Study-in-America 2018

Study-in-America plans announced at News Conference 

By: Ammon Ockletree,  A_O132@txstate.edu

SAN MARCOS, Texas -Yesterday, early Thursday morning the School of Mass Communication and Journalism announced the planned destinations for the Study-in America program 2018 trip. This year marks the second anniversary for the programs existence. With plans of traveling from state to national parks reaching from Texas to Utah.

Texas State Lecturer, Nicole Hengst, announced the planned destinations the Study-in -America program plans to attend with selected students this summer. These destinations consist of:

• Caprock Canyon State Park

• Zion National Park

• Grand Canyon

• Mesa Verde National Park

• Great Sand Dunes National Park

• Palo Duro Canyon State Park

The 14-day trip offers SJMC students two courses accumulating six hours in credit.

 When asked whether 14 days might cause tension amongst the group? 

"The interview process would help weed out some of the attitude coming into program," said Hengst.

 Founder, Dale Blasingame started the program after developing a relationship with parks and wildlife. Gaining support from the Office of Distance and Extended learning in the process. 

Last year, students stayed within the Texas and New Mexico region, visiting Marfa, Carl's Bat Cavern, Big Bend National Park, White Sands National Monument etc.

The trip is a chance for students to gain class credit from a different perspective.

"We're trying to encourage young people from this generation to take advantage of parks and services while finding value in them," said Hengst.

Students will still be required to upload assignments daily while in parks. Students assignments range from documentaries to social media posts. "I hope the content students create could help create jobs and opportunities for students," said Hengst.

The mission is for students to promote with social media.

For students wanting to attend, Mass Communication week will be important!

Students elected would be required to pay $750 per course. In addition, to a $900 program fee covering 14 days of traveling, lodging and some food. Financial aid can be beneficial for students with financing trip.

Posted by: Ammon Ockletree at 9:59 PM