Here's some things I learned at that workshop Monday lunch time: (I knew it was about international students, but I didn't know it was about Study Abroad!!  And with Aaron doing that (in Spain,) it made it especially relevant.  The main emphasis was how the University of Minnesota is working on increasing the number of students participating.  Currently, the average number of students studying abroad for any point in time before they graduate college is 4%.  That's not very big.  The committee's goal is to increase that number at the U if M to 50% by 2005. (it's been pushed for a couple years now) but the president said that even if it takes several years for that to happen, he'll support it- (with words and money.)  They also are pushing for teachers to 'internationalize' their courses- and we all discussed what some hesitations would be, but they compensate (financially) for participating teachers, and have good suggestions and support groups.  I was really impressed w/ the whole presentation (professional, thorough)- everyone seemed excited and had creative ideas of how to accomplish things/understand things. At one point, everyone had to change one thing about our appearance, and at another, a lady described how all the teachers participating in the program went to the Arborium for the day, and how they relaxed, listened to calming music, meditated, and then clicked and clucked at each other, instead of speaking- - now doesn't that sound fun?  (hehe- think of a professor doing that!)

Lastly, there were 5 Factors that typically keep someone from studying abroad. (me? it's not even given as a option at my school, and I haven't really thought of it- but I bet it'd be great! this is my last semester- and I can work abroad maybe) I think they can be applied to a lot of things we're stopped from (like my future job after graduation). They are:
FINANCES
FIT
FACULTY and ADVISOR SUPPORT
FEAR
FAMILY & FRIENDS