Student Government Association honored for improvement efforts

The Prairie View A&M University International Affairs office hosted a Study Abroad Fair Wednesday in the MSC Ballroom.
This event was used to expose students to the various opportunities that are available and allowed them to see the excellent study abroad programs in the world.
Lisa Fields, host of the fair and director of the office, said that it is "a great opportunity" and encourages all students to look into the different ventures available.
For students to participate in Study Abroad programs there are a few requirements; students must be enrolled with the university, have completed at least 30 undergraduate hours, have at least a 2.5 GPA, and the approval of their advisor, department head, and dean.
The MSC ballroom was lined with different companies featuring the different Study Abroad programs as well as a table set up for the United States Postal Office to explain the necessary documents and cost of obtaining a passport.
One of the tables featured the "Semester At Sea" program hosted by the University of Virginia. Over 600 students aboard the ship would engage in educational classes daily, and have the opportunity to travel to over 15 countries throughout the program.
Another program featured was the American Institute for Foreign Study hosted by a variety of universities around the world, and allows students to choose a program that caters more to their desired studies and interests.
A representative at the table for the United States Postal Service, said that students in the study abroad programs generally need a passport, but the prices vary depending on whether they are traveling by land, sea, or if a student has to fly.
If students have to fly, they must obtain a traditional book passport which will cost a$135 if they are over the age of 16 and if they are traveling by land or sea, they will need a passport card which will cost $55; both types of passports will need to be applied for with a photo ID and a birth certificate.
Many of the students concluded that the fair was an enjoyable experience and they learned about the many opportunities available to learn more about different cultures.
Fields was overjoyed by the success of the fair. "Very, very successful, we've had quite a few students, as well as faculty and staff that came out despite the rainy weather," she noted.