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As the number of American students studying overseas continues to increase in record numbers, the value of study abroad is gaining national recognition. The U.S. Senate approved a resolution last November to designate 2006 as the "Year of Study Abroad."

As an effective way to help promote studying abroad, Overseas Programs and Partnerships (OPP) hosted a semi-annual Study Abroad Fair held in UWM's Union Concourse on Feb. 21. The OPP office in the Center for International Education promoted 27 summer programs taking place in 17 countries, as well as 29 fall semester programs.

"UWM students have numerous unique opportunities to earn academic credit, experience a different part of the world, speak a different language and learn about another culture this summer and fall," said Terence Miller, director of OPP.

Studying abroad is a world class experience. You can learn about language and culture in France, art in Santa Reparata, service learning in Oaxaca and explore beautiful countries such as Senegal, China, Ireland and many more.

Students had the chance to talk with overseas representatives, program advisors and converse with international students and past participating students.

"Living in Rome for the summer was in a sense living a dream," said Sergio Piceno, a previous study abroad participant. "I learned valuable skills about myself and other cultures, changing my life and ambitions for the better."

The Financial Aid Office advised students on different sources of aid available for international study opportunities such as loans, scholarships and different grants available to specific programs.

Make 2006 your year to Study Abroad! For more information about study abroad programs, consult their Web site at http://www.uwm.edu/Dept/CIE/OPP/

March 15 is the application deadline for 2006 summer and fall programs.

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