People often dream about exploring different countries across the globe while learning about culture and language. The University of Memphis Study Abroad Office has given students the opportunity to have that experience.
Students researched more than 50 study abroad programs for summer and fall of 2019 at the Study Abroad Fair at the Michael D. Rose Theatre on Monday.
Study abroad advisor Elizabeth Langston said students who study abroad sometime during college will stand out to potential employers.
“Everybody is graduating with a bachelor’s now,” Langston said. “Studying abroad will set you apart on your resume, your cover letter and your interviews.”
Langston said the networking opportunities people gain from studying abroad can make a huge difference in students’ careers.
“It’s a wonderful networking opportunity to make connections all over the world,” Langston said. “You might be in class with students from other countries. You never know when that facility abroad is going to serve as a reference or that student next to you is going to be the next Fortune 500 company owner and wants to hire you.”
The Study Abroad Office has programs for students who are looking for more economical options.
“If prices are the student’s priority, we look at more budget-friendly options,” Langston said. “We have full-semester-long programs that are going to look expensive, but you are paying for a full semester. You can use your full semester loan, your full semester scholarships, just like you do here.”
Cody Huff, a senior Japanese major, said taking a trip to study abroad challenged him and introduced him to early adult life.
“I haven’t been left alone until I went to study abroad,” Huff said. “It’s a lot more difficult when you’re in the country, other than America ... In Japan, it is required that everyone [recycles], and you have to split up your trash in a lot of different categories.”
Tyrese Davis, a sophomore French and pre-dental major, said his experience in the Czech Republic was very welcoming.
“Studying abroad gives you the opportunity on a job application to enhance the conversation of the interview,” Davis said. “It gives you the opportunity to show your leadership and your courage to actually go into another country and involve yourself with the other groups of people.”
Sophie Vogel, an international student from the United Kingdom studying architecture, said she has enjoyed her time on campus and believes the experience will benefit her in the future.
“The classes are so helpful,” Vogel said. “They are really different from the ones I have at home. It gives you more skills, and you can study in different countries, and you can work in different countries.”
Students can meet with an advisor at the Study Abroad Office during walk-in hours Wednesday from 1:30 to 3:45 p.m. and Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Psychology Building in room 135. Appointments can also be made for Monday through Friday.
Breanna Taylor, a sophomore and undecided major, greets Melvyn Harding with a friendly handshake. Harding is the Director of Student Success Program.
Scott Lopez, a 19-year-old freshman and fashion design major, seeks information about abroad opportunities in China with Meiqing Duan.
