The University of Memphis is stepping up efforts to encourage students to study abroad, and its latest event has already inspired many to take the leap.
On Sept. 11, the university hosted a study abroad fair in the Rose Theater, where students learned about opportunities to continue their education overseas.
“We want to make students aware of the opportunities of going abroad for their studies,” said Hayley Werth, an education abroad advisor.
The university has held these fairs for years, but this one stood out for its partnership with the U.S. Department of State to help students apply for passports on-site.
“We have partnered with the U.S. Department of State to help students get their passports,” said Aniya Blair, another education abroad advisor.
Blair said the cost of obtaining a passport at the fair was reduced from the standard $185 to $165. Students were also promised faster processing times, with passports expected to arrive within one to two weeks.
The initiative has already made an impact.
“I really wanted to go to Italy, and having this passport will really help,” said Sashenka Merriweather, a sophomore graphic design major.
University officials said another fair offering the same services will be held in the spring.
Darien Anderson can be contacted at djndrsn8@memphis.edu.
