Returning to New York

“Over this year, we’ve felt the pains and ecstasies of adjusting to something completely unlike anything we’ve experienced before. And now we take our final exams, pack up our lives, and go home. We have been lucky to come, and we are lucky to have somewhere to return to. There is no one who can say they have not been changed by this experience. We’ve spent this year learning about the world, and as it wraps up, it’s time to carry away with us everything that we also learned about ourselves.” -Alice Adams, Read the full story 

Support for Returning Students 

One of the most common questions we hear from students and families is: “What happens after the First Year Abroad?” At Marist, your journey doesn't end in Florence or Dublin—it expands. We’ve designed a smooth and supportive transition for students returning to our main campus in Poughkeepsie, New York, for their sophomore year.

Reorientation: A Thoughtful Transition Back

As your first year abroad wraps up, you’ll participate in a Reorientation Program that helps you reflect on your global experience and prepare for life back in the U.S. This includes:

• Guidance on academic planning and major advising
• Conversations about campus life and involvement
• Sessions to help you integrate your international experience into your sophomore year goals

Early Move-In & Campus Mentorship

Students returning from abroad arrive on the Poughkeepsie campus before the rest of the sophomore class. This gives you a head start to:

• Settle into your housing
• Meet fellow returnees and campus staff
• Get reacquainted with life in New York
• You’ll also be matched with a Peer Mentor—a Marist student who previously completed the same First Year Abroad program. Your mentor is a valuable resource for navigating academics, student life, and social connections back on campus.

Housing Priority with the Points You’ve Earned

Marist uses a Priority Points system to determine housing placement. As a First Year Abroad student, you automatically earn priority housing points, giving you an advantage in the sophomore housing process.

Stay Connected with Your Global Community

Just because your year abroad has ended doesn’t mean the experience is over. The Office of International Programs keeps the First Year Abroad community connected through:

• Exclusive on- and off-campus events for program alumni
• Opportunities for continued global learning and leadership
• Networking events and reunions throughout your time at Marist

Your Marist Experience: Broadened, Not Interrupted

The First Year Abroad is just the beginning of your Marist journey. Whether you studied in Florence or Dublin, your return to Poughkeepsie is met with purpose, connection, and opportunity.

Still have questions? We're here to help you plan your global start—and strong return.