"Who wouldn't want to spend a year in Europe?" asked University of Memphis senior Jill Dunham.
Dunham, 24, who will graduate in December with a major in math and a minor in French, is only one of the hundreds of students who has taken advantage of the educational opportunities offered by The U of M's student exchange program.
In 1998-99, Dunham spent her academic year studying at the Hautes Etudes Industrielle, in Lille, France.
According to Rebeccah Laumann, the program's International Exchange Advisor, many students are missing out on an exciting opportunity by not considering studying abroad.
The University offers a variety of semester and year-long programs through the International Student Exchange Program from programs in France or Finland to programs in Spain or Switzerland.
Some students may be deterred by the estimated cost of studying abroad, but both Laumann and Dunham said financial aid is easily accessible to all interested students.
The International Studies Program, located on the fourth floor of the University Center, even advises students on how to apply for loans, grants and scholarships.
"It's very affordable," says Laumann "You really have to think in terms of what you're getting (out of the experience)."
"In college, it's probably the easiest (to afford) because there are so many great loans and scholarships available," Dunham said.
Program costs can range from $5,000 for a semester to $10,000 for a year (not including airfare).
However, costs will vary according to destination, personal needs and qualification for scholarships.
Dunham funded her trip to Lille with a $1,000 scholarship, $5,000 in student loans and personal savings.
Although these figures may seem daunting to some students, Dunham assures students the value of the experience more than exceeds the costs.
"I stayed in an international dorm, so I met people from all over the world -- Japan, Portugal, Africa, Spain," Dunham said. "You make international contacts that you'll hold on to for years."
Laumann also emphasized the importance of gaining exposure to international cultures.
"The world is getting more globalized every day, so it's important to learn about other cultures," she said.
Laumann said the experience itself is rewarding, whether by helping students master foreign languages or by furthering their careers, because employers are usually impressed by international experience.
"Once you take the initiative and decide you really want to go, you'll find a way (to fund the trip)," said Dunham. "I wouldn't trade that trip for the world."
For more information on available programs and financial aid, or visit the website at www.memphis.edu/studyabroad.html.
