Texas State students talk about studying abroad programs and internships

By: Darreane Valles

d_v110@txstate.edu

SAN MARCOS, Texas ─ Texas State students say the biggest barrier that withholds them from participating in study abroad programs and internships is the cost, lack of knowledge and the experience itself.

Photo by: Cruz Rojas

On Wednesday, a few Texas State students went around campus to get their peers thoughts and opinions on studying abroad programs and internships. Students were asked the same questions for the most part but all the answer were different.

A majority of students interviewed had not studied abroad before. The reason being they could not afford the program.

Lauren Reese, a senior at Texas State majoring in early education says she hasn’t taken part in a study abroad program because it’s pricey. She says she could consider the program if it was equivalent to a semester at Texas State.

"I guess if it cost about the same amount as a semester here, then I guess I could really think about doing it. I don’t want to be spending more money than I already am," said Reese.

Tony Place, a junior at Texas State majoring in manufacturing engineering also says that when it comes to the cost of studying abroad it is too expensive considering he has other things to pay for.

Photo by: Sawyer Click

"At the same time, though, if you have tuition, bills and rent, it becomes really hard. It'd be worth it if you could solve every problem around going," said Place.

Another problem students come across when talking about study abroad programs is lack of awareness or lack of knowledge on these programs. Student's feel that there should be more ways that Texas State can promote these programs.

Daisy Silva, a sophomore at Texas State majoring in international studies says she has not participated in any study abroad programs because she hasn't looked into them but believes Texas State could do a better job at showcasing such programs.

Photo by: Kathleen Beverick

"I guess more stands like this where you can just go up to someone. I know we get emails or we can go and ask questions or such," said Silva.

Although a few students did see a few disadvantage in studying abroad, a few students did find some advantages.

Kristen Scott, a junior at Texas State majoring in English says studying abroad could benefit her as well as other students.

"By learning about culture and gaining experience overseas and obviously abroad and experiencing new, everything," said Scott.

Photo by: Stephen Spencer

When talking about internships a few students felt that internships could be helpful but yet other times they are a requirement they feel are forced onto them.

Ollen Howard, a junior at Texas State majoring in exercise and sports science says he feels that a disadvantage to internships is that students are pressured into getting one as opposed to students going out and getting an internship on their own terms.

"Were told to apply to an internship however many months or year in advance. When you get

Photo by: Kathleen Beverick

there its not necessarily what you expected," said Howard.

One student did however participate in a internship and she said she got to learn a lot about what she does and does not like.

Naomi Wick, a junior at Texas State majoring in economics says she had an overall good experience.

"I had a lot of good experience being in an actual office environment, and it was real world experience because I was doing campaign research and inputting information that I found through the internet onto Excel sheets."

Photo by: Hannah Emmert

Students seeking more information on internships through Texas State are asked to seek information from their advisors for more knowledge on internships in their major.

Students seeking more information on Texas State study abroad programs visit the website below. http://www.studyabroad.txstate.edu/students/Becoming-Globally-Engaged.html