Students at The University of Memphis have opportunities to travel and study in more than thirty countries, according to Rebecca Laumann, the study abroad director at The U of M. With locations ranging from Argentina to Morocco, there is an international niche for every major.
"Last summer we had over one hundred and thirty students study abroad," Laumann said. "Students were in Costa Rica, Germany, Malaysia -- all over the world." Most students return with a new outlook on life and a different attitude toward education, according to Laumann.
"I think students value their educations more because they've had the opportunity to compare the education they are receiving with that of others," Laumann said. "They tend to come back focused, and some even start up their own international organizations."
Drew Sanford, a junior French major at The University of Memphis said his entire perception of himself, his country and his values changed after spending a semester in France.
"I began to question things that I would have never questioned if I stayed in Memphis," he said. "I learned so much and was able to appreciate my country but also criticize it. I think everyone should experience life in a different place."
It is possible for anyone to experience a different country, according to Laumann. The University of Memphis offers financial aide and a number of scholarships to students interested in studying abroad. External sources such as the federal government and private companies offer scholarships ranging between $4,000 and $12,000, according to Laumann.
Students may also work while living abroad. Sanford paid for his living expenses in France by teaching English in a French elementary school.
"It was a fun and fulfilling job, it paid well and I got to immerse myself in the French culture," he said. "It helped me a lot financially."
Students do not have to major in a foreign language to go abroad. There are programs available for most majors, according to Laumann.
"It is unfortunate that we don't have more non-language majors applying," he said. "We have so many programs that are beneficial to students' academic career such as journalism, architecture and science."
Laumann recommends the study abroad experience to anyone.
"I've been the director here for years," she said. "I have yet to have someone come back and tell me they didn't like it."
