FAYETTE, Iowa (September 4, 2008) -- Four Upper Iowa University students left for Australia at the end of July to spend their fall term studying in UIU's new Study Abroad program. 

               The four sophomores include Erica Dahl, Fort Atkinson (criminology/Spanish); Jeff House, Maplewood, MN (business); Alisha Kilburg, Sabula (early childhood education), and Brittney Reetz, Charles City (business). They are receiving full college credit for the classes they're taking at MacQuarie University in Sydney.

               According to Chris Sanders, executive director for International Programs, Australia is an ideal destination for beginning study abroad students. In addition to minimal language barriers, most students are intrigued by the aesthetic beauty of the continent and the opportunity for travel and excursions to neighboring islands, like Fiji and New Zealand.

               "Study abroad is a life-changing experience," said Dr. DeWayne Frazier, senior vice president for International Programs. "It allows students to step outside of their comfort zone and see the world through a different lens."

               Frazier added, "It challenges them with new situations that will test their ability to adapt and learn, in addition to preparing them for success in an increasingly diverse and global workforce. Many companies increasingly desire leaders with the ability to live successfully in a variety of countries and work with co-workers of varying cultural backgrounds."

               Upper Iowa has affiliation agreements with five study-aboard providers that offer high-quality, safe, student-friendly programs. Students must complete a lengthy application process to gain acceptance into the program and location of their choice, and financial aid funds can be used to help cover program fees and related expenses. However, other costs, such as air fare, special travel/excursion costs, etc. are borne by the student.

               UIU's International Education/Study Abroad Fair will be held Friday, Sept. 12 in Garbee Hall on the Fayette Campus. Representatives from the affiliate providers will be on hand to answer any questions, which are Cultural Experiences Abroad (CEA), AustraLearn, American Institute for Foreign Studies (AIFS), International Studies Abroad (ISA), and AmeriSpan.

               In addition, the fair will feature demonstrations, native music, cultural dance, and an international fashion show put on by international students currently attending the Fayette campus. It is free and open to the general public and local school systems.

               For more information about Upper Iowa University, go to www.uiu.edu. For more information about Upper Iowa's International Education/Study Abroad Fair, contact contact Christopher Sanders at 563-425-5251 or e-mail sandersc@uiu.edu.

Contact:
Sheila Miller
Director of Public Relations
Work - 563-425-5326
Cell - 319-610-7108
Fax - 563-425-5701
millers@uiu.edu
www.uiu.edu