John W. Schwieter

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Program Leaders & Key Players

SP200*: Study Abroad is a student-centred learning experience. The program is led and directed by a Laurier supervising professor who is supported by study abroad assistants and an international liaison at the host institution. Because of the diverse logistics of the program, each year different support staff is appointed by the supervising professor to accommodate not only the size of the group, but also the needs of the customized package and specific destination abroad. The main duties and responsibilities for these key players are described below.

Supervising Professor. The supervising professor directs the study abroad experience and is responsible for ensuring an excellent academic experience abroad. He/she negotiates and customizes the study abroad program package and academic content directly with the host institution, administers the financial accounts, and oversees the operation and organization of the entire trip. The supervising professor accompanies the SP200 group on all excursions and day trips, supervises the assistants, and is available for consultation during the entire experience abroad.

Assistant to the Supervising Professor. The assistant to the supervising professor helps oversee logistics and clerical issues of the entire study abroad experience. He/she accompanies the SP200 group on all excursions and day trips and is available for consultation during the entire experience abroad.

Study Abroad Assistant. The study abroad assistant helps with all issues related to student affairs and ensures student safety, satisfaction, and support. He/she provides guidance and assistance to students with health and safety issues, risk management, host families, travel insurance, and other issues approved by the supervising professor. The study abroad assistant accompanies the SP200 group on all excursions and day trips and is available for consultation during the entire experience abroad.

Instructional Assistant. The instructional assistant helps with all academic issues. He/she also facilitates extracurricular discussions, activities, and workshops that further apply the target language and culture, in addition to other activities approved by the supervising professor. The instructional assistant accompanies the SP200 group on all excursions and day trips and is available for consultation during the entire experience abroad.

Senior International Liaison. The senior international liaison is the director of the host institution abroad and thus serves as the official link between the partner institution and the SP200 program. He/she works closely with the SP200 program leaders to ensure a safe and successful learning experience. He/she is available for consulation during the entire experience abroad.

Dr._Schwieter2.jpg Dr. John W. Schwieter, Supervising Professor (2007- )