For over 30 years, Fort
Lewis College has sent students around the world through various study abroad
programs. Though a large number of students show interest in participating in
the programs, many wonder what the next step is when considering studying abroad.
Students often find
themselves questioning what is required to participate in the program and
believe that they cannot afford it.
Tina Zuniga, a FLC
junior majoring in sociology with a focus in ethnic studies was able to study
abroad last semester. Through the FLC Foundation, she found student aid
opportunities and scholarships, which helped her study in Costa Rica.
“I’m glad I took the
initiative to utilize what my school offers,” she said.
Initially, FLC students
studied abroad only through faculty-led programs.
Since then the program
“has become more individualized where students could customize their own
experiences,” said, the Director of International Programs, Jennifer Gay.
Gay has directed the
program for four years and has expressed concern regarding students’ belief
that they cannot go abroad for any number of reasons. She works with students
to establish individual plans for their time abroad, a strategy she calls “myth
busting”.
Gay said it is important
that students have an open mind when planning their time abroad.
“It’s never something a
FLC student regrets doing,” she said.
In addition to sending
students to other countries, FLC welcomes a diverse multitude of study abroad students.
One of these students, Simon Law, a sophomore studying social science from
Waseda University in Tokyo.
Law enjoys receiving
one-on-one attention from FLC professors and perks like faculty office hours
not offered at his university, he said.
Students considering the
study abroad program at FLC can visit the International Programs Office located
on campus in Jones Hall, Room 106. There, students can learn about
prerequisites for studying abroad such as the application process, required
courses, and programs offered. More information can be found on the International
Programs Office of Study Abroad webpage on the FLC website.