At Moraine Valley, study abroad transforms classrooms into global adventures

At Moraine Valley Community College, the opportunity to study abroad offers more than just academic credit — it provides an eye-opening experience that can shape a student’s worldview for years to come.

Moraine Valley’s study abroad programs allow students to immerse themselves in new cultures, gain global perspective, and continue their education in some of the most inspiring places around the world.

From sipping coffee in an Athenian café to hiking through Belizean rainforests, studying at a historic university in Northern Ireland, or speaking Spanish on the streets of Seville, the possibilities extend far beyond the traditional classroom.

“Study abroad can be life-changing,” said Merri Fefles-Dunkle, Study Abroad Coordinator and Professor of History and Political Science at Moraine Valley. “Students return with a new sense of confidence, global awareness and academic curiosity. It’s about more than education — it’s about expanding your world.”

Fefles-Dunkle has been a professor at Moraine Valley for 22 years and has directed the study abroad program since 2010 — a role she embraces with enthusiasm.

A graduate of Moraine Valley herself, she grew up in Palos Hills and now lives in Tinley Park. After earning her associate degree, she went on to receive a bachelor’s from Elmhurst College and two graduate degrees — one from Arcadia University and another from Arizona State University.

“I studied abroad in graduate school, and I want to be able to bring that same experience to our students at Moraine Valley,” she said. “Going overseas for the community college demographic — who are working and paying for college at the same time — is really important. It can change their outlook on life.”

Moraine Valley offers a variety of international experiences through both college-specific and consortium-based programs. Students can explore the past in Athens, study ecology in Belize, or take courses at Queen’s University in Northern Ireland.

Through the Illinois Consortium for International Studies and Programs, students also have access to semester and summer programs in cities like Canterbury, Carlow, Dijon, Salzburg, Seville, and even Costa Rica.

The college is also planning two exciting new opportunities: a trip to Greece in late May of 2026, and a faculty-led experience in London during the summer of the same year.

Program costs typically range from $5,000 to $12,000 depending on the destination and currency exchange rates. While these programs require a financial investment, Moraine Valley works to make them accessible. To qualify, students must have completed at least 12 credit hours at the college, maintain a GPA of 2.75 or higher, and earn a grade of B or above in either COM-101 or COM-102.

Fefles-Dunkle encourages students to begin planning early.

“Starting the process ahead of time allows students to explore financial aid options, find the right program, and ensure that their credits transfer,” she said.

Students may use financial aid to cover their at-home tuition, which typically corresponds to tuition overseas. Refunds from financial aid in the prior semester can also be applied to study abroad expenses. Pell Grant recipients are encouraged to apply for the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, and additional funding may be available through the Moraine Valley Community College Foundation.

“We don’t want cost to be the reason someone misses out on this experience,” Fefles-Dunkle said. “There are options — and we’ll help you find them.”

Students interested in studying abroad can learn more and begin their journey by visiting Moraine Valley’s Study Abroad page, contacting Fefles-Dunkle at 708-974-5393 or [email protected], or stopping by her office in Building D, Room 115.

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