The Study Abroad Office is holding a fair in Talley Ballroom Tuesday from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. to discuss the opportunities available for summer study abroad programs. 

Faculty members running the programs will be available to discuss studying abroad for a summer session or even an entire semester.

“When students are thinking about studying abroad, it is important to know if it fits within the academic plan and if it will match the progress they have already made toward a degree,” said Adam Culley, assistant director for the Center for Student Leadership, Ethics and Public Service. “Location is also something students should think about, and this fair can answer those questions.”

This fair will focus primarily on summer study abroad programs, according to Culley. Faculty members and members of the study abroad organization will be available to answer students’ questions.  There will also be information on financial aid and scholarships for study abroad programs.

“Even just going for one summer can be a very valuable experience for students.  Having a connection with a culture and community different than Raleigh is how we develop global citizens,” Culley said.  “The world is really a small place, so it’s good to develop different skills and intercultural experience can help make someone more well-rounded.”

According to Adam Steckler, the assistant director for Study Abroad, students can choose from about 50 summer programs.  Programs are available all over the world, including China, Peru and France.

“Some programs continue year after year.  Peru is actually one of our longest-running programs.  It focuses on learning Spanish and learning about the culture of Peru,” Steckler said.

There are study abroad programs available for all academic fields at the University, according to Steckler.  Most summer programs are between three and six weeks long and can result in between three and six credits.  

Each program usually includes 15 to 20 students.  Some programs, such as the Peru and Prague programs, have more spaces.  Faculty run all of the summer programs.  Cost varies by program, but there are financial aid options available as well as scholarships.

“This is one of those experiences that opens up and broadens students’ perspectives about the world.  A lot you can’t learn in the classroom,” Steckler said. “These programs are very academic, but they are also very cultural. Students can learn a lot about the world by participating in something like this.”

The fair is open to all students interested in a study abroad program.  Although the fair is focusing on summer programs, representatives will be there to answer questions about semester-long study abroad programs as well, according to Steckler.