"Studying abroad gave me one of the best experiences of my life,” said Aiden Murphy. “The memories and the people I met during my time abroad gave me a whole new perspective on the world around me."
Murphy, an IU senior, studied abroad in the summer of 2023 in Ghana and shared that studying abroad provides a wealth of opportunities for students, helping them learn new skills and experience different cultures outside of the traditional college experience.
On Nov. 11, 2024, from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. in the Indiana Memorial Union Alumni Hall, the Office of Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion’s Overseas Studies and Scholarship Program, in collaboration with campus partners, will hold this year’s Study Abroad Fair. The free event brings various study abroad offices together to one central location so students can explore their options, ask questions, learn about financial aid and discover how study abroad programs may complement their college journey.
“Study abroad experiences expose students to a multitude of benefits, from learning about different cultures to interacting with diverse people. This, in turn, can enhance one’s views regarding the world, improve interpersonal skills and even open new career possibilities,” says Rashad Nelms, interim vice president for the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Those attending the Study Abroad Fair will be eligible to participate in a raffle to win luggage and a passport.
Partners and exhibitors for this year’s fair include:
- Arabic Flagship Program
- Bloomington Academic Advising Council
- Chinese Flagship Program
- College International
- Education Abroad
- Financial Wellness and Education
- Foreign Language and Area Studies
- Hamilton Lugar Experiential Learning and Professional Development
- Hutton International Experiences Program
- Kelley International Programs
- Language Workshop
- Luddy School, Office of Student Engagement and Success
- O’Neill International Office
- OVPDEI Overseas Studies and Scholarship Program
- Peace Corps
- Russian Flagship Program
- School of Education, Global Gateway for Teachers
- School of Education, Global and International Engagement
- School of Public Health, International Affairs
- Student Financial Assistance
- The Media School
Additional providers include:
- CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange)
- CYA (College Year in Athens)
- DIS (Study Abroad in Scandinavia)
- IES Abroad (Institute for the International Education of Students
“Studying abroad is something every student should have the opportunity to experience,” says Ochmaa Escue, director of OVPDEI’s Overseas Studies & Scholarship Program. “The learning that takes place is something that literally remains with students throughout their lives. It gives new meaning and context to the purpose of a college education, providing a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of a global and diverse world.”
The Study Abroad Fair takes place during International Education Week (#iew), which celebrates the benefits of international education and exchange worldwide. Indiana University hosts dozens of international-themed events surrounding this week, including IU World’s Fare and a photo contest each year. Local restaurants also help celebrate by providing discounts on certain dishes.
"The IU Education Abroad office loves working with students to help find study abroad options and, when possible, scholarships that align best with students' academic and career goals,” said
Amanda Roshan-Rawaan, senior associate director of IU Education Abroad. “I look forward to seeing and supporting students during the fair.”