By Sarah Beck

The most ambitious students will strive to study abroad during their time at school; they will step outside of their familiar surroundings to travel to a place that they have most likely never been. Many people do not get to travel outside of their country in their entire lifetime. Working on a degree that you are passionate about is blissful in itself, but getting the chance to study that degree in a new country gives another level of happiness. Knowing the resources that are available to support this venture, one can quickly cross “Traveling to Another Country” off of their bucket list.

All dreams can come true for people who prepare and work hard on applying for various study abroad programs. Take Melissa Allanson for example; Allanson is a native from the Richmond, Virginia area, and she is currently a junior at SU studying Pre-Occupational Therapy. In the Spring Semester of 2016, Allanson will be able to study abroad in Canada.  “It’s a great new experience that I get to travel and see new places all while still being able to continue my studies.” This will be her first time traveling to another country and she is beyond thankful to be able to go somewhere she has never explored.

Study Abroad Advisor, Jean C. Hayes has been a huge supporter to Allanson’s endeavors. “Every month, Jean sends an email with study abroad information on finding out about study abroad so I talked to her about it. The emails from Jean are the best to use.” Allanson started taking actions her freshman year and now, as a junior, she is able to go. The more persistent work and planning put into this process, the further one will go.

“Most of the information about [study abroad] is on ISEP.org,” Allanson explained, “The Facebook page has information on it too from people traveling.” ISEP is a non-profit educational group that includes 328 colleges and universities from around the globe. Since 1979, over 50,000 students have been sent to study abroad in over 50 countries. They are dedicated to their work and want the very best for their applicants. One important factor that ISEP works out is the financial situation that their students have faced to come to the best possible outcome. They know that money can be a struggle when one endeavors into this mission.

“With us, students build real connections and gain a true understanding of what it is like to live in another culture. By utilizing existing academic resources at our member universities, we are able to provide students access to affordable, high-quality programs, that in return, help develop culturally sensitive skill sets needed for today’s global workforce.” –ISEP; Our Story

ISEP is a resource that will help throughout this journey; it should definitely be used when pursuing studies in another country. Studying abroad is not an easy thing to do, but for those that plan ahead and know what resources to use, success will come.

On September 4th 2015, students at Shenandoah University were able to attend the Study Abroad Fair where they discussed the many opportunities that students have to pursue traveling to another country. If you missed the meeting, contact Jean C. Hayes via her email, jhayes@su.edu. For more information, stop by the Center for International Programs in Cooley Hall or contact studyabroad@su.edu.