For incoming Pepperdine freshmen, this is one of the most frequently asked questions, second only to one’s major and hometown. The class of 2016 has been inundated with exciting information regarding the International Programs and the incredible experiences that going abroad next year can offer.
Yet, some students question whether these statements are exaggerated.
“They play it up too much,” said freshman Kevin Hoffman. “But I do think it is necessary to get a good international perspective.”
Freshman Evan Blumer even ventured to say that the focus on International programs as a recruiting tool is essential for the retention rate.
Whatever the motives behind Pepperdine’s noteworthy study abroad rate (a consistent 60 percent to 70 percent of graduates, according to IP Director of Admissions and Student Affairs Jeff Hamilton), some students seem increasingly preoccupied with the decision of which program to choose. To shed light on this, The Return made sure to include information on the many opportunities the Malibu campus offers for remaining sophomores.
Hamilton said that the purpose of The Return event is to, “Welcome the returning students, welcome the freshmen and say goodbye to this year’s seniors … to be opening and welcoming to all.”
When asked if going abroad is essential for students’ growth, Hamilton said, “It is my personal belief that students who study abroad are not the only ones with transformative sophomore years. Change happens at any time a student is open to change.”
It seems that much of the freshmen class is divided between giddy anticipation and hesitant skepticism.
The Return took place at Alumni Park on Thursday, Aug., 30 and showcased booths of the six programs, along with the programs offered at the Malibu campus for sophomores who stay. While the programs competed with each other for the attendees’ attention, all IP veterans could agree that leaving Malibu had its advantages.
One perk lies in the ease of creating close relationships while abroad.
“I had a hard time getting involved my freshman year,” said Mackenzie Taylor, a junior recently having returned from Florence.
“An introverted person like me can come back and dance in public,” Haley Clayton said, attributing her new confidence to her sophomore experiences in Buenos Aires.
Another emphasis is placed on the cultural perspective students gain from living in new places.
“You can see America from the outside,” said junior Joshua Ueckert, returned from Heidelberg. “You can get a lot of things from both places, but Malibu cannot give you a new world view.”
According to returning students, the most valuable impact of leaving Malibu lies in this fresh perspective, both in relation to the American culture, but also to oneself.
“You’re forced to learn about yourself and become culturally aware … to see without the rose-colored glasses that is America,” said junior Vera Yuan after her year in Shanghai.
However, even those who chose not to travel are given consideration. This year, Housing and Residence Life offers six themed housing options in Malibu, with no additional cost to tuition. “You get to find out how cool L.A. is and see everything that Malibu has to offer,” said Taylor Kruse, part of the Year Two staff- a group which caters specifically to the sophomore class
Additionally, “You get to know a lot more people, all of the classes above and below you,” said Year Two staff member Phoenix Eyre, explaining that students who go abroad their sophomore year only know the people in the junior and senior classes upon return.
