The Mississippi State International Institute’s Office of Study Abroad will host its fall Study Abroad Fair Oct. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the first floor of the Colvard Student Union. 

The fair will feature all exchange programs that can earn students academic credit towards majors, minors and elective requirements. 

Students can study in many different parts of the world, including countries in Europe, Latin America, Asia, the Middle East and more.

Studying abroad allows students to visit places all around the world that they have never been to before. It allows them to study at distinguished universities throughout the world and immerse themselves in different cultures. 

Alex Mazzola, junior biology pre-med major, said her experience in the Summer 1 Alcalá de Henares study abroad program in Spain was amazing. 

“My program was centered on learning the Spanish language and culture,” Mazzola said. “My favorite part of studying abroad in Spain was the ability to travel the country, particularly being only 40 minutes from Madrid, which is centrally located, and experiencing the rich culture in different cities.”

Mazzola said the classes she took while in Spain, as well as the experience she had visiting the country, helped her with the Spanish language. 

“My confidence in understanding and speaking Spanish has greatly increased with this experience,” Mazzola said, “and I know it will help others who want to learn another language and who want to become more cultured. I highly recommend studying abroad.” 

Kelley Mazzola, junior history major, said she also had a great experience during her six-week program in Berlin. 

“My program was focused on improving German language and learning German culture through immersion,” Kelley said. “One of my favorite parts was exploring the culture and learning the language along side so many other students of different nationalities and backgrounds.” 

She also said studying abroad helped her in more ways then simply receiving college credit. 

“This experience has helped me improve my German and given me invaluable experiences,” Mazzola said. “I would most certainly do it again.”

Students interested in studying abroad should bring any questions they have about the classes, countries, scholarships, or anything else to ask the faculty and staff at the Study Abroad Fair.

Students unable to attend the fair can contact the International Institute by calling 662-325-8929, or visiting the International Institute office in 116 Allen Hall.