Civic identity means…
- Developing deep self-knowledge
- Perceiving yourself as part of a community(ies)
- Considering your own role and responsibilities in your community(ies)
The Smith Center
The Smith Center offers local to global engagement opportunities that extend St. Olaf’s liberal arts learning to communities locally and around the world.
Welcome to Study Abroad/Away
Photos across the Smith Center’s website have been captured by students during their programs
St. Olaf College is among the most highly ranked baccalaureate institutions for study abroad participation, as measured by the Institute of International Education Open Doors reports. Our financial aid and scholarships bring study abroad/away within reach of every Ole! See all our data on the High Impact Practices dashboard for study abroad/away.
762 Oles
studied abroad/away in 2025-26
70%
of the Class of 2025 participated in at least one study abroad/away program
41
countries (including the U.S.) hosted Oles in the 2024-25 academic year
The 5Cs: Our Guiding Principles for Study Abroad/Away
Community knowledge means…
- Learning about a community before you enter it
- Continuing to learn about a community
- Considering many different kinds of community(ies)
Cultural humility & curiosity mean:
- Cultivating an humble mindset about cultures–your own and others
- Turning toward curiosity when we’re uncertain
- Being open to changing ourselves as we learn about other cultures
Connectedness means…
- Identifying links between people, our relationships, and our interdependence
- Paying attention to power, privilege, and positionality within a community
- Recognizing the value and complexity of collaboration
Changemaking means…
- Committing to change within yourself and your communities
- Developing your personal resourcefulness and resilience
- Taking action toward responsible change