As football season begins, leaves start to change, the cool weather finally arrives, and summer is a fading memory. But every fall, Georgia Tech students begin the application process to spend their summer on Georgia Tech’s Oxford Study Abroad Program. This year, Georgia Tech staff members are being encouraged to apply for a role in the program that has been introducing Georgia Tech students to Europe for almost 20 years.

The program allows students to take classes while visiting major cities in Europe, studying and expanding their global perspective. It also gives Georgia Tech staff, who accompany the students as group leaders, the chance to leave the Atlanta campus and experience new cultures, all while helping students have a safe and successful experience.

“The Oxford program allowed me to interact with staff and students in a format that was completely different from … my normal role at Georgia Tech,” says Mahlet Endale, a psychologist in the Georgia Tech Counseling Center who participated as group leader this past summer. “It was refreshing and eye opening.”

With a demanding schedule — the Europe portion spans eight continental European cities in 30 days — and duties ranging from confirming museum reservations to liaising with the Dean of Students regarding student disciplinary issues, however, the role is best suited for the intrepid traveler.

“The Oxford Program is definitely not a vacation for the group leader. However, every day is an adventure and is filled with amazing sites and stories,” says Brett Hulst, an area manager for Residence Life and veteran group leader.

To apply to become a GT Oxford Study Abroad Program Group Leader for 2011, see the program website. Deadline for applications is October 31.