Global Forum Encourages Study Abroad

What is it like to study abroad for a semester?  Can I go overseas and still graduate on time?  What scholarship opportunities are available? How can study abroad help me reach my career goals?

These are just a few of the questions answered during the March 29 Global Forum, Transform Your Life Through Study Abroad.  A panel including Rome Program Director Prof. Mario Mignone, Senior Assistant Dean for International Academic Programs Lindsi Walker, study abroad returnees Lydia Senatus and Lorenzo Fedi, and Jessica Jin from the President’s Council of Student Advisors discussed the study abroad experience and answered questions from students interested in studying overseas.

Throughout the forum, panelists highlighted the benefits students receive from studying abroad, and shared some of the most memorable parts of their own journeys.

The biggest benefit was, of course, increased desirability to future employers.  “When you apply for graduate school or when you apply for a job, it stands out,” said Prof. Mignone.  Study abroad “forces you to reflect, and process, and to be analytical.  Companies and graduate schools appreciate that.”

Panelists agreed, saying that their experiences not only taught them how to be more independent and adaptable, and but also boosted their resume.  Walker attributed her overseas studies to landing her post-graduation jobs, and Senatus secured an internship at the US Mission to the United Nations.

But the most rewarding part, according to student panelists, was meeting and befriending people from all over the world.  “Think of all the people you can meet; think of all the connections that you can make because you’re from a different background,” said Fedi.  “You connect with people in that same sense. You all share that same [study abroad] experience even if you speak different languages.”

Advisors in International Academic Programs can help students decide on the program that best suits their interest and academic needs.  Most students can earn general education and major/minor credits abroad without delaying graduation, and scholarships are available to help offset the extra costs.