First Semester Abroad
Panama City, Panama | Fall
Spend your first semester as an FSU student at FSU Panama — Florida State's only international branch campus. The First Semester Abroad (FSA) program at FSU Panama offers the opportunity to pursue general requirements and elective courses in a variety of curriculums while living in Panama during the fall semester of your first year in college. Learn alongside students from all over Latin America and the Caribbean for a truly unique cross-cultural immersion experience. Free time for personal travel allows you the chance to explore on your own, fostering new friendships along the way. After the program, you'll return to Tallahassee for the spring semester with new friends and fond memories from your time abroad.
Eligibility
This program is open to all incoming first-year students admitted to FSU for the summer or fall terms, including those offered admission through Seminole Pathways.
Other Considerations & Requirements
You can indicate your interest in the First Semester Abroad program when you apply to FSU. Learn more about the FSU application process and Seminole Pathways on the FSU Admissions website.
All participants must attend a special session of New Nole Orientation in Tallahassee, typically held in early to mid-June. Summer & Seminole Pathway admits must also successfully complete an online course (grade of "C" or better) offered by International Programs during the Summer B semester prior to going abroad (late June – early August).
Note: Do not purchase airline tickets until advised to do so in the IP portal.
FSU Panama Branch Campus
The only FSU branch campus abroad, FSU Panama is situated in the City of Knowledge, a complex shared by educational organizations and NGOs. The FSU Panama building has classrooms, a computer lab, wellness room, admin offices, and more. The City of Knowledge offers various amenities to FSU students, including a basketball court, pool, and local bakeries and restaurants.
Housing
You'll live in dorm-style residences within the City of Knowledge complex, just a short walk or shuttle ride away from the FSU Panama classroom building. Each room has air conditioning, Wi-Fi, a bathroom, desk, mini-fridge, and balcony. Downstairs, you'll have access to the student lounge area and fully-equipped kitchen. You'll also have access to a coin-operated laundry room and vending machines.
Note: Overnight guests are not allowed in program housing.
View Housing Photos
Academics
On this program, you can choose from a wide array of courses which may count toward your major or minor. You’ll have the opportunity to learn alongside students from all over Latin America & the Caribbean for a truly immersive cross-cultural experience.
As a First Semester Abroad student, you will take at least 15 credit hours while abroad.
Excursions & Activities
You'll receive a program calendar before you leave; here are some examples taken from past programs of potential excursions & activities you may do:
Overnight trip: Bocas del Toro, Azuero Peninsula, highlands of Panama, or San Blas Islands
Day trips: Jungle safari tour, beach & snorkeling trip, visits to Embera indigenous communities, nature trips, agro-tourism farm, Portobelo & San Lorenzo forts, and/or various tropical islands
Academic & other local experiences: Panama Canal visitor center, Panama Viejo, tours of colonial & metropolitan areas, eco-canal tour, and/or other historic sites
Extracurricular activities: Panamanian cuisine cooking classes, dance classes, volunteer opportunities, student government and clubs, and/or sports activities
Included in the Fee
Academic Credit
15-17 credits
Housing Abroad
Shared dorm style
Excursions & Activities
Some Meals
Some breakfasts & group dinners
International Health Insurance
On-Site Pastoral Support
Admin & Academic Support
And More!
Including: visa application fee; scheduled group airport pick-up
