Studying abroad is an opportunity all students should know about.
Not all classrooms have four walls. On Sept. 21, from 6 to 8 p.m., the Study Abroad Fair took place at Hurricane Plaza. At this event, TU students were able to meet international partners, learn about numerous opportunities abroad and enjoy multicultural food while listening to music. The event provided valuable information to students interested in studying abroad.
The event featured 30 booths, each with information on studying abroad and a variety of study options. These options included destinations such as Australia, New Zealand, Italy, Spain, Japan and many other beautiful places around the world. Some of these places offered study abroad programs and internships during the fall term, spring term, spring break and even the summer. Before selecting a place to study, the assistant director for Studying Abroad recommends checking if the programs align with your major or minors. Many international partners encourage students to study abroad because it advances their careers, fosters cross-cultural and critical thinking skills, and most importantly, provides a new perspective on the world and creates unforgettable memories.
Planning to study abroad can be overwhelming and expensive. However, at the Study Abroad Fair, international partners were available to provide information on numerous scholarships and grant opportunities for students to apply to. They also discussed how financial aid could often be used to cover the costs of studying abroad. It’s crucial to have a specific date in mind for your study abroad plans because some grant opportunities have earlier deadlines. For example, the three-term travel course grant is due on Oct. 25, while all spring travel course grant applications must be submitted by Nov. 15. In the case of the Panama spring break opportunity in 2024, a $1,000 scholarship will be available for the first 15 students who commit. More information on this scholarship will be provided on Oct. 9, from 12 to 1 p.m. in the Hardesty Student Center on the third floor. If you plan on studying abroad during these times, it’s advisable to apply for these scholarships and grants.
Multicultural food was served at the event to those who visited at least 12 out of the 30 booths. The food served was empanadas, spring rolls, white rice and other delicious dishes from various cultures. Students had the opportunity to taste flavors from around the world while conversing with friends who shared their interest in exploring the globe. One student who studied abroad in Spain during the summer of 2023 described the experience as life-changing. She felt that the program had made her a more independent person and had equipped her with the skills to navigate the world. She encouraged students to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study abroad, assuring them that they would not regret it, and she highlighted the aesthetic Instagram-worthy photos they could capture. Additionally, she recommended that students apply for as many grants and scholarships as possible.
Studying abroad has many benefits and is truly an experience to see the world from another perspective. The Study Abroad Fair was successful in presenting enough information for students who are interested in studying abroad. If you want more information on studying abroad visit the Center for Global Engagement on The University of Tulsa website.
