and eating together, museum exhibits, and so on. Often, professors who specialize in the country or region of choice are invited to dine and share their work with students. These are students who have tasked themselves with the mission of making world culture a crucial part of their experience at Georgia Tech.

Interested? Visit the Georgia Tech Housing website for details and the application.

Hear from the students!

The School of Modern Languages website has videos of students who have participated in the International Plan. Hear what they have to say!

"As part of the International Learning/Living Experience (I-House), I constantly hear the inquiring, friendly voice of my hallmate asking, 'Anybody care for a cup of tea?' And I have tasted more Turkish Delight in the past weeks than I ever have in my life. On my hall there are six nationalities represented, in addition to Americans that are passionate about other countries." - Amanda Meng, GEML '08
Go Beyond the Classroom