Study Abroad Fair on the MavAve
by EMMA GABBERT, CSU Public Relations Assistant
If studying in another country seems like a big leap for your college education, advisors will help you take that important first step.
The Center for Education Abroad and Away at Minnesota State University, Mankato is hosting the Spring 2020 Study Abroad Fair on Tuesday, Feb. 4, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the first floor of the Centennial Student Union.
Anna Ochs, Education Abroad and Away advisor, said the fair helps students debating the decision to study abroad.
‘If you’re hesitant about studying abroad, coming to the fair is the first step. Students can meet with us, (center for abroad and away advisors), and alumni to learn about the wide variety of opportunities available.‘
Anna Ochs, Education Abroad and Away Advisor
Students will have the chance to meet with partner providers, faculty members and alumni in a comfortable setting.
Questions are encouraged. Those with a specific plan or those who are simply curious are welcome.
Rachel Witt, M.S., another Education Abroad and Away advisor, said the fair introduces students to the benefits of the study abroad center.
‘It’s a great opportunity for students to learn about the different programs offered by the Center for Study Abroad and Away.’
Rachel Witt, M.S., Education Abroad and Away Advisor
Ochs added that students with financial concerns can speak with Education Abroad and Away advisors about scholarship opportunities and the use of financial aid.
‘If there’s a will, there’s a way. There are a lot of scholarship opportunities from program providers and, if needed, students can use financial aid when they go abroad.’
Anna Ochs, Education Abroad and Away Advisor
Personal Perspective
If you are concerned about studying abroad, you should know that you’re not alone. From mid-May to early June, I will be attending a Faculty-led two-week study abroad program in England.
I personally chose this two-week option rather than a semester for three reasons. First of all, I, along with many others, can’t afford to stay outside the United States for a whole semester.
Second, the program I chose is within my major. I decided that if I was going to study abroad, I would like to have an emphasis in my course of study, rather than studying abroad in an academic field I’m not interested in.
Finally, I didn’t want to be gone for an entire semester. Leaving your familiar surroundings for the first time can be intimidating, but there’s no reward without risk. – EMMA GABBERT
The Center for Abroad and Away offers programs from one to two weeks, to an entire year. In addition, there are programs offered on every continent, from Costa Rica to Kenya, (two new programs introduced this year.)
According to The Center for Abroad and Away website, the following programs are offered at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
- Short term programs with Minnesota State Mankato Faculty-Led programs (http://www.mnsu.edu/studyabroad/facultyled/facultyhome.html)
- Summer and Semester programs with Minnesota State Mankato exchange programs (http://www.mnsu.edu/studyabroad/student/exchange/)
- Summer and Semester programs with Program Providers (http://www.mnsu.edu/studyabroad/externalprograms.html)
- Semester or academic year away with the National Student Exchange (http://www.mnsu.edu/studyabroad/nationalstudentexchange/)
With an abundance of resources, students can find their perfect fit. More information about the Center for Abroad and Away can be found on their website, linked below:
