Study abroad programs flock to UNC

On Wednesday, staff of the Center for International Education hosted
the Study Abroad and Passport Fair for students interested in taking
classes in another country. Various study abroad agencies set up
booths with informational pamphlets and flyers in the University
Center corridor.

Agencies present at the event included International Student Exchange
Program, Study and Learn in Germany, Semester at SEA, Peace Corps, The
Abroad Network and Council on International Education Exchange.

“UNC offers more than 450 study abroad programs in more than 50
countries, with exchange partnerships with foreign institutions,” said
Joe Tort, the coordinator of CIE’s Study Abroad Program. “The study
abroad experience provides students with skills they may not be able
to develop on campus. Two of the most important skills gained are
problem solving and communication skills.”

Corbin Greene, a senior history major, said he decided to participate
in the Semester at SEA program in 2009 to benefit his academic
horizons.

“I went to Spain, Croatia, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Bulgaria, Egypt and
Morocco, and managed to gain experience that you wouldn't get here at
UNC,” Greene said. “I applied late, but CIE helped me make the
necessary preparations, which included passports and visas.”

Charlie Sipes, a senior environmental earth science major, went to
Spain and Ireland during the 2007-‘08 school year.

“It opens doors around the world,” Sipes said. “I recommend students
that are interested to start planning and applying at least a semester
prior to departing, even though it depends on the program.”

During the 2009 Spring semester, Alex Baugh, a senior elementary
education major, said she spent a semester in Townsville, Australia.

“I took classes for my major, which included a science class, a
physical education health class for elementary education, aboriginal
studies and coral reef geomorphology,” Baugh said.

Baugh also said a semester abroad was one of the best experiences she
ever had. She said she recommends students go abroad and not let the
price be a weight on his or her decision.