None can argue against the expansive opportunities experienced by just attending college. So, congratulations! You are already on the road to becoming a more engaged and well-rounded human being. However, as much as college can broaden your horizons, nothing shapes your perspective like leaving behind all that is familiar and immersing yourself in the unfamiliar. Are you interested?

If you said yes, then studying abroad might just be for you. Study abroad programs offer students the opportunity to immerse themselves in another country and culture while often earning academic credit. Studying abroad will help you grow academically, personally and professionally. You will build the confidence, soft skills and professional network needed for the global job market.

According to the Office of International Education and Study Abroad, South offers over 800 programs in 60 countries to students who are ready to learn outside of the traditional classroom. They offer study abroad, internships and service learning experiences worldwide, spanning from 10-day programs to a full academic year abroad.

Their office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with walk-in advising available on Thursday from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  But, for the opportunity to obtain first-hand information, attend the upcoming Study Abroad Fair on Sept. 25 in the downstairs lobby of the Student Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The fair will offer students the opportunity to learn about the various programs, speak directly to faculty program leaders and explore scholarship opportunities. Attendees can also receive information about obtaining passports, and talk with study abroad advisors, ambassadors and exchange students. Additionally, students will be able to gain insight about the application process, deadlines, and costs, which vary by program. 

It is a great opportunity to speak to people who have previously participated in the program. Known as ambassadors, these students were once in your position, curious about the experience.  

According to Destani Alvarado, a Study Abroad Ambassador, it was the experience of a lifetime. She walked away from her program in Italy, feeling like she had a greater sense of “cultural competency and global awareness.” Alvarado described feeling “humbled” by her immersion in a different culture with a different language. She returned home with a commitment to extending  “grace to those visitors to our own country.”

Studying abroad is open to all majors across various disciplines. Course credits are typically included as part of the opportunity. For those less interested in course credit, affiliate partner programs offer opportunities focused on cultural immersion, career development internships and volunteerism. 

Exchange students will also be present to showcase their countries and offer insights on spending an extended time away from home. Some attend South for a semester, while others stay for an entire academic year. For those interested in becoming an exchange student, these individuals serve as invaluable resources.

This is not the only Study Abroad fair scheduled for this academic year. Another fair is planned for the third week of November, with a possible additional event in early spring 2025.