A&M International Signs Agreement with Guanajuato University

Texas A&M International University students interested in furthering their education by participating in the University's study-abroad program can now count Guanajuato, Mexico as one of their possible study destinations.

A&M International recently signed an agreement with the Universidad Autónoma de Guanajuato, which will allow for reciprocal exchange of students between the two universities. The agreement will also facilitate the exchange of faculty members and program and research collaborations between the institutions.

Jannet Garcia, director of the Office for International Programs, said exchange opportunities with Guanajuato will start as of Spring 2000.

Reciprocal exchange means students may pay tuition at their home institution and take pre-approved classes for credit at the partner institution. The earned credits will be computed into the students' grade point average at their home institution, Garcia said, adding that students eligible for financial aid may apply to finance their study abroad.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for our students to experience a study abroad at a minimal cost, while still completing their undergraduate program at A&M International in the minimal time that is required. Also, this type of exchange allows for an almost complete immersion into the local culture, thus providing students with a realistic and whole study abroad experience," Garcia said.

A&M International President Dr. Charles Jennett said the agreement with Guanajuato is an example of the University's continued committment to provide students with a university experience that is rich in academics and cultural education.

"Our vision is to continue expanding the international aspect of the University. We are the only university whose name carries its mission of becoming 'international' and these types of programs certainly help us bring to our students opportunities for new and enlightening experiences," he said.

Undergraduate students must have completed 60 semester credit hours and have maintained a cumulative G.P.A. of 2.5 to participate in the program. An intermediate level in the language of the host country may be a requirement, said Garcia.

A&M International currently has agreements with colleges and universities in Mexico, The Netherlands, Paraguay, Chile, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Morocco, Spain and Argentina.

For further information, please contact Garcia at 326-2565. University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu