Study Abroad: The World is Your Classroom

One exciting opportunity Oklahoma Christian University offers students is the chance to study abroad and experience the richness of a different country.

John Osborne has served as director of the Office of International Programs for the past 25 years. In this role, Osborne oversees global partnerships and develops the university’s study abroad programs. Eli McCoy, a study abroad specialist, focuses on recruiting students and processing applications.

Both Osborne and McCoy said they are excited to share their love of traveling and experiencing different cultures with students. 

“Together, the two of us make sure all students (and their families) are ready for the transformational experience that is Study Abroad,” McCoy said. “Study Abroad is exactly that, a transformational experience. We believe that the world awaits your story, so whether it’s Europe or Asia, we know God is going to do something in your life that will bring you home to a different person. This is the heart of all of our programs–2 weeks over New Years, a full semester, or over the summer to Europe or Asia–they are designed to engage with the local culture and history.”

McCoy said students can expect a fully immersive academic experience abroad.

“Students can expect to make the world their classroom–field trips, day trips, group excursions, you name it,” McCoy said. “The courses we have to offer are designed to be taught in country. Yes, there are class times and appropriate assignments but students should expect to get out of the classroom and engage with their surroundings.”

Sophomore Rylee Cherry studied abroad during the spring 2025 semester. She described the experience as a dream come true.

“I had dreamed of studying abroad for pretty much as long as I can remember, so it was surreal to have the opportunity to live it out,” Cherry said. “We got to see some of the most beautiful places and meet the most incredible people. Vienna is a magical city. I loved exploring as much of it as I could, both with my friends and by myself. The experience taught me how to walk with courage, kindness and how to be intentional about seeking out God’s lovely things in the everyday.”

Cherry said she made some of her favorite memories while abroad.

“One of my absolute favorite memories and places that we traveled to was Cinque Terre, Italy (the town that inspired “Luca”). This place has been on my bucket list forever,” Cherry said. “We spent the day exploring the city, sitting on the beach, and watching the sunset over the colourful houses and ocean. The day I could go to the cafe around the corner from Das Mill in Vienna and order my hot chocolate in German was also a pretty great day.”

Junior Carson Mauck studied abroad during the 2024 winter session. He said his academic advisor introduced him to the study abroad program and encouraged him to earn another Bible credit while traveling abroad.

“I had a wonderful experience going to Vienna, Austria,” Mauck said. “My favorite place was probably visiting Schonbrunn palace. The view of the palace from the top of the hill is worth the trip alone.”

Although he did not initially have any close friends on the trip, Mauck encourages others not to let it be a deciding factor.

“Students should not be worried about variables like not having friends or going to a new place,” Mauck said. “You can find amazing new friends and make so many new memories across the world that will change your life.”

Cherry also encourages students to embrace new challenges.

“My biggest advice would be to push yourself outside your comfort zone and just go for it,” Cherry said. “Be open to learn about new cultures and remember to stay present, but most importantly, let yourself be brave and see God’s creation.”

Osborne and McCoy are currently recruiting students for the 2025 winter session in Vienna. The two-week program will take place between Christmas and the start of the spring semester, allowing students to ring in the New Year in the city of music. The trip will be led by John Fletcher and Jeremy Beller.
To learn more about the opportunity to study abroad, follow this link.