Seminar informs students of chances for study abroad

Studying abroad is among the many opportunities offered to students in college. On Tuesday, the Florida A&M University chapter of the NAACP hosted a seminar on the opportunities students have to study abroad as part of its National International Education Week.

The seminar was held in the architecture atrium. “We are trying to inform students on the various opportunities that are available to them while they are here in college,” said FAMU chapter president, Andrew Collins, a 21-year-old business administration student from Atlanta. “This seminar shows students some of the resources they have here on campus.” In The Office of International Education Development, students are able to obtain information about studying abroad.

Camp Adventure is one of the programs that offers students an opportunity to help children whose parents are in the military. “The program is offered during the summer. This program allows students to receive school credit hours while they are at Camp Adventure,” said Smith.

During the seminar, several students spoke about their personal experiences while studying abroad.

“Growing up I was shy because I grew up sheltered. I didn’t interact with other people,” said Jerlysha Williams, a 21-year-old business administration student from Jacksonville. “This experience gave me the opportunity to interact with people. I had a wonderful time there and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

Students who traveled to Africa gave their take on their experience as well.

“I got the chance to go to Kenya last summer,” said Stacey Sessions, a fourth-year business administration student from Los Angeles. “This experience gave me the opportunity to network and meet new people. I learned a new language, and it exposed me to a new way of life.”

Other benefits that students can receive while studying abroad are experiencing the lifestyles of other countries.

“You will gain international exposure to political and the economic conditions of other countries. Through my personal experiences, I was able to travel to underdeveloped countries,” said Hugh Williams, recruiter for the U.S. Department of State. “You will also gain a better understanding of your own culture. You will be around like-minded people who are doing the same thing as you.”

Among the many rewards the NAACP mentioned during the seminar, were learning a new language, networking and exposure to a different culture.

“Come out of your comfort zone and embrace a different culture,” Williams said. “You will learn a different language and make lasting relationships.”

Some of the programs offered by the OIED are free while others are offered at a prorated rate.

Information on studying abroad can be obtained in Perry Paige, Room 305.