On Thursday Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) international and development office hosted a Fall Study Abroad Fair to educate students on the opportunities available to them.
The event focused on study abroad programs, international internships, scholarships and fellowships as well.
Alexsandra Benedict, study abroad coordinator, wants students to see what options they have getting an international education. Benedict wants students to cultivate the new skills and be more attractive to potential employers with their experience.
“67% of students were asked to talk about their study abroad experience while in an interview. It’s to develop soft skills for students to be more attractive to employers. 100% of students returning, increased their gpa because of the skills learned while studying abroad,” said Benedict.
The fair had over 15 different tables that talked about the organization and opportunities presented to the students. Booths spoke one on one with each student ensuring them with an understanding of the educational choices available to them. Financial aid was also in attendance to advise students of grants being offered.
Victoria Moore, research program coordinator, helped with putting the event together and helped with the logistics of the different programs in attendance.
“I was able to study abroad with Famu and I want to plan events that I would have liked to attend when I was a student. I want to raise awareness to study abroad and show that the cost is not a worry,” said Victoria Moore,
Studying abroad can give students a chance to network with people from all over the world and can allow them to learn about different cultures.
There’s a study abroad fair every fall and spring every year to educate students of the opportunities available to them.
“Pursue the process and do not get discouraged. We are here to help assist with the application process,” said Benedict.