Insil Kang ’04, who studied in Spain during her junior year, says study abroad has become part of the fabric of Willamette life. “When I came to Willamette, it seemed like everyone studied abroad. All the sophomores I met were applying to study abroad. Half of the juniors were gone one semester, the other half were gone the next. Everyone I looked up to studied abroad, so I knew I wanted to do it too.” Kang, who started working for the Office of International Education as a student, now works full time as a study abroad advisor. “The demand at Willamette for study abroad is really high.”

For Brooke Stearns ’99, it was an international learning experience that awakened her passion for international work. Since graduating, she’s worked in Washington, D.C., administering loans to fight global poverty; in Tazaneen, South Africa, working against poverty and HIV/AIDS; and in France, where she studied as a Rotary World Peace Scholar.

Ceramics artist Maria Olivares ’00 traveled to the tiny town of San Marcos Tlapazola, Mexico, to study traditional pottery making with a Mexican-Indian artist. The experience completely changed her own approach to art and gave her a deep appreciation for her Hispanic heritage. Nick Winn ’04 spent five months studying in China and came home with a new career direction. “I love this international stuff,” he says. “Now I want a career in international trade or international business.”

Unlike many universities, Willamette strives to make study abroad opportunities affordable for all students. In fact, except for airfare and incidentals like visas and spending money, costs are exactly the same as for students on campus. Regular financial aid applies to overseas study, and the University makes up any cost differences, often paying thousands of dollars per student. “Forty to 45 percent of all Willamette students will be funded by the University to study abroad for a semester or a year,” says Lou. “Study abroad is the perfect vehicle for students to find that transformative experience.”