Students attend the Faculty of Arts Study/Work Abroad Fair. Photo credit: S. Bala
Embrace the World: Opportunities to Study and Work Abroad
Language Center Study/Work Abroad Fair
University is a time to gain new experiences, and studying or working abroad is a great way to do just that.
The University of Manitoba offers many opportunities for students to travel abroad and expand their horizons. To provide more information for students, the Faculty of Arts Language Center hosted a Study/Work Abroad Fair on October 9th.
The fair offered presentations from the German DAAD program, the UM International Center, the McCall MacBain International Fellowship and the JET Japan program. Additionally, booths were set up with information on countries including Iceland, Mexico, France and Spain.
John Kleiner presented information on the German DAAD program, which offers opportunities for individuals at all levels of study. DAAD has study and research programs for current students and recent graduates. Germany is a great choice for living abroad as it offers low tuition costs and high academic and living standards. DAAD also offers funding and scholarships for students to alleviate financial stress.
Naomi Fujiwara, the Student Mobility Coordinator for the UM International Center, provided information on the student exchange program. There are exchange partnerships with over 50 international institutions. Student exchange is a great way to experience another country while paying regular UM tuition and gaining credits toward your degree. There are also an array of scholarships, bursaries and awards available to help cover costs. If you are considering exchange, applications open December 1st for Summer/Fall 2025 and Winter 2026.
Colin Monk joined virtually to promote the McCall MacBain International Fellowship. This fellowship allows current students to live in a new country for a year. The year is divided into three terms: language, academic and work. MMIF has up to $30,000 available per fellowship to assist students. If you missed this presentation, Colin will present to UM students again on October 22nd, so make sure to RSVP to this event.
The Faculty of Arts Language Center works with all language departments at UM to support both students and staff. It offers computerized learning labs, tutors and many other resources to help students learn a new language. It encourages students to take language courses and go abroad to enrich their university experience.
While travelling with friends or family can be fun and exciting, living abroad allows you to truly experience the culture of a country. Victor Calvo, a linguistics honours student who went to Essen, Germany, spoke on his experience, “I gained confidence, intercultural sensitivity and made lots of friends and connections.” Living abroad allows you to see the world from a different perspective. Don’t hesitate to look into these opportunities, as they provide growth and experience.