August 27, 2007

Purdue to hold Study Abroad Fair on Wednesday

The event will be a one-stop shop for students seeking information about studying abroad or finding internships in other countries.

"The purpose of the fair is to make the university community aware of the many international opportunities available to Purdue students," said Brian Harley, assistant dean of International Programs and director of the Office of Programs for Study Abroad. "A lot of people don't know that Purdue is one of the most internationally oriented universities in the United States. We have more than 200 different programs that allow students to take classes, do internships or perform research in other countries."

Harley said more than 1,000 students are expected to attend the event.

Students wishing to go abroad in the spring semester should begin exploring their options now, as applications to study abroad are due Sept. 15, Harley said.

At the fair, students can make appointments to plan their international experience with Study Abroad staff. Harley said that in past years, interest generated from the fair has been so strong that advisers have been booked for two to three weeks afterward.

Purdue students who have already studied abroad and exchange students from institutions around the world will work the booths. Students also will be able to meet with faculty from Purdue colleges and schools who design international opportunities for students in specific majors.

Students can speak with representatives of nonprofit groups that administer programs abroad, and staff from Purdue's Division of Financial Aid will answer questions about scholarships and loans.

A new presence at this year's fair is a representative from the U.S. Postal Service who will provide advice on getting a passport. The United States has begun requiring passports for people traveling to and from Canada and other nearby countries. The resulting increase in passport applications has more than doubled the amount of time required to obtain a passport, Harley said. Students who are considering going abroad are encouraged to apply for one as soon as possible.

Music at the fair will be provided by local folk group Traveler's Dream, and free popcorn will be available.

Purdue's Office of Programs for Study Abroad has more than 200 programs in 50 countries. More than 1,250 Purdue students study abroad each year.

Writer: Christy Jones, (765) 494-1089, christyjones@purdue.edu

Sources: Brian Harley, (765) 494-2383, bharley@purdue.edu

Christopher Klein, publications and marketing coordinator for the Programs for Study Abroad, (765) 494-9866, cbklein@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

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