Study Abroad Fair showcases international opportunities

The annual Study Abroad Fair at Lamar University transformed the Setzer Student Center into a gateway to the world, drawing students eager to explore international opportunities. Sponsored by the Office of International Education & Services, the fair showcased programs spanning continents and cultures, inviting students from all majors to envision spending a semester or summer immersed in another part of the world.

Rebecca Boone, chair of the Department of History and University Studies, highlighted the transformative power of studying abroad. "International studies can be truly inspiring," she said. "It opens you up to a different way of life and a new way of thinking. When you immerse yourself in another culture, you gain perspectives that change you in ways you never expected. It's not just about academics-it's about discovering yourself and the world."

The fair featured tables from various partner programs and study destinations, with representatives and alumni sharing stories of adventures in cities like Paris, the United Kingdom, Croatia, and the Netherlands. Each program offered something unique, from language immersion experiences to hands-on internships and service-learning projects, providing a wide range of opportunities for every interest.

Dr. Kirstie Boyett, who leads the Criminal Justice Studies: International Perspectives on Justice program, emphasized the significance of studying abroad in understanding global justice systems.

"Experiencing different cultures and countries exposes students to various ideas and practices in any field," she explained. "In our program, we specifically focus on victimology and explore how other countries address the challenges faced in this area. This firsthand exposure helps students appreciate the global scope of criminal justice and empowers them to apply that knowledge to improve their own communities."

Also present were representatives from financial institutions like Neches Federal Credit Union, alongside Dr. Mustapha Jourdini, executive director of the Office of International Education & Services, who addressed a common concern regarding financial aid options for study abroad.

"There are a lot of misconceptions about financial aid for study abroad," he explained to a group of students. "Many assume it's out of reach, especially if they rely on financial aid. But in fact, a significant number of Pell Grant recipients qualify for additional scholarships and aid specifically for study abroad."

Jourdini emphasized that resources like the Gilman Award and program-specific grants can make these opportunities accessible. "Our office works closely with students to identify these funding opportunities, which can substantially reduce costs."

Students left the fair with more information and a renewed sense of possibility, feeling reassured that their study abroad dreams were within reach. To learn more about study abroad programs at LU, visit https://www.lamar.edu/international-education/study-abroad/students/short-term-programs.html.