The Study Abroad Fair advertised various opportunities Wednesday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. in the Brickyard. Fifty-five tables included information for students to inquire about study abroad possibilities available.
The majority of the programs in attendance were associated with N.C. State, however, some outside providers were available in case a student couldn’t find what he wanted within the NCSU choices, Kelly Kirkwood, assistant director of Study Abroad, said.
Daniel Shattuck, a junior in anthropology, said he noticed people walking by with three or four brochures in their hands.
“There are so many opportunities,” he said. “People need to talk to professors and program directors and previous attendees to find out which one is the best fit for them. They can’t base their decision solely on destination.”
Students came to the fair to acquire helpful information about the different countries and different programs, according to Natalie Whatley, a sophomore in business management.
“I’m hoping to study abroad, and this is encouraging me,” she said.
International students talked to students who are considering studying abroad in their countries and provided a different perspective for fair attendees.
“Come to Manchester, it’s A-plus,” Jemma Ross, a student in English, said while manning the table of her native country, England.
Students who recently spent time studying abroad were also available for advice at the fair. Amanda Smith, a senior in anthropology, spent six weeks in Peru.
“It taught me about people who live lives completely different than I do, and it showed me how completely fortunate I am,” she said.
Alexander Hall, the international residence hall, also had a table. The dorm was raising money for a spring trip to Italy, Sibel Yaman, a sophomore in business management and Alexander Ambassador, said. The table was also intended to present another option for students who are interested in acquiring a greater knowledge of other cultures.
“The fair is pretty quality because it allows us to inform the campus community about Alexander and all of the programs and community service we participate in,” Paul Lowe, a sophomore in political science and Alexander resident, said.
Tim Wallace, a professor of sociology and anthropology, commented on the importance of allowing students as many opportunities as possible to obtain information about study abroad options.
“I’m not sure that tons of students will come by to look at it but it’s better to have a presence than not,” Wallace said while manning the Guatemala table.
