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University of Maine students, staff and visitors have probably seen the fluorescent pink, green and orange fliers that blanket campus bulletin boards. Study Abroad informational meetings will continue to be held Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:30 to 4:30 through Feb. 10, in the Coe Room of the Memorial Union.
Catherine D’Auteuil, study abroad advisor, will hand out and walk through general information, discuss direct exchange and other program options, cost, financial aid and answer questions.
D’Auteuil began last Tuesday’s meeting by encouraging students to take advantage of the program.
“You must all do it,” she said. “Here, a walk across campus is routine. Abroad, a walk across campus is an adventure.”
D’Auteuil has been advising UMaine students in the process of studying abroad for several years. As an international student at UMaine and a world traveler, D’Auteuil said she knows how important it is to have a global perspective.
“[It's the] best thing a student can do to enhance the student experience. A global focus is extremely valuable in any field,” she said. “An international experience favored by employers.”
At the information meeting, D’Auteuil explained how economical a direct exchange is. Essentially, you swap places with a student from a university abroad. Tuition is paid to UMaine, at the university’s cost. Direct exchanges are offered in Australia, Austria, Bulgaria, Canada, England, France, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Spain, Turkey and Wales. For those who can’t find a program out of 17 direct exchange options, the Office of International Programs assists students in enrolling in other study abroad programs, that tend to be more expensive. A list of recommended credible programs is provided at the information meetings and at the Office of International Programs.
Students who can’t attend an information meeting can visit the Office of International Programs, 100 Winslow Hall. There, interested students can find information on direct exchange programs, financial aid and scholarship opportunities. The resource room provides numerous brochures and pamphlets on other study abroad programs, and the room is staffed with peer advisors. You can also visit the study abroad Web site, conveniently linked to the UMaine home page.
In the process of selecting a program, D’Auteuil advises considering cost direct exchange vs. study abroad program, location and academic courses. Also consider language prerequisites.
Students who would like to discuss thier options should call Susan Landry of the Office of International Programs at 581- 2905 to schedule an advising session with a study abroad advisor.
A few things to consider early in the process: apply for a passport and visas. This process can take several months, and you’re not leaving or entering the country, without it. Also be aware of deadlines. UMaine has deadlines of April 1 for fall semester and full year programs, and Oct. 15 for spring programs. Individual programs may have earlier deadlines.
According to D’Auteuil, Australia is a popular destination because it’s exotic, adventurous, and they speak English. While Australia is the most popular country, Western Europe is the most popular continent.
D’Auteuil advises about 20 students per week, and said that a common misconception is that you have to study abroad during your junior year. Sophomore, junior and the first semester of your senior year are all an option to study abroad, depending on a student’s individual needs.
While the number of international students who come to UMaine has decreased, D’Auteuil said that Sept. 11 made students realize how important a global understanding is and actually boosted interest.
“We’re sending more and more students away,” she said.
Eric Kempen, a senior English major and public management, just returned from a direct exchange in England, where he studied political science. Kempen said his experience was worth while and dispelled any doubts he had.
“[It was] the best time of my life. Travel, beer and beautiful women,” Kempen said. “I was a bit apprehensive about traveling at first, but know that I’m back, it really doesn’t seem like a big deal, so dive in despite the fear.”
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