The Mason Study Abroad Program Creates Unique Opportunities for Students That Last A Lifetime

By Jessica C. Sabo

George Mason University prides itself on being one of the most diverse campuses in the nation. The administration feels that it is important for today's generation to be more culturally aware of the world in an effort to make it a better place.

"I think that it is important for students to study abroad in order to open their eyes to new things,new cultures, new languages, new friends, new RESPONSABILITIES even.  What better time to go abroad than during college," explains Erin Mateu, a program officer at the Center for Global Education. "I think that international exposure is a very important part of higher education.  The onset of globalization has even made study abroad essential, and not only important."

Many young students at Mason have realized what Mateu has been trying to explain and have begun to take the initiative to study abroad early on. Traditionally, a student needs 45 credit hours to study abroad, however Carmen Dennis, a freshman at Mason, has already begun doing her research to spend a semester in Spain.

"[The Center for Global Education] has let me use their books and other resources, given me flyers, and also given me information about loans and scholarships that could assist me to study in Spain," explains Dennis.

Next Page>