By Ryan Pickle ’24, staff writer 

LVC is offering its Maastricht summer study abroad program once again, and they welcome students with open arms.  

A four-week program, LVC is taking students to Maastricht, Netherlands, hoping to leave their comfort zone. Students who go on the trip will earn six credits by participating in two courses, one being a mandatory intercultural communication class. 

One of the classes offered is business in the European Union (EU). Dr. Kimberlee Josephson, associate professor of business administration, shared her excitement about the class offering.  

“My idea for the course is to take some current events that are going on in the EU and integrate them into class topics,” Josephson said. “I want to focus on the business side of the EU, the marketing and management in the European context.” 

Maastricht, Netherlands is a prime location for this study abroad opportunity. The school is only one hour away from Brussels, the center of political activity in the EU. 

Since the Maastricht study abroad program has been running for some time now, Josephson said that this is the best study abroad program to join. 

“This program is a well-oiled machine, so the learning curve in that regard is very minimal,” she said. “We can focus right away on enjoying being there, exploring the area and starting the course.” 

Josephson shared her interest in the fun and educational field trips that classes have experienced in the past. 

“I want to leverage the site visits to places like a chocolate company, breweries and bicycle factory,” she said. “There is a pretty famous amusement park not far from Maastricht University, and I thought it would be cool to do a business strategy comparison between Hersheypark and this amusement park.” 

With many students uncertain about a potential learning experience beyond borders, Josephson ensured that students will have a summer like no other. 

“This is for any student who is looking for a really good experience, someone who wants to push their comfort levels, who wants exposure to a different culture and run with it,” she said. “You don’t need to be a business major, and you won’t be lost.” 

Rising sophomores, juniors and seniors of any major with a 2.5 GPA or greater are welcome to apply.  

The deadline for applications is approaching fast, with a first deposit payment due Thursday, Feb. 1.  

Josephson welcomes students with any questions about the study abroad program to reach out to her at josephso@lvc.edu.