Study Abroad for Science and Engineering Students Session co-sponsored by WISE

About 60 students attended a study abroad informational session co-sponsored by WISE this November. Study abroad experience is valued by students as well as graduate schools and employers for giving students a global perspective; however, this is sometimes difficult for science and engineering students due to a very prescribed curriculum.

Nicole LeBlanc, Office of International Programs Assistant Director gave a study and research abroad overview and representatives from the Global Intercultural Experience for Undergraduates (GIEU) and International Programs in Engineering office also presented on their programs.

The student panel included Susan Palazzo, a junior studying biology; Michelle Schmid, a senior in chemical engineering; Gabriela Aguilar, a senior in cellular and molecular biology; Zachary Miller, a senior in biochemistry and anthropology/zoology; James Hart, a senior in the Program in the Environment; Olga Rouditchenko, a junior in electrical engineering; and Abena Koram, a senior in brain behavior and cognitive science.

Students shared their experiences, which ranged from taking soil samples in Pompeii's theater district to exploring sustainable solutions for the management of natural resources in New Zealand, and from working in cosmetics laboratories to doing health research in South Africa.

The panel was followed by student questions. Of greatest concern to the student audience was how students could find funding. Panelists reported that they had variously found funding through internships and via scholarships.

December 2008 eNews

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