USI students explore the world, discover themselves
Last year 110 students earned USI credit in 15 countries around the world, ranging from Thailand to New Zealand to the United Kingdom. This number is a record for USI, reflecting a 40 percent increase over the previous year, up almost 100 percent from three years ago. USI is committed to making study abroad as affordable and accessible as possible, and with hundreds of study abroad options in over 60 countries, we expect the numbers to continue to increase.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is to witness the tremendous growth that students experience – from the time they depart the US for their foreign destination, understandably nervous but very excited, to the time they return home, “citizens of the world” brimming with enthusiasm for all that they have experienced. As diverse as the individual experiences are, a common thread unites them: studying abroad is a life-changing experience. Indeed, this theme resounds in the responses from recent returnees to the question regarding how studying abroad has impacted their lives. Here’s a sample of what the students had to say:
“This was the single most important and life-changing venture I have ever done. My perception of life has been augmented and I look at things in a different, more lucid way. The people, the travels, the feelings, the learning, the sights, the sounds have taught me more than I could have ever imagined and I encourage everyone I come in contact with to consider studying abroad.” – Kris Pickett, Netherlands, ISEP, Spring 2008.
“My study abroad experience was literally life changing…I am a much more independent person. On top of that, I am a much more knowledgeable person. I understand the workings of the world a little better now. I am more open to trying new things and am more willing to look at things from other’s perspectives.” – Lindsey Vandoornik, Harlaxton, England, Spring 2008.
“The whole experience for me was incredible and life changing….I feel like I was rather mature before I left… but the experience of being thrown into a new environment… really pushed me into maturing way beyond where I was or would have been otherwise. It was also enlightening to be around so many people..who all had different views…Learning what others believe and why they do so…also helps your own morals and opinion to strengthen. Finally, another huge aspect is that, mind the cliché, I was able to find myself.” – Heather Keefer, CEA Cork, Ireland, Fall 2007.
What we hear from our students on an anecdotal basis has been borne out by a recent study on the long-term impact of study abroad. Conducted by the Institute for the International Education of Students (IES) the study found that “regardless of where students studied and for how long …studying abroad is usually a defining moment in a young person’s life and continues to impact the participant’s life for years after the experience.”
It is truly a privilege to play a small role in such a transforming experience. The increase in study abroad participation reflects a joint commitment on the part of many people at the University. For example, colleagues in the College of Science and Engineering have been working with our office to identify specific programs which offer a good fit for their majors. Through focused exchanges of this kind, increased access to scholarships and other financial aid, and the enthusiastic support of faculty and staff, I am confident that we will continue to see unprecedented growth in participation. Please contact International Programs and Services (ext. 1248) if you would like to arrange for a presentation to a class or student organization, or to find out more information about study abroad opportunities available through USI.
POST CONTRIBUTED BY: HEIDI GREGORI-GAHAN, director of International Programs and Services.