Students interested in learning more about expanding their horizons through travel have the chance to attend International Services’ Study Abroad Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 3 in the breezeway between Griffin and Howard Hall.
“We will have representatives from 22 organizations, mostly third party providers that run different types of programs around the world,” said Matt Ryan, the assistant director of study abroad programs. “In addition, we will have representatives from FGCU’s internships and co-op programs to provide information about experiential learning possibilities.”
International Services “provides overall leadership to Florida Gulf Coast University in developing, coordinating and promoting international education opportunities for students and professionals,” according to www.fgcu.edu/international.
The office has held several events during this semester, including an international orientation on Monday Jan. 4 and Tuesday Jan. 5, an exchange student orientation on Tuesday Jan. 5, as well as several study abroad information sessions.
“We have weekly information sessions announced on our websites at different days of the week,” Ryan said. “If students are unable to attend (the fair), they can schedule an appointment with staff.”
Preparation for the fair began with International Services reaching out to study abroad program providers.
“Each provider will have a table set up by expert representatives and materials to present to interested students,” Ryan said. “International Services is organizing the logistics and promotion for the event.”
Ryan is hoping that attendees will consider studying abroad after going to the fair, even if they already have before.
“Our goal for the study abroad fair is two-sided,” Ryan said. “On the one hand, we hope that students that have never considered a study abroad trip during their college careers become intrigued and interested and those that have already considered studying abroad become educated with the options and specific information.”
International Services will be hosting a reception celebrating its 20th anniversary on Friday, Sept. 16, the longest running annual celebration at FGCU.
Students looking for more information about International Services or studying abroad can visit the resource room located in Reed Hall, or visit websites dedicated to travelling abroad, such as www.goabroad.com or www.abroad101.com.