Contact:

Jason Foster, SDSU Media Relations Manager
T. 619-594-2585
E. foster@mail.sdsu.edu

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SDSU Among Nation's Elite for Students Studying Abroad
University Ranked 11th Among Doctoral Institutions in U.S.

SAN DIEGO, Friday, Nov. 16, 2001 - Significant growth in the number of San Diego State University students studying overseas has planted SDSU in the top ranks of universities whose students are pursuing an international education.

The Chronicle of Higher Education report released today shows SDSU now ranks 11th among doctoral institutions nationwide for students studying abroad, with 452 in other countries during the 1999-2000 academic year. Miami University led the category, with 1,155 students.
The popularity of international study continues to rise sharply at San Diego State University. The number of students studying abroad has climbed from 167 during 1997-1998 to 619 in 2000-2001, an increase of more than 270 percent. The percentage of SDSU graduates who have studied abroad has climbed from 3.5 percent to 11.3 percent over the same four-year period.

SDSU Provost Nancy Marlin said the university is following through on its strategic plan to increase international education opportunities that prepare its students for a global future. Currently SDSU offers more than 180 international programs in 40 different countries.

"As most students will attest, study abroad is a life-changing experience; I know of nothing more powerful the university can provide as part of their undergraduate education. The world is more interconnected politically, economically and socially than ever before," she said. "We're proud of our achievements so far, but we want to reach a point where 30 percent of our graduates will have experience in another country."

Anna Woerman, an art senior, studied Italian and art history in Florence, Italy during the 2000-2001 academic year and said it gave her a new perspective on international relations.

"I wanted to experience different ways of how to approach life, to experience a different culture firsthand," Woerman said. "It was very rewarding. I've met lifelong friends, I now speak almost fluent Italian and feel much more well-rounded."

Marlin said SDSU hopes to tailor an international experience for every degree, and continue to expand opportunities to new countries. For example, SDSU soon will launch new programs with Brazil, Italy and Chile, and a triple-degree program with Canada and Mexico.

Robert Carolin, assistant director for education abroad, said opportunity is only one of the reasons more and more SDSU students are deciding to study for a semester or more in a foreign land.

"We're improving our resources here to match the increased opportunities overseas," Carolin said. "We have developed a comprehensive support network to help students succeed in their international endeavors; we have established significant financial aid to help students cover their expenses; and we hope to expand the International Student Center, where all these resources are based."

San Diego State University is the oldest and largest higher education institution in the San Diego region. Since it was founded in 1897, SDSU has grown to offer bachelor's degrees in 78 areas, master's degrees in 61 areas and doctorates in 13. SDSU's more than 33,000 students participate in academic curricula distinguished by direct contact with faculty and an increasing international emphasis that prepares them for a global future. For more information log on to www.sdsu.edu.

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