Students and faculty attended the annual Education Study Abroad Fair on Wednesday in the Union, which showcased opportunities throughout the world.
More than 30 different exhibitors from around the world had tables set up at the fair, offering internship abroad opportunities, service learning abroad and different classes students can take in order to get credit for studying abroad.
Coordinator for Education Abroad Nora Solomon was in charge of the fair and said it gave students a chance to see what kind of study abroad programs there are for students and how to become involved.
“It’s a really great way to get a lot of information in one visit,” Solomon said. “We try to offer students a wide variety of study abroad programs in many locations that offer classes that can be used towards a degree here at the University.”
Although many exhibitors were trying to get students involved, there was a deeper meaning behind the motivation.
Jenifer Chambers, director of abroad and international partnerships, said a main reason for the fair to be hosted is to increase the amount of students to study abroad and if they take the opportunity, it could benefit them once they have a career set.
“There’s things you can gain from this type of experience that will help people get into graduate school,” Chambers said. “Studying abroad has a lot of interesting features, such as students who come back feel they are more independent and have enhanced communication skills.”
Louis Berends, University relations manager for School for International Training Abroad, had a table set up at the fair and said after the University recently signed up with SIT, it has offered more students a chance with study abroad opportunities.
“This is a nice push and how we can really compliment the Bowling Green portfolio options and be a nice addition to have a nice opportunity in Mongolia or South Africa,” Berends said. “This way your students will have a lot more opportunities in a lot more places.”
Senior Jacob Lindsay attended the study abroad fair because he wants to spend a summer in another country before he graduates. He said the opportunity would be helpful.
“Since this is my last year, I want to spend my summer in another country and then graduate when I get back,” Lindsay said. “I want to study abroad but it would be pretty cool. I would love to go to Ireland.”
