2 percent of college students study abroad before graduation

Nationally, 2 percent of college students study abroad before graduation.At Miami University, 44 percent of students take advantage of a study abroad opportunity, the university expects to confirm in November.And the numbers are still growing.The university’s goal is 50 percent, said David Keitges, director of international education. We certainly intend to make our goal.The university has made it a priority, said Keitges. We are trying to educate students who will be able to be in a global market place for 50 years.

With higher unemployment throughout the country, competition has grown for jobs that were once typically held by new college graduates, according to David Marshall, a professor in the department of finance.Normally those higher experienced people would command higher salaries, Marshall said. In this environment they are willing to take a cut just to have a job.
Study abroad experience is one way graduates are trying to separate themselves from more experienced candidates.We believe for this generation the more global aware and sensitive, the better opportunities a graduate would have because the market is beyond the U.S., said Kim Suellau, coordinator of international programming for the Farmer School of Business.

In the Farmer School of Business, 64 percent of the 2008-09 graduating class had some study abroad experience. In part, this is due to university efforts.We have found ways to have requirements met while abroad, Suellau said.The other thing is the dean has done such a good job finding scholarship support.Many students see it as an attractive option during their college days and they are willing to devote their time,Keitges said.It is almost right below the surface all the time; how can this help me get another job? Keitges said.