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Printer-Friendly ModePack up and head out: Study abroad fair attracts travelers
October 5, 2009 —
Each year, about 100 Cardinals pack their bags and travel the world. But a journey of a thousand miles always starts with the first step.
The Study Abroad program held its fair Wednesday to exhibit opportunities for students interested in an education beyond U.S. borders. Presented in the Student Activities Room, the fair embraced a variety of experiences.
“It opens your eyes to the fact that the U.S. is not the only place in the world,” said recent SVSU graduate Megan Olpere, who went on a spring trip to the Czech Republic.
Many travelers said it changed their perception of the world and renewed their sense of diversity.
Stephanie Sieggreen, assistant director of International Studies, said she can see the difference in students.
“You see a major positive transition from when they leave and when they come back,” she said.
Many returning Cardinals, she added, tell her they feel they could now accomplish anything they wanted to.
Study abroad offerings include faculty-led and independent programs with both general education and elective classes. Students choose courses Study abroad offerings include facultyled and independent programs with both general education and elective classes. Students choose courses based on their majors of study at SVSU and the experience can go on their résumés.
When students aren’t in class, they might be taking excursions, attending local events or trying new things, like taking part in Spanish wine tasting or enjoying an Irish mountain view.
In the past five years, the Study Abroad program has doubled in student numbers, and its available sites have gone from 25 to about 100.
Trips can last between two weeks and a year. Scholarships and financial aid are available. For more information, visit theStudy Abroad Web site.