Carrie Feistner

Many students are interested in experiencing education in a different country. Last year, 100 students from SDSU studied aboard and it is predicted this year will be no different.

Studying aboard has two advantages, said Dr. Karl J. Schmidt, director of international programs. Students can learn about other cultures and ways of life and have a practical work experience that other job candidates may not possess.

“My philosophy is some study abroad is better than no study abroad,” Schmidt said. “There’s some really great opportunities for students.”

The earliest study abroad programs were to Chungnam National University in South Korea in 1989 and the Manchester Metropolitan University program that started in 1991. New connections and new programs have been developed.

The newest study abroad program will go to the University of Hyderabad in India. There are also new agreements with two universities in Sweden.

There are a variety of options for International Study Abroad programs:

Short-term programs, offered through departments

*Can range from one week to one month

*Are usually taught over breaks from school

*Include trips to Costa Rica and France with the Modern Language Department in summer 2004.

Short-term study experiences sponsored by the Office of International Programs

*Programs to places like South Korea, Australia, Argentina, and China.

Semester or academic year-long programs, sponsored by the Office of International Programs

*Include rips to places like England, Sweden, Egypt, India, Greece

*Include international internships in London, Dublin or Sydney

“There’s really something for everyone: all time frames and all financial needs,” Schmidt said.