ReIntegration Program

Historically, approximately 20 percent of each graduating class has participated in Off-Campus Study. When these students return to Wooster, many struggle when navigating their reintegration to campus life. Studying abroad is a life-changing experience. When our students return, their experiences have often led to a change in values and exposure to a more global perspective from which to view the world. Some students return to find that the academic fields they have been studying no longer hold any interest for them. Many find that their interests and priorities have changed. Some students go back oversees as soon as possible rather than making a transition back to life in the United States and at Wooster.

Students who have recently returned to campus from their off-campus study will be invited to attend evening suppers held in the home of the Lilly Project. The Assistant Director or a member of Wooster’s wider community who has had rich experience abroad will host these events. During the program, participants will discuss their experiences as well as issues that they have had to face since returning to campus. They will also explore ways in which their experiences off campus have enhanced or changed their sense of self and purpose. The goal of the program is for students to be able to reflect on their off-campus experiences in communities made up of individuals who have shared similar experiences and who are facing similar challenges. By exploring vocation through readings and discussions centered around the topics of justice, theodicy, cross-cultural compassion, the meaning of human suffering, community building, service, social issues, and individual conscience, students will be encouraged to consider their summer as it relates to "call" and deep vocational issues both before and after (as well as during their internship period).

This community support will enhance the experience of Off-Campus Study in ways that help develop a global perspective, introduce skills for integrating a life-changing experience into one’s everyday life, and increase the awareness of a community that stretches far beyond Wooster’s campus.

Below are the themes for each week:

Seeing Through New Eyes

Human Nature and American Nature

Suffering and Hope

Ask Me What I'm Living For

Click here to see the 2007 flyer!