First Semester Study Abroad: Discovery Students

Photo: F. Guazzelli, Florence

Welcome Discovery students!

Discovery awaits – begin your college career abroad at a Syracuse Center in Florence, ItalyMadrid, Spain; or Strasbourg, France.

Syracuse University’s Discovery programs, designed for select first-semester students, provide an international foundation through global education to expand your academic options, foreign language proficiency, and comprehension of global politics.

These programs fulfill the same curricular requirements as first-year students studying at Syracuse University main campus, while providing a unique course schedule specific to your location. Watch our  video: Cultural Exploration and Academic Triumph in Madrid.


You can reach out to Discovery Program Advisor at Syracuse Abroad if you have questions about your program or getting started. You can also check out Syracuse University Admissions details if you have not applied and wish to inquire more about the application.

Want to learn more about your program from students who have already experienced it? Check out our Discovery Program Global Ambassadors! Discovery program alumni are willing to answer your questions via email at any time!

Learn more: Discovery FAQ


Hear from our Discovery Global Ambassadors

g. terry

“I studied abroad in fall 2022 on the Discovery Madrid program. The idea of studying abroad in your first semester of your freshman year can seem pretty intimidating at first, but I can easily say that it was an unforgettable experience that I am incredibly grateful for.”

Gabriella Terry ’26; Discovery Madrid, Fall 2022

Read her story: Discovering Engineering in Madrid