“Every morning, I wake up to electric purple and red sunrises which flash the mountains blue and gold all around us, and stubby trees with thick, rounded leaves twice as large as my head… Here, the people are so friendly that not knowing Chinese is no big deal at all. Sure, you’ll occasionally think you’re ordering chicken and get handed a green milkshake, but mm, it’s delicious.” -Jessica Fawley, studying in Taiwan.

Thursday, Sept. 15, is the deadline for students to apply for Spring 2012 study abroad opportunities, said Aimee Jones, coordinator of UALR’s Programs Abroad.

“It is not too early to start thinking about studying abroad for next semester,” she said.

The Office of International Services provides Study Abroad Information Sessions every Tuesday at 10 a.m. and every Wednesday at 3:30 p.m. in Room 101 of the Education Building.

Study abroad offers students a unique and valuable experience – an opportunity not only to study, but also to immerse oneself in another country and culture, expanding the student’s view of the world.

“While working to fulfill major and minor coursework requirements, you also have an unparalleled opportunity to acquire firsthand knowledge of another culture, develop or improve fluency in another language, and gain a global perspective,” Jones said.

“Your time abroad will be full of vivid and amazing experiences that you will remember for the rest of your life, no matter where you choose to go.”

UALR offers four types of programs: Semester/Year, Faculty Led, UALR Summer, and Post-Graduation Opportunities.

UALR Programs Abroad also encourages students to get involved on campus by becoming an exchange mentor for international students coming to UALR for their study abroad experience. Other opportunities include volunteering at the annual UALR International Celebration Week, or joining the International Club.

For more information, visit ualr.edu/programsabroad.