Academics

      Penn State to host virtual Study Abroad Week events Feb. 1-5

      Though pandemic has impacted study abroad programming, virtual events will help students prepare for the future resumption of international studies

      Credit: Penn State. Creative Commons

      UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Students interested in learning about future study abroad opportunities at Penn State can attend Study Abroad Week, to be held virtually the week of Feb. 1-5.

      Although current study abroad programming has been cancelled due to the pandemic, students who may wish to go abroad in the future should learn what is involved and begin thinking about their experiences well ahead of time.

      “The safety of our students, faculty and staff are the top priority,” said Brian Brubaker, director of Education Abroad in Global Programs at Penn State. “While education abroad programming is currently paused in light of the global pandemic, we are committed to providing students with the information they’ll need to have a successful study abroad experience in the future.”

      The week’s events — available to students at all of Penn State’s campuses — offer a plethora of useful information for students as they make study abroad decisions at any time in their academic careers.

      “Students who are interested in study abroad for any point in the future will get a lot out of these sessions — whether they hope to go in fall 2021 or even in spring 2023,” said Briana Casey in the office of Education Abroad. ”As we continue to hope and try to stay flexible and transparent about the possibility of study abroad in upcoming semesters, we want to provide the best information we can to help them prepare to make informed choices.”

      Students who register for Study Abroad Week programming can attend any session, and students who register by Jan. 29 and attend at least one session will be eligible for a prize drawing to take place at the end of the week. Students can register for the Zoom sessions here.

      This year, as in years past, the Office of Global Programs will partner with other departments and academic colleges to host the information sessions and workshops.

      Throughout the week, students can expect to learn about:

      • Basic steps for applying for study abroad (including a Friday session geared towards Commonwealth Campus students)
      • Funding sources, scholarships, and financial aid for study abroad
      • Academic planning during a study abroad experience
      • Faculty-led program opportunities

      For a full schedule of events, visit the Study Abroad Week webpage.

      “Study Abroad Week offers students a deeper understanding of what it's like to study abroad and provides them with the chance to speak directly with education-abroad advisers, international program and internship representatives, and their peers who have had an international experience,” said Ketja Lingenfelter, assistant director for student global engagement in the College of Agricultural Sciences.

      Students can also find the University’s most current information about studying abroad, how to apply, and the status of programs, including if and when they become available, by visiting:

      For more information about Study Abroad Week, contact Briana Casey at bkc5202@psu.edu. 

      Last Updated February 3, 2021

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