Study Abroad Fair marks record attendance, programs increase at UO

UO Study Abroad Fair a success, participation increases from International Ducks on Vimeo.

More than 500 students and 80 volunteers participated in the 2012 Fall Study Abroad Fair. The event was held in the Erb Memorial Union’s concourse and provided UO students information on the 170 study and internship programs in 90 countries worldwide.

International students and previous program participants were present to answer questions and discuss their experiences with those interested in travelling abroad.

One such student was Claire Biglin, who participated in the CIEE program in Ferrara, Italy in Spring 2012.

“I decided to volunteer because my time abroad meant so much to me,” says Biglin. “I wanted to share with younger students the potential to make friends, see new places, and learn about yourself.”

More UO students are appreciating the value of studying abroad as an integral part of their education.  Participation in UO-sponsored study abroad programs went up 125 students from 2011-2012, a 14.5% increase.  

Director of Study Abroad Programs Cari Vanderkar Moore attributes the increase to the breadth of opportunities, seamless credit transfer, economical access, and positive experiences students are reporting.

“Transformation…that is the overarching sentiment we hear from students about their experiences studying and interning abroad,” says Moore. “The University of Oregon offers outstanding academic programs and equally compelling ways to augment your degree—and your life—through studying and interning abroad. ”

In the months to come, UO Study Abroad Programs will add 16 new programs around the world, including marine biology research in Panama, international journalism in Vienna, survey of choral music in England, multimedia storytelling in Uruguay, innovative product design in Scandinavia, and a partnership with Clark Honors College in Oxford, UK.

Visit Study Abroad to look into a program that fits your needs, or visit the office at 333 Oregon Hall to schedule an appointment with an adviser.



By Nicole Dionisopoulos
International Multimedia Reporter