February 22, 2016
An Allentown college wants its students to see the world whether they can afford it or not.
Cedar Crest College officials announced Monday they'll be offering a free seven- to 10-day study abroad program to all sophomores with at least a 2.5 GPA.
The program will be available to students who begin taking classes at Cedar Crest in the fall of 2016. Freshmen will be able to embark on the school's first "Sophomore Expedition" in the spring of 2018.
The trip will take place during spring break so no class days will be missed. More important, it won't cost students -- or their parents -- any additional money beyond normal tuition.
“We hope that students will use the experience to learn some things about themselves and learn some things about the world," said Cedar Crest President Carmen Twillie Ambar in a press release.
Cedar Crest's small size -- it enrolls about 1,500 part-time, full-time and graduate students -- means there are only around 150 students per class.
Right now, between 20 and 30 students elect to study abroad through the school each year. The school hopes that by making this trip available, more students will take a second trip during their collegiate careers.
The location of the first Sophomore Expedition trip will be announced during Ambar's fall 2016 convocation address.
