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Featuring Pat Armstrong, director of admissions, St. John's University (Queens, NY)

Q. I am interested in attending a school where studying abroad is an option. How can I find out about such programs?

A. Studying abroad is a wonderful opportunity to expand your horizons not only by visiting another country but by immersing yourself in another culture. Lifelong friendships are developed that will enrich your life forever. It's also entirely possible you'll gain an edge on the competition when you apply to graduate school, or for employment, because you've demonstrated independent thinking with a global view. In this global economy, employers look favorably on students with experience abroad.

That being said, how can you get involved in such a program? The best way to find out about  

study abroad programs

  is to simply ask the admission counselors at the colleges you're interested in attending. These professionals can fully explain the many programs offered and will be happy to put you in touch with the study abroad office on their campus. You can also request brochures from the colleges -- just send an email or call them with your request. Of course, searching the school's Web site is a great source of information, too!

Most colleges sponsor college-based programs and most belong to international organizations. Membership in organizations such as the Council on International Educational Exchange (CIEE) allow colleges to tap into many additional programs so that students may study worldwide! The length of a program can range from a summer mini-session to a semester- or year-long opportunity. Some programs offer housing in college residence halls, while others afford the unique opportunity to reside with a guest family. If you are not fluent in another language, you can still have an opportunity to study abroad as many courses are taught in English.

Another factor you'll want to consider is the transferability of Financial assistance to study abroad programs. Many grants and awards can be used as long as you maintain your full-time student status. Also, if you plan it right, you will be in a position to transfer credits back to your college and graduate on schedule. Again, all these details need to be confirmed with your college as guidelines and rules will vary.

Explore all opportunities and enjoy!

Q. Sports are very important to me. What should I know about recruiting?

A. I'm glad to hear that sports are important to you -- that's a healthy outlet for all of us whether we are on the playing field or spectators! I assume by your question that you are engaged in playing a particular sport or two and want to continue your athletic Career in college. There are many variables that go into sports recruiting guidelines, including which sport, your level of competitive experience, and whether you have garnered any special honors and achievements. college sports are played at all levels of competition so that is a factor, as well.

My recommendation is that you work with your high school coaches or local sporting organization. They can generally provide you with a fair assessment of your talents and potential for success at the college level. Also, involvement with a traveling sports league like the Amateur Athletic Union is a good way to meet players from other schools and get your own skills noticed.

Colleges at the most competitive levels have scouts who do just that; they "scout out" special talent based on national standings and statistics. On a national level, top recruited athletes are limited in number, but there is always the opportunity to be a "walk on" non-Scholarship athlete.

Not everyone can play on the competitive college level, so check out the sports environment at the schools you are interested in attending. Some questions to consider: What is the level of student participation in supporting teams? What intramural and club sports are available? Do I have the skill set needed to compete at a particular college's level?

Being successful as a student-athlete takes balance and your school's support. Before you accept admission to any school, determine if it has your best interest at heart.

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