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Orientation

Orientation

The Bard-AUCA study abroad program begins with a comprehensive online pre-departure training. Upon arrival in Bishkek, students undertake a two-day orientation that focuses on program expectations (academic and behavioral), health and safety information, cultural adjustment strategies, and an introduction to life in Kyrgyzstan.

  • Where to Eat in Bishkek
  • What to Do in Bishkek

Housing Options at AUCA

Students may choose from two housing options:

Host family: Homestays foster language acquisition and provide a support network outside of AUCA. Our host families know that language acquisition is important to students and are often ready to spend time talking with them, answering their questions, and sometimes even helping with homework. Students have a private room, with access to a washing machine, and are provided two meals a day. The host family also provides clean linens. Families chosen to host Bard Abroad students are interviewed at home by members of the AUCA on-site staff.

Residence hall: Located in the 6th Microdistrict, a residential area of Bishkek, the residence hall is close to movie theaters, bowling, shopping, and the new AUCA campus. Bard Abroad students have access to Wi-Fi, laundry, study area, a common space, kitchen, and large courtyard. The rooms are doubles with linens, blankets and one towel provided. Students can prepare their own meals in the kitchen area or purchase meals at local eateries. There is a bazaar with shops in front of the dorm where students can buy food. There are also two restaurants in the bazaar and several nearby cafes that offer regional and Turkish food.

Student Activities and Clubs

At AUCA there is a wealth of extracurricular opportunities available to students. Not only are there numerous longstanding organizations on campus that operate in such diverse areas as student dance and theater, young entrepreneurship, and sports; but there is also the opportunity for students to pursue their own unique interests with the backing of the Student Life Office.

Some of the clubs and organizations that make up AUCA’s vibrant campus life:

  • Anthropology Club
  • Cheerleading Club
  • Rotaract Club (charity club)
  • New Star (student newspaper)
  • Football Club
  • Basketball Club
  • Volleyball Club
  • Ultimate Frisbee
  • “Mirrors” Student Theater
  • Unity Fund charity club
  • AIESEC Club (an international nonprofit organization that provides students with leadership training and internship opportunities)
  • Green Campus Group (a group of enterprising staff, faculty, and students who are working together to help the community move toward more sustainable lifestyles and enjoy the challenge of AUCA Green Life)
  • Japanese Club
  • Diversity Week (held every March, where many international students represent their culture, cuisine, and dances)
  • ENACTUS (students in free enterprise) 
  • AUCA Student Senate (a Bard Abroad student serves on the AUCA Student Senate)
  • Debate club 
  • AUCA TV 
  • AUCA Drama Club
  • Student Intellectual Life Committee (supports student-initiated projects, professional development opportunities, and student research)

Connect with Bard Abroad

  • Bard Abroad on Facebook
  • Bard Abroad on Instagram
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Annandale-on-Hudson, New York 12504-5000
Phone: 845-758-6822
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