By Michael Youmans
Rotunda ReporterOn Thurs., Sept. 9 in the Lankford Student Union Ballroom, the annual Study Abroad Fair was held. Representatives working with various programs set around the world were on hand at the fair to explain how the programs work. Some of the countries that students were able to look deeper into were the United Kingdom, Spain, Greece, Ireland, Germany, Eastern Europe, Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, and many more were present at the fair.
Julie Stevener, a sophomore who spent a portion of her summer studying abroad in Spain and Greece, said she believes the experience one gets studying abroad is invaluable. "I just came back and told all of my friends that I think everyone should take the opportunity to go and study abroad, if they financially can," said Stevener. "The experience really helps you understand a different culture, and makes you appreciate where you come from," she continued.
At the fair, representatives from Longwood's financial aid office had a table, available for financial questions regarding the trip. The last nail in the coffin of your study abroad experience is not necessarily going to be a lack of funds. Many people make use of student loans, and financial aid to afford the experience. Scholarships can also be used to study abroad.
On the Longwood Office of International Affairs website, the benefits of studying abroad are examined. "Study abroad enhances employment opportunities in a world that is becoming more globalized, and sets your resume apart from your 'competitors,'" claims the site. Other websites devoted entirely to why students should study abroad, such as transitionsabroad.com cite the many personal benefits of the experience, such as increased self-confidence, an increase in maturity, and a lasting view on the world. It is also said to bring career, academic, and intercultural development to participants.
For some of the programs, people may spend a month abroad, a semester abroad, a summer abroad, or even an entire academic year. Junior Becca Parker hopes to study abroad in the near future. "I went to the fair because I want to study abroad in the fall of 2011, and all of the booths were really interesting and informative. I'm hoping to study in Australia and New Zealand.
On Longwood's study abroad site, Marcia Biddle summed up her thoughts on studying abroad, "Try to picture a world where people are not allowed to leave the country that they are born in. Imagine the consequences we would face if we ignored the world around us. Lack of knowledge and understanding of other cultures could lead to disaster. Every culture benefits from the values, beliefs, traditions, and experiences of other cultures. The world is a better place when there is understanding among different cultures. Therefore, if you study abroad you can be an essential part of keeping the world together."
The Office of International Affairs is located in Ruffner Hall 146, and appointments can be scheduled for more information regarding studying abroad.
