As a general overview, Generation Study Abroad is an initiative from the Institute of International Education (IIE) to increase the number of American students who study abroad and to ensure that our graduates are prepared and ready to contribute to the global workforce. The initiative looks to increase the diversity of students who study abroad, remove barriers to participation and ensure quality experiences for all of those involved. We picked out the three most important reasons Generation Study Abroad should be on your radar. We also surveyed our staff to get their opinion on the Generation Study Abroad initiative.
Without further ado, here are the 3 reasons you should become familiar with Generation Study Abroad…
1. Generation Study Abroad’s Goal is Pretty Impressive
Generation Study Abroad aims to double the number of American students studying abroad by the end of the decade (2020). That means they need YOU in order to reach this goal, so if you needed a sign that you should study abroad: this is it!
2. Less than 10% of U.S. Students Study Abroad
International experience has increasingly become one of the most important components of a 21st century education. Studying abroad specifically is one of the best ways college students can acquire international experience necessary to succeed in today’s global market. By increasing the number of students entering the workforce with international experience, we are effectively making the market, as a whole, more diverse and culturally competent.
3. Towson University has Committed to this Initiative
Towson University and Towson Abroad have joined some 450 other partners from across the country and have committed to increasing the number of Towson students who study abroad by 40% by 2020. The reason this matters is because we can’t do it without you – our students, faculty, staff, and the whole Towson community.
“We wholeheartedly support this initiative because we believe it will help to create a generation of young people who will leave Towson ready to make a positive difference in the world.”
– Dr. Timothy Chandler, TU President
“What does the Generation Study Abroad initiative mean to you?/Why is it needed?”
