Study Abroad Research Program (SARP)

What is SARP?

Every Fall and Spring Quarter, the Study Abroad Office runs the Study Abroad Research Program (SARP), a small, intensive pre-departure program that focuses on study abroad research. Students are invited to participate based on their background, study abroad goals, and application essays. Read winning research proposals from past SARP participants.

Program goals

  • SARP encourages and prepares students to do research abroad that they can then turn into a senior honors thesis, independent study, fellowship, or postgraduate work when they return.
  • It gives students tools for thinking more deeply about cross-cultural learning and foreign cultures.
  • The program helps students develop stronger connections between students’ study abroad experiences and their academic work on campus.
  • It reflects of the Provost's directive to encourage more research projects among undergraduates.

Program highlights

  • Before departure: Students who accept our invitation to participate in SARP are required to attend a number of pre-departure workshops and to do some preparatory work with one or two faculty advisers during the quarter before they go abroad. By the end of the quarter, they complete a research project proposal, similar to the University/WCAS undergraduate research proposals. The SARP program funds a number of the most promising proposals.
  • While abroad: We hope that the SARP students proceed to carry out their research abroad, either for a course or on their own, and then, when they return, to incorporate their research into other intellectual projects. We especially encourage students to consider doing senior theses, if this is a possibility in their departments.

Research resources for SARP participants

Interested in learning more about SARP?

Contact Robin Leephaibul at the Study Abroad Office.