Georgia State showcased several Fall/Spring semester and Maymester Study Abroad programs today in the Urban Life Center.
The programs featured many different locations, from China to Britain to the Dominican Republic, and a constant stream of students flowing in and out of the center showed the obvious interest that Georgia State students have in taking courses outside of the country. Among the kiosks, the Nottingham (England) and Spanish study programs garnered the most attention.
After walking around for several minutes, Jelaine Howard (Jr.) explained her interest in European studies. When asked which program most caught her attention and why, she confirmed Europe’s popularity.
“I would say Italy is most appealing to me.” Howard said. “The culture and food there seems like it’s great, as well as the sense of fashion”.
When asked what the most appealing aspect of studying abroad is, Howard emphasized the importance of culture. “Getting experience in another culture and getting out of your comfort zone is definitely very tempting. Exploring different places and meeting different types of people is very interesting to me. I definitely feel like you appreciate American culture more after seeing another country’s.”
Howard also expressed her discontent with the pricing of many of the available Study Abroad programs, and Director of Study Abroad Programs, Mr. Jeremy Billetdeaux admits that the affordability of the programs is an ongoing issue.
“Some of the programs are very expensive, and that largely depends on the locations and excursions included”, Billetdeaux explains. “We’re looking to counter the problem by creating more short term programs, as well as finding more scholarship funding for students. Corporate sponsorships, Cultural Organizations, Embassies, and Consolates are all factors that we use to find funding, but we still believe that students should be extensive effort into planning their studies. It’s all a part of the University Strategic Plan”.
Billetdeaux believes that all students should be allowed to study abroad, as it helps in the competitive global market. “If it were up to me, all students would be required to study abroad. It increases global perspective, and helps students master skills with problem solving, adaptability, and foreign languages.”
Although the Study Abroad fair was today, there is still plenty of time left for students to investigate and learn about the many locations available for study. Many of the applications for study aren’t due until April, and the Study Abroad office is located at 10 Park Place for all student’s interested.
