An Integrative Capstone Course in Paris, the World’s “City of Light”

 You've worked hard to make the most of your four years at St. John's, and now we want to give you the chance to make the most of your last semester. The Dean of St. John’s College of Liberal Arts and Science, Jeffrey Fagen, Ph.D.and Professor of Theology & Religious Studies Julia Upton, R.S.M., Ph.D. are excited to introduce the spring 2014 Dean’s International Fellowship Program. This program gives our highest-achieving seniors the opportunity to celebrate the culmination of their St. John’s College experience with a week-long trip to Paris, France!

Based around this hybrid distance-learning/study abroad course (THE 3050 Seminar: Shaping a Congruent Life) the program begins in Paris where students will visit many of the city's great historical and religious landmarks, all while studying the history and culture of the city in a theological context. Students will also take part in two Midnight Service Runs, one in Paris and one in New York upon their return.

Think of it as the capstone to your undergraduate studies focused on the value of your St. John’s education and your ability to use a theological lens in integrating your major field of study with ethical analysis, Vincentian values and spiritual practices. 

The best part is, students selected to participate will only be required to pay standard tuition, a $250 deposit and their airfare to and from Paris – nearly all other expenses are paid!

Course:    

• THE 3050: Seminar: Shaping a Congruent Life
  
  This theological reflection seminar will enable students to integrate their university studies (regardless of major) within the framework of religious tradition, Vincentian values and ethical practice. What better place to begin that integration than Paris—the City of Light? (3 credits)

*Course can be used as a 3000-level Theology course or a Liberal Arts Elective

Credits: 3 credits*
Please note: This course will continue through the Spring 2014 semester as a Distance Learning class

Professor:  Julia Upton, R.S.M., Ph.D., Professor of Theology and Religious Studies

Anticipated Travel Dates:  January 6 - January 13, 2014 (7 nights)*
(Please note: Students will arrive in Paris on January 6 and depart from Paris on January 13. You will likely need to travel one day before the arrival date).

Accommodations:   St. John's  Paris Campus

Meals Included:   7 breakfasts, 4 main meals (lunches or dinners depending on the schedule), plus welcome and farewell dinners. Please note that other meals will be eaten independently, so be sure to budget accordingly. 

Costs:  Students are responsible for a $250 non-refundable deposit/program fee, standard tuition and the cost of airfare, plus any incidental costs (souvenirs, some meals, etc.).

*Please Note: Tuition and airfare are in addition to the deposit/program fee. For undergraduate students, this course will be included in their normal semester tuition bill as long as they meet full-time student status (12 to 18 credits). Graduate students will be billed separately for tuition and fees based on the prevailing cost of tuition for their designated college. For additional information on current tuition rates, please click here.

Eligibility Requirements: Undergraduate students must be slated for May 2014 graduation with at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA. The program is open to all majors in St. John’s University with the permission of your advisor or dean.

Anticipated Application Deadline:  September 15, 2013

• Essay Component:   In 250 words, tell the dean what you hope to gain from your study abroad experience. Address the reasons why you believe you should be selected for this seminar,   including what you hope to bring back to the St. John's community upon your return.