It is a dream of most college students to someday travel the world. But why not start while still in college?
“If you study at Portland State for your entire education, [you] can lack a global perspective,” said Blythe Knott, an education abroad advisor who coordinates programs in Africa, the Middle East and Oceania.
It is a dream of most college students to someday travel the world. But why not start while still in college?
“If you study at Portland State for your entire education, [you] can lack a global perspective,” said Blythe Knott, an education abroad advisor who coordinates programs in Africa, the Middle East and Oceania.
Portland State’s Education Abroad program is hosting their annual fair Thursday, Oct. 4. The event will be held in the Smith Memorial Student Union Ballroom, room 335, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
At the fair, there will be informational desks representing the many possible programs that students can pick from. At each desk, students will find more detailed descriptions of specific programs with layouts of cost, curriculum and schedule.
There will also be a representative at each station who has either participated previously in the program or is very knowledgeable about the experience.
“All the players in one place,” as Knott put it.
Portland State students can choose from over 120 short-term, long-term or internship options in 45 countries.
The benefits of participating in an education abroad program are numerous, Knott explained. She believes that students who go to school abroad gain exposure to new ways of thinking, living and viewing life from a new culture.
“It is hard to become really proficient in a language without living in it for several months,” Knott said.
Knott also explained the many ways students can afford education abroad.
“There are a number of direct exchange programs,” Knott said, referring to the programs in which tuition abroad matches PSU’s tuition. There are many scholarship options and the student’s financial aid award package—loans, grants and scholarships—all also apply.
“We will work with you on your focus. Whether it is learning a language or cost, we can make it work for you,” Knott said. She explained how myriad program choices make finding a program that fits any student’s budget much easier.
Another obstacle that worries some students is the issue of transferrable credits. However, Knott said that all programs have transferrable credits and that the department works very hard to make the program fit as seamlessly into your degree plan as possible.
If you are unable to make it to the fair, stop by during drop-in advising in East Hall, room 101, located at 632 SW Hall St. You can also receive advice on how to get started by contacting
[email protected].
