Education Abroad fair to feature a world of opportunities
Last year, the most popular study abroad destinations for Virginia Tech students included Australia, China, the Dominican Republic, France, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Students are invited to learn about these and other non-traditional international opportunities on Sept. 18, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the annual Education Abroad Fair on the Drillfield.
“Each year, we send approximately 1,200 Hokies all over the world on international experiences ranging from a week to a year,” said Jennifer Quijano Sax, director of International Education. “This fair offers students the chance to gather information about the various program options all under one tent, and encourages them to start thinking about how to fit an international opportunity into their degree program — something that is increasingly becoming a prerequisite to securing that first job post-graduation.”
Booths will be staffed by Virginia Tech faculty as well as Education Abroad personnel, past study abroad participants and exchange students, representatives from partner universities, third-party providers, and staff from Virginia Tech’s Financial Aid Office. “Students are often surprised by how many programs are available to them and by the range of experiences possible,” Quijano Sax said. “For some students, they see the big white tent on the Drillfield, and it might be the first time they give serious consideration to the possibility of studying, interning, volunteering or even working abroad. The fair is our opportunity to start the conversation.”
Because Virginia Tech students have access to study abroad offerings in more than 50 countries and with more than 80 programs represented at the fair, students will have many options to consider.
An estimated 4,000 students and faculty attended the fair in 2012. Those who attend this year will have a chance to win door prizes.
Study abroad leaders and coordinators of faculty-led programs, partner universities, or third-party providers who would like to participate in the fair are asked to register by Aug. 30.
For more information, email the Virginia Tech Education Abroad office or call 540-231-5888.
Education Abroad at Virginia Tech challenges students to engage with the world by providing study abroad opportunities that are academically, culturally, and personally enriching. On average, 1,200 Virginia Tech students study abroad annually. The office supports more than 50 faculty-led programs, maintains academic exchange programs with 60 universities in 33 countries, and supports Virginia Tech study centers in Switzerland and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
Written by Rommelyn Conde, communications specialist, Education Abroad.
