Study Abroad Fair presents new programs for travel, academics – The Baylor Lariat

By Chang Liu | Focus/Design Editor

At the Study Abroad Fair on Tuesday in the Bill Daniel Student Center, students shared a Dr Pepper Hour while learning about various opportunities for travel to mix with academics.

The event was hosted by the Center for Global Engagement, a program that connects Baylor students with the world. Holly Joyner, associate director of Global Engagement and Marketing, said the Study Abroad Fair has been going on for 20 years and is always held during Dr Pepper Hour.

“[The] Study Abroad Fair is specifically for all students, but mostly domestic students who want to go on student abroad experience,” Joyner said. “International students are kind of already having their study abroad, but they’re also welcome to go, as long as their visa status is good.”

All undergraduate students with any major can attend study abroad programs. Having a good GPA is one of the application requirements and the minimum required GPA depends on the program that the students is interested in.

“Our last requirement is that, with the exception of one program that we have in the fall, all other students have to at least be two semesters of residence [at Baylor],” Joyner said. “So, usually, the summer of your freshman year going into your sophomore year would be the first time for the students [to study abroad.]”

Joyner said graduate students can join too, but programs are going work easier for undergraduate students.

Jason Whitlark, professor of New Testament in the Baylor Interdisciplinary Core, said the program in Greece studies the ancient cultures for the western philosophical tradition for early Christianity in the first part of the summer session.

“Certain programs will offer classes that fit certain majors,” Whitlark said. “They’re like the one I do. We offer BIC courses, Great Texts courses and religion courses. So, if you’re looking for credits in those areas or you’re interested in those classes that we’re leading in, [choosing our program] is a great opportunity.”

The Study Abroad Fair has more activities in different countries. The BearsAbroad website provides more information about other choices and opportunities.

The first deadline to apply for a study abroad program is Oct. 1.