Sarah Elizabeth Sakaguchi, MA
Coordinator for Educational Pathways for International Centers and Students (EPICS)
311 Turley Center
Fairmont State University
1201 Locust Ave
Fairmont, WV 26554
(304) 367-4490
Sarah.Sakaguchi@FairmontState.edu
"It’s both an educational experience & humanizing experience."
Sara Garcia – traveled to Quebec
"They say immersion is the best experience. Afterwards, when you can hold a conversation, it opens up a lot for the future."
Chris Vance – traveled to lower/central Mexico for one month
"It's a lot to adjust to, but experiences build wisdom and appreciation. It taught me to live each moment in life for what it is rather than being stuck in the past or consumed with what the future may or may not bring."
Lindsay Menas – two semesters of study in Calabria, Italy
Study abroad can be an important part of any program of study at Fairmont State. International experience develops a global perspective and human connections with the world at home and abroad. Students who choose to study internationally enhance their career possibilities and further their personal development. A variety of opportunities are available to fit the goals and situation of many students. The International Study Coordinator will help to identify appropriate programs and register intent to participate. Fairmont State students have successfully completed programs in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, with program length ranging from one week to one academic year. Programs are carefully screened to allow for transfer of credit back to Fairmont State University upon successful completion. With advance planning and approval, students will not fall behind on progress toward their degree.
Study abroad is appropriate for students seeking any degree on campus. In addition to broadening experience and gaining confidence, students gain insight into higher education in other countries and the daily lives of their fellow students. This perspective adds depth of knowledge to their program of study, and to their future career in any field.
A relationship with our affiliate KEI offers students the opportunity to transfer financial aid and scholarship packages to their study abroad experience. Students are also eligible for an affiliate discount on KEI semester programs. Students may incorporate language learning into their study abroad experience. Cultural immersion is an excellent way to acquire language skills. Students may also choose to study at an English-language university, found in many countries even where English is not the official language. The situation varies greatly with each student and each program.
It is important that students and faculty work closely with the International Study Coordinator whenever they leave the country under university sponsorship. We have developed procedures to support safety and security abroad, and to respond efficiently in an emergency situation. The Office of International Study monitors international situations in order to make wise decisions together with our international
travelers.
Fairmont State University offers experiences in the following categories of international study travel :
To qualify for a study abroad experience, students must :