The Study Abroad Office hosted its biannual Study Abroad Fair in Curtiss Hall on Wednesday, Feb. 7.
Representatives from study abroad partner organizations, faculty leaders sponsoring faculty-led trips and various members of RSOs such as the International Student Club and Global Community were present.
Study Abroad coordinator Aileen Ash stressed the importance of the fair, which gave students the opportunity to explore various study abroad programs.
“There are so many options for study abroad that we wanted to give students the chance to interact with faculty-led trip leaders or program providers to find their perfect program match,” Ash said. “Deciding on a study abroad program can seem like an overwhelming process, and the fair gives students a chance to explore all that SVSU offers.”
Second-year biology major Rebecca Bowen enjoyed the fair because it gave her an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about her desired trips.
“The study abroad fair was cool because I got to talk to someone one-on-one and get further information on study abroad trips that I am interested in,” Bowen said. “I’m planning on going to Costa Rica and England next year, so to talk to people about what those trips will be like is very beneficial.”
Second-year finance major Ashley Bohdaine agreed that the fair helped her solidify her future study abroad plans.
“I was really interested in learning about studying abroad, so I wanted to see what new opportunities were here for next fall and winter,” Bohdaine said. “After visiting the fair, I know for sure that I want to take a faculty-led trip. Now I just have to decide where.”
Study abroad peer adviser Zach Mixter hopes students attending the fair realized they can afford to study abroad.
“I hope students take away the understanding that studying abroad is possible for everyone,” Mixter said. “There are literally hundreds of options for students for any major or minor for anytime of the year. Semester, year-long, summer and academic break programs are all offered for SVSU students. In fact, it can even be more affordable to study abroad than go to SVSU for a semester.”
As a student who has traveled extensively, Mixter stressed the importance of studying abroad.
“I cannot stress enough how much studying abroad will enrich your experience in college and in life,” Mixter said. “Studying abroad teaches you things you didn’t know you could learn and helps you understand cultures that you thought were distant and unreachable. It really helps shape you into a global citizen.”
Mixter emphasized that those interested in studying abroad should visit the Study Abroad Office in
Wickes Hall 230.
“It can be overwhelming looking at info for study abroad programs by yourself when you have no idea what’s the norm or what’s important to focus on,” Mixter said. “We can help you start the process and find the right location and time for you to go abroad.”
