The Programs Abroad Office will be hosting its Spring 2008 Study Abroad Fair on Tuesday, Jan. 29 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. in the University Center Ballroom.  Students will be able to browse the many programs abroad that UT offers during this time.

In 2007, 750 students from UT studied in various places around the world.  Thirty five percent of these students committed an entire academic year abroad.  The Programs Abroad Office sponsors many types of programs throughout over 100 countries.  Many programs do not require fluency in another language, and several courses of study are offered.  UT faculty sponsors some programs, while others are off-campus program providers such as ISEP and ISA.

Approximately 1,000 students attended the Study Abroad Fair last year.  The Programs Abroad Office is hoping for an even larger turnout on Tuesday.  The fair will host 18 off-campus program providers as well as information on the very popular short-term faculty-led programs.  Information about the Peace Corp will also be available.  Students can also register to win an 18-country, 15-day Eurail Pass valued at $1,100 donated by STA Travel.

Programs Abroad coordinator Noah Rost said that studying abroad is beneficial for students because it provides students with ample knowledge and experience that is highly demanded in today's business world.

"It's become a cliché, but we truly are living in a global village," Rost said.  "Employers are increasingly looking for individuals who can communicate across cultural and linguistic boundaries, and many graduate programs are looking for applicants who have a demonstrated global competence.  Studying abroad can provide students with these important skills, and will help them obtain the cross-cultural communication abilities and experience they will need to be competitive in their future careers."