SF State students see the world

An overseas experience can benefit students in many ways, and for an increasing number of SF State students it has become an edge for professional success.

This year, 65 SF State students -- more than ever before -- are registered on the overseas study program of the California State University system.

"In business, if you haven't been anywhere else, nobody will take you seriously," said Christine Christiansen, an international business undergraduate who spent one year in Germany improving her German. She said experience is crucial in order to meet people from all over the world, make contacts, and prove that a person can be adaptable.

"There were opportunities available I didn't even seek," she said.

Hoping to take advantage of her German, Christiansen learned more than just a foreign language.

"You learn about yourself, about things you didn't think you can do, but you can," she said.

Affiliated with 46 higher education institutions in 16 countries, including Australia, Brazil, France, Germany and Japan, the International Programs assists students in arranging the details of their year abroad, such as academic planning, transportation, visas and housing.

"The CSU system pays part of the tuition costs, and financial aid is available," said IP coordinator My Yarabinec.

Citing Spain and France as the most popular destinations, Yarabinec said $9,350 for a one-year program in Spain, including travel, room and board and transportation, can be as much as $2,000 cheaper than at SF State.

"Those who can go and don't may regret it for the rest of their lives," he said.

Yarabinec, who went to Italy on the study-abroad program in the late '60s, said studying overseas not only provides a lifetime personal experience but is also important on practical grounds.

"In an increasingly competitive world, it simply enhances your resume," he said.

The IP's programs have different eligibility guidelines. Most require a 2.75 grade point average, prior language study and certain prerequisite courses. However, students who lack some of these prerequisites may not necessarily be disqualified from a program, according to the IP office.

For Adam Raubfogel, a student in international business, his two years in Germany and Italy have given him "an extra boost in a competitive and mental sense."

"In international business, you cannot expect anything unless you've been overseas," he said.

Lee Ann Adam, an undergraduate in comparative literature, recently returned from a two-year stay in Italy where she studied Italian literature. For her, learning the language she now also tutors was a highlight of her experience.

"Not only did I learn it all there, but ended up with the highest grade possible," she said.

After graduation, Adam is heading back to Italy.

"It changed my life. I even got engaged to an Italian," she said.

A study-work-travel abroad fair with representatives of international study, work, internship and travel programs will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 4 from 9-3 p.m. at the basement level of the student union.

More information can be obtained from the International Center on 19th Avenue.

[ Golden Gater Online October 3, 1995 ]

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