Poets flock to Campus Center with dreams of going abroad

dynamic, issue 16, Kristin Williams, Miranda Eastman, Study Abroad Fair, Campus Life - By Ryan Inouye on Thursday, February 2, 2012 - 02:05

On Wednesday, Feb. 1, Whittier College’s Courtyard was host to a study abroad fair, focusing on the many opportunities for Poets to study abroad.

This study abroad fair, set up by Director of International Programs Katie Hunter, focused on various alumni that have studied abroad. There were also many representatives from Whittier College associated programs present, all willing to share and spread information on their respective countries. Some of the countries present included Denmark, England, Mexico, Brazil and even some parts of Africa.

Students gathered around the various booths, asking questions about the various opportunities available to them, such as what programs in what countries offered different classes applicable to their major. It is important to go through a Whittier College supported program so that as to make sure the classes count towards the Liberal Education Requirements.

Many Poets are interested in studying abroad, but feel like they don’t know enough about it. “That’s why these fairs are important,” junior Alan Parker said. “They can really open your eyes to a lot of different chances to go to some amazing places.”

Following the fair was a presentation on the study abroad programs in Denmark by the Director of Institutional Relations, Julie Scott, and recent Danish Institute for Study Abroad (DIS) alumni. “This was a great opportunity for me to see about studying in Denmark sometime in the next couple of years,” first-year Maria Espinoza said. “The only thing that was lacking was information about playing sports in another country.”

For students interested in studying abroad, Hunter is always available to take appointments. There are study abroad fairs fairly often, and there are many faculty members who can advise students on where to go and what to do. Applications for the fall semester are due Feb. 22, so the sooner students meet with Hunter, the better.