II. Considering Program Leadership

LC Overseas & Off-Campus Programs place students in the global classroom where history, culture, and contemporary issues are studied firsthand. Direct interactions give students the opportunity to better understand host country institutions and values, which they can then compare and contrast those of the U.S. Students become dynamic global citizens who recognize and appreciate the cultural influences underpinning some of the world’s most pressing and persistent problems as well as their proposed solutions.

Choosing a program

Leaders most often lead one of our established programs. For a list of current programs, including information on program dates, general itineraries, partner institutions and academic courses, please visit our programs webpage. See also the the leader application form and preferred qualifications for each overseas program.

Faculty may also create their own programs by submitting a proposal that includes specific logistics, in-country contacts, and proposed itinerary. Proposal templates are on our website under Resources for Faculty and Advisors.

Understanding the role of an LC overseas and off campus program leader

LC leaders of overseas programs are expected to handle a wide range of responsibilities that extend far beyond the on-campus duties of classroom instruction and academic mentoring. Leaders are expected to guide program participants’ experiential learning processes in the host country, coaching students when needed, and leading by example. They also provide significant pastoral care and wear many ‘hats’ before, during, and after the program. Students will likely call on leaders for assistance with personal affairs and leaders will need to provide support in this realm. You should expect to take on tasks that are typically covered by Student Life departments on campus, such as trips to the doctor, or being available after hours, or discussing personal issues such as anxiety or homesickness.

Leaders are also expected to maintain positive working relationships with in-country coordinators and staff. Overseas & Off Campus Programs require leaders to remain highly accessible at all times, to quickly and creatively address unforeseen difficulties and learning opportunities, and to represent Lewis & Clark College to host communities. Meticulous record keeping and good communication skills are absolutely necessary.

Other considerations when deciding whether to lead an overseas program

When deciding whether to lead a program, it is important to answer several preliminary questions addressing professional, personal and logistical considerations. The following questions should be thought through thoroughly as your answers will help to shape your program leader proposal:

• Have you led a program before? If so, which one and what would you change this time around?
• What does it mean, to you, to be the leader of the program? What do you see as your role?
• What will you be looking for as you interview students? How will you select students?
• How do you deal with illness and disciplinary issues?
• What would you contribute to the program?
• What are your goals for the whole program? What do you want the students to walk away with?
• What is your vision for the orientation process?
• How will leading a program impact your teaching and research on campus? Your family?

Additionally, you should speak to past program leaders for their input. Ask them what ‘surprises’ their experience entailed, as well as any other questions that you feel may be of help to you as you decide whether, when, and how to lead a program. Past program leaders are an invaluable resource who will be able to offer good advice regarding nearly every aspect of your program, from proposal to post-program re-entry. Please see our comprehensive list of past leader information.

How to apply to lead

1. Apply
   Interested leader candidates must submit proposals to the Overseas & Off-Campus Programs Committee (OOPC) in order to be considered. The call for applications to lead programs is typically made two years in advance. Please fill out a leader application form from our website, have your department chair sign it, and submit it to the Director of Overseas & Off-Campus Programs. The Director will then submit all applications to the Dean’s Office for signature and then OOPC for review. Application instructions and deadlines are posted on our website under Resources for Faculty and Advisors.
2. OOPC Review
   After you have submitted your application to lead a program, it will be considered by the Overseas & Off Campus Programs Committee (OOPC). You may be asked to attend an OOPC meeting to discuss your proposal and your preparedness to lead an overseas program.
3. Acceptance and Program Planning
   Once you are selected as program leader, you will work closely with the Overseas & Off-Campus Programs office to plan for program logistics, academics, and student recruitment.