SVSU Study Abroad Program will host the 2026 Study Abroad Expo Sept. 30 from noon to 2:30 p.m. in the Cardinal Commons.
The expo will give students an opportunity to learn more about studying abroad and explore programs available through SVSU.
Kaylin Solack, a study abroad peer advisor, emphasized the importance of students attending the event, even if they are unsure about studying abroad.
“I highly recommend that anyone who can, should come to the expo,” said Solack. “And for anyone who is interested in studying abroad, make an appointment with an advisor. There are so many opportunities available for SVSU students, and the advisors are here to help you find the perfect one.”
Karley Fischer, a third-year marketing major at SVSU who will be studying abroad in Panama through the Vitito Global Leadership Institute, said she hopes the experience will help her grow as a leader.
“I think that studying abroad will help me grow as a leader by exposing me to what life is like in other cultures and allowing me to evaluate the similarities and differences from a leadership mindset,” said Fischer. “Studying abroad will also push me out of my comfort zone by placing me in an entirely new environment with different social norms, allowing me to learn new things and grow as an individual.”
The expo will feature eight program providers, which help SVSU students participate in study abroad opportunities. Seven faculty-led programs will also be represented, including the biology department’s trip to the Cayman Islands, the marketing department’s trip to the Netherlands and the nursing program’s Tanzania Interprofessional Study Abroad.
Solack said students should not be afraid to attend if they are unfamiliar with the study abroad process.
“I know it may seem scary, but the SVSU Study Abroad Office does everything in their power to make the process as smooth as possible, and studying abroad is something you will never regret,” Solack said. “Plus, think of it this way: you will never again have the opportunity to use scholarships and financial aid to help pay for a trip. So take the opportunity while you have it.”
Beyond academics, Solack said studying abroad can also provide students with opportunities for personal growth.
“Studying abroad gets you out of your comfort zone and gives you memories and stories that will last a lifetime,” she said. “It builds confidence, and can open up a side of you that you’ve never known before. Plus, on top of that, you also get the opportunity to experience what life is like in another part of the world and see things that you’ve never seen before.”
