FAMU celebrates international education week of activities
By Bre-Shara McCall
Outlook Writer
On Nov. 18, dozens of students gathered in Perry-Paige auditorium in honor of the International Education Week (IEW). IEW is a nation-wide celebration to promote and encourage students to participate in international education endeavors.
The Florida A&M University (FAMU) Office of International Education and Development, in conjunction with the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice introduced “International Education Opportunities,” a forum specifically dedicated to providing students with information about international education.
“I cannot express to you enough the importance, as you develop academically and personally, of exposure to things international. You need to know what’s going on in the world around you,” said panelist Michael Thurston, Diplomat in Residence, U.S. Department of State.
Students were introduced to a few international education avenues, which would transform them into global ambassadors if carried out.
With Education Abroad, students can volunteer, study or intern abroad for credit in over 12 countries during Fall, Spring and Summer semesters. Various scholarships are available, as well as financial aid for those who qualify.
The Peace Corps is a volunteer program promoting world peace and friendship, which expands across more than 60 countries. Volunteers can choose fields in agriculture, youth in development, education, environment, health and Peace Corps Response fields. Volunteers must commit for 27 months to receive benefits.
Camp Adventure Youth Services, an award winning model demonstration program, incorporates the principles of service learning into the educational experiences of individuals. The program has been implemented at over 27 countries/territories including Belgium, Greece, Hong Kong, Singapore, Spain, the United Kingdom and more. Travel expenses are covered, in addition to a meal stipend.
The U.S. Department of State offers unpaid student internships during Fall, Spring and Summer semesters in Washington, D.C., U.S. Embassies or consulates oversees. Other opportunities are Pathways, a federal government program designed to introduce students and recent graduates to a career in the federal service, which include The Internship Temporary Experience Program (ITEP) and Internship Experience Program (IEP).
Panelist Melvin Middleton, coordinator of Camp Adventure Youth Services at FAMU, reflected on how participating in Camp Adventure made him more marketable. “It is a tremendous resume builder, it has opened a lot of doors for me,” said Middleton.
If students have any questions or concerns, they may contact Karen Mitchell, study abroad coordinator at karen. mitchell@famu.edu or visit the Office of International Education, Perry-Paige Building, suites 302-305.
