A record 490 students, faculty members and administrators attended the 1994 Global Opportunities Fair in Alden Memorial on November 4, according to fair organizer Marché Haddad, who says the high turnout was a reflection of the major role that global studies play in a WPI education.
"Very few people realize that WPI is already the national leader in international education in technical fields," she says. "Nationally, only 2 percent of U.S. students study abroad. Students in engineering and technical fields are the least likely to get this opportunity. At WPI, 30 percent of our undergraduates participate in the Global Program. We are beginning to gain a national reputation in this field and we should be very proud."
Haddad says many passers-by were attracted to the fair by the activity, noise and smells. Bradford Groves from the Career Development Center said he was drawn in on his way home when the "popcorn smell whiffed by my nose and the merengue music stirred my feet." Inside Alden, visitors were greeted by ethnic music, decorations, and the flags of 80 nations. The event was fueled by the energy of more than 50 student volunteers.
The fair showcased opportunities for students to participate in WPI's Global Program, which includes more than 20 project centers and exchange programs around the globe. There were information tables for each center and programs where students could talk with the faculty directors and with students who have already participated. Leolyn Osborn of the Office of Financial Aid was on hand to answer questions about costs and funding. Representatives from two student travel agencies, Council Travel and American Youth Hostels, also attended.
All fair attendees were required to stop at passport control, where they were issued a visitors visa. Visitors could have their visas stamped at each table. Those who accumulated at least four stamps were eligible to enter a drawing for more than 20 door prizes. They included sweat shirts, T-shirts, backpacks, travel guides and many other items donated by the WPI Bookstore, Gompei's Place, Beirut Restaurant, Thomas Cook Currency Service, Council Travel, American Youth Hostels, Ecole Polytechnique in Montreal and Cuttin' Up.
Applications, program flyers and information about the Global Program are still available in the Project Center. Students interested in studying off-campus next year must apply this year by November 21.