A&M International Office Expands Study Abroad Opportunities for Students

If all the world's a stage, Texas A&M International University students have a new doorway to a global stage of study abroad opportunities.

The University's new Office for International Programs offers numerous support services for students, faculty members and staff who wish to study, work or conduct research abroad.

Created in Sept. 1999 to include services for all four Colleges, the Office is directed by Jannet Garcia, who said it's a natural complement to the University's international mission.

"The Office complements the word 'international' in A&M International in every way because we are increasing the number of international students and programs here on campus and our faculty members and students are going abroad and bringing their experiences back to our classrooms," Garcia explained.

A&M International enjoys agreements with more than 20 higher education institutions and universities in Argentina, Canada, Chile, Azerbaijan, France, Germany, Mexico, Morocco, Paraguay, The Netherlands and Spain.

The Study Abroad Programs at A&M International offer students various options. Students can participate in summer programs or semester-long programs while receiving A&M International credit for course work, Garcia said.

The Office also serves as a contact point for foreign students and faculty members at A&M International's partner universities who are planning to travel to A&M International to study or work.

The Office maintains an exhaustive resource library which is helpful in coordinating travel and study opportunities, Garcia noted.

Students are also advised to match their study interests with appropriate institutions, Garcia said.

"We consider ourselves a one-stop shop for all," Garcia said, "We would like to encourage students and faculty members to take advantage of our office and learn of the seamless opportunities that study, work or research abroad can bring," she said.

Registration for Spring classes is Jan. 9.

For registration, enrollment and admissions information, visit the University's website at http://www.tamiu.edu, email the Office of Enrollment Management at enroll@tamiu.edu or call 326.2200.

For further information on Study Abroad Programs, please contact Garcia at 326-2566, visit offices located Pellegrino Hall 215 or e-mail jannetg@tamiu.edu.

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