May X Study Away programs announced at Study Away Fair

Small national flags, tasty international treats and plenty of information was passed out on Wednesday afternoon at Furman University’s Study Away Fair in the James P. Duke Library’s Blackwell Atrium.

The event was a chance for Furman students to explore what Study Away has to offer in terms of curriculum, amenities and, most importantly, location. From Taipei to Scotland, New Zealand to Costa Rica, different destinations got their moment in the sun, and each had something unique to offer.

“The destinations that stand out to me each year are those that get students out of their comfort zones,” said Nancy Georgiev, director for Study Away and International Education at Furman. “We offer such a wide variety of program experiences, and they highlight intercultural competencies, critical reflection and building skills.”

A faculty member discusses Study Away to Ireland at the Studey Away Fair at the James B. Duke Library. Photo by Owen Withycombe, Furman University

This year’s Study Away Fair was originally scheduled for September 28, during Family Weekend, and would normally include students and their families perusing the national and international options. Unfortunately, Georgiev said, Tropical Storm Helene forced a postponement. The May Experience Study Away registrations were announced and opened on September 28, but they were not highlighted until October 16.

Among the May X announcements were trips to France, Italy, Switzerland, England, Thailand, New Zealand, Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Ireland, South Africa, Denmark, Portugual, Greece, Scotland, Turkey, Poland, Sweden and Costa Rica. For those students who wish to remain inside the United States, experiences are planned for New York City, New Mexico and one that focuses on indigenous culture throughout the Southwest.

All told, 30 tables were set up at the Study Away Fair and between 250 and 300 students made their way through the event over two hours. Georgiev said it was a pleasant surprise to see all the interactivity, especially after the event had to be pushed back a couple weeks.

“So much time and effort goes into creating a Study Away program and putting together the Study Away Fair,” she said. “The big reveal is a culmination and celebration of all that hard work.”

Registration is currently open for Study Away and May X programs. For more information, visit studyaway.furman.edu.