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In a recent resolution to raise awareness and to help increase the number of U.S. students studying abroad, the U.S. Senate stated: “Study abroad programs not only open doors to foreign language learning, but also empower students to better understand themselves and others through a comparison of cultural values and ways of life.” The resolution also encouraged higher education institutions to promote and expand study abroad opportunities.

As Vice President for Academic Affairs, it is my honor to introduce you to Augusta State University’s study abroad programs for Fall Semester of 2008, and Spring and Summer Semesters of 2009. This year, ASU faculty members will lead study abroad programs to Australia and New Zealand, Senegal, China, France, Salamanca, Peru, Ecuador, Scotland, South Africa, Costa Rica, and Sweden and we expect more than 250 ASU students and students from other colleges and universities to join them. We would like to save a place for you.

Studying abroad will provide you extremely rich educational experiences and life-long benefits. Many students who have studied abroad share the opinion of Troy Peden, a co-founder of GoAbroad.com, that: “Studying abroad may be that defining moment in your education that will change your life. Nothing will be quite the same after you have studied abroad. Your perspectives will be global, your attitudes will be international and you will have memories that you will carry forever. Your résumé will be more attractive, in some cases your language proficiency will be advanced, and you will have developed lifelong friendships.”

The largest misconception that prevents students from participating in study abroad is its perceived inaccessibility. Students who have studied abroad were pleasantly surprised when they learned how easy it was to put everything together. Financial aid, sweat equity programs, and scholarships are available, most major fields of study can partake, and study abroad is an experience available for every student.

A recent study on the benefits of studying abroad by Mary M. Dwyer, Ph.D. and Courtney K. Peters in Transitions Abroad Magazine shows that students who go abroad become more “respectful of other cultures and political and economic systems” and have often “served as a catalyst for increased maturity.” These are qualities employers and graduate schools will certainly value. Many big name companies have locations all over the world and will be looking for people who can travel to foreign countries without offending or being offended by the difference in cultures.

Our world is constantly changing, and globalization of educational programs through study abroad is a vital part of our future. To study abroad is truly an experience that I hope every one of our students will enjoy. Augusta State University offers you the best educational experiences that we possibly can, and we are committed to continuing this tradition through our unique, challenging and exciting study abroad programs. We would be pleased to have you join us on a trip abroad this year. Give us a call, check our website, or stop by and see us as soon as you can.

Sincerely,