Study abroad program to advance associate advisors

The UT study abroad program offers an opportunity for students to take classes and experience different cultures outside of the United States, but now, UT students can learn the ins and outs of the program first-hand from peer advisers.Students interested in studying abroad can get information and assistance from the Programs Abroad Office, which employs student advisers. These students have participated in the study abroad program and are willing to share their experiences with other students to help them with their decision to participate in the program.

Austin Kodra, a senior in creative writing, is a student adviser who recently came back from Turku, Finland, in the spring of 2010. His positive experience with the study abroad program encouraged him to assist the Programs Abroad Office.The Programs Abroad Office basically helps students navigate the application and decision-making processes, Kodra said.We have programs in 54 different countries on six continents. We offer general information sessions at 2 p.m. every day at the office for students who want more information.

Given a choice of 54 different countries to visit, students have a multitude of places to study. The peer-advising program is an essential part of the study abroad program, because the advisers are the closest link to the interested students.We have peer advisers because it is really valuable for students who want to study abroad to use us as a resource,Courtney Daly, junior in public relations, said.Her studies in Australia, in the spring of 2010, provided her with ample information about the program.We know first hand about choosing a program, how to apply, how to pay for it, and we can share our own personal experiences with the students,Daly said.

According to many advisers, the experiences one might gain from a trip outside of the country would offer new perspectives of different places around the globe.Meredith Hayes, a junior in environmental studies, went to Ghana with the study abroad program.If somebody wants to experience new things and grow as a person, then they should study abroad,Hayes said.You will form an international family with the people you meet abroad and make lifelong relationships. You will come home with new abilities that will benefit you in every situation, from the university to your future career.The study abroad program offers an insight into the different cultures of the world. Although the time spent in these other places is relatively brief, it can provide an experience different from those gained in the United States. The peer advisers offer information on such places using their own personal experiences.Studying abroad is about challenging yourself about letting go all of your preconceived notions about the world and about people,Kodra said. It's about widening your horizons and learning to accept and respect cultural differences.