The CISLA Challenge

Go beyond the typical undergraduate experience and explore, learn and work professionally in the international world.

To help meet the challenge of an increasingly global society, Connecticut College launched the Toor-Cummings Center for International Studies and the Liberal Arts (CISLA) in 1989.

THE CISLA MISSION: To create global citizens who are culturally sensitive, politically and socially motivated and intellectually engaged.

THE CISLA EXPERIENCE: As one of the interdisciplinary academic centers, CISLA offers Connecticut College students the opportunity to prepare for the international world of today and tomorrow.

THE CISLA PROCESS:
Freshmen are encouraged to learn about CISLA and come to a variety of information sessions scheduled throughout the year. 

Sophomores formally apply to our Center and are admitted to CISLA during the sophomore year. 

Juniors, once named CISLA scholars,  must reach a certain level of oral proficiency in a foreign language, take courses on the origins and dynamics of contemporary society, complete critical skills workshops and focus on one region of the world and its culture. The summer after the junior year, CISLA scholars spend a funded summer internship in the country of his/her focus.

Seniors complete a Senior Seminar and Integrative Project (S.I.P.) that explores issues related to a major field, the international arena and the foreign language and culture studied.

THE CISLA CERTIFICATE IS GRANTED:

• When foreign language oral proficiency has been certified by an outside tester
• Upon completion of required courses and workshops
• Upon completion of an 8-12 week internship during the summer of the junior year in a foreign country using the foreign language of the area
• Upon completion of a Senior Integrative Project (S.I.P.) directed by a faculty member

Some examples of CISLA internship experiences:

• Study law and take testimony in Russia
• Explore the politics of medicine in China
• Organize classes on health and nutrition for impoverished women in Venezuela
• Work on an ad campaign for the Catholic Church in an agency in Italy
• Participate in a campaign for the eradication of the guinea worm in Niger
• Measure the environmental effects of pollution on the natural habitat of Martinique

CISLA helps make these exciting possibilities a reality!

Last Modified: Thursday, January 31, 2008 15:00