Getting the Most Out of the EA Fair

The Education Abroad Fair is the place to start for the first phase of your study abroad journey. The Education Abroad Fair is a one-stop-shop where students can get an overview of the study abroad programs available through Penn State.  

Students can speak to education abroad advisers, representatives from the Penn State University Park academic colleges, and national and international global partners. Representatives from Penn State Student Aid and other service representatives are also available for questions. 

Education Abroad Fair Expectations 

Students should aim to gather as much information as possible, from as many programs as possible to begin to narrow down which global experience will be the best fit. Students should not expect to select their program at the Education Abroad Fair; this is an opportunity to gather information, ask basic questions, and identify resources available. With over 1300 attendees, the Education Abroad Fair can often seem overwhelming. It is important to remember that you can later bring specific questions to an education abroad adviser in an individual appointment after collecting general information at the Education Abroad Fair.

Education Abroad Fair Checklist 

There are many things you can do both before and during the Education Abroad Fair in order to make the most out of the experience.

Before the Education Abroad Fair 

During the Education Abroad Fair

  • If unable to take the pre-fair steps, chat with the Welcome Booth or Peer Adviser Booth for a brief overview
  • Check with your college representatives to find out which programs relate best with your major and college-specific rules and regulations for studying abroad
  • Chat with the visiting partners to learn about their programs and services
  • Chat with past participants and exchange students to get information about specific programs and countries

Sample Education Abroad Student Goals & Outcomes

  • Identify and list five programs, regions, or fields of study of interest 
  • Identify three components that are important to you in a program (eg. language skills, service-learning opportunities, cultural immersion, cost, internships)

After the Education Abroad Fair

  • Reflect on the programs you learned about during the Education Abroad Fair and review any information you gathered
  • Speak to an academic adviser and schedule an appointment with an education abroad adviser
  • Start to research scholarships and grants
  • Discuss opportunities with your parents and/or family. Invite them to attend the Parents and Family Study Abroad 101 during Parents and Family Weekend