TAMIU Signs Student Exchange Agreement with Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi

Texas A&M International University boosted student study abroad possibilities with the signing of a new student exchange agreement with the Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi, Mexico, this week.

University president Dr. Ray Keck was joined by his counterpart at UA-SLP, Rector Jaime Valle Mendez, for the ceremony.

Dr. Keck said the agreement extends the University's promise to help students "go further."

"This agreement with the Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi provides our students with one more exciting opportunity to realize the international mission of our University through an additional study abroad option that will help them to truly 'go further,' " Keck explained.

Keck added that he is personally pleased with the exchange opportunities now available to students in San Luis Potosi, long a favorite travel and study destination for his family.

"San Luis Potosi is a fascinating city and its University a venerable institution. I think our students and UA-SLP students will find the exchange mutually beneficial," he noted.

Jannet Garcia, director of the Office of International Programs, agreed, noting that the San Luis Potosi destination study option, which begins this Fall 20002, will offer something for students in all disciplines.

"This agreement allows for students from various disciplines, in particular sciences, nursing, and business, to spend a semester or longer at the UA-SLP while completing coursework towards their major at A&M International.

"Students eligible for financial aid and scholarships may apply it to finance their study abroad experience. More importantly, scholarships of $2,000 each are available to A&M International students to off-set travel and room and board expenses. Students can apply for the Fall 2002 semester until April 30th, 2002," Garcia said.

She noted that the signing of the student exchange agreement is the continuation of a solid partnership that has grown over the past few years.

"Joint visits have brought about a close relationship and the exploration of various collaborative activities. Student exchange is only a first step and it is expected that other areas such as joint research and faculty training will be implemented in the future," she said.

UA-SLP, located in central Mexico, has a population of approximately 17,000 students, most of whom are pursuing undergraduate, graduate, and Ph.D. degrees.

The autonomous university has been in existence for over 75 years, and has a long tradition of research and higher education. TAMIU signed a first general agreement of collaboration with UA-SLP in June of 1996. For more information, contact Garcia at 326.2565, email studyabroad@tamiu.edu or visit the Office of International Programs' website at www.tamiu.edu/oip.

University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-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