Students who are looking into studying abroad next semester can prepare for their adventures by attending a workshop Wednesday.

The Study Abroad Center is offering the workshop, “Predeparture Express,” from 6 to 9 p.m. in Room 111 of East Hall.

“Anyone who is planning to leave the country over winter break or next semester should attend,” said Michelle Szabo, program assistant at the Office of International Students and Scholars.

Szabo said Predeparture Express is a one-night workshop that will give students practical tips for traveling abroad.

“We will discuss how to get the lowest airfare, how to stay safe and healthy,” Szabo said.

The workshop is a compact version of the course USt 335X-Predeparture Orientation, which is offered in the spring, Szabo said.

“This workshop is free and open to everyone,” Szabo said.

She said interested students should sign up for the workshop in the Study Abroad Center, Room 5 of Hamilton Hall. The Study Abroad Center also offers general advising Monday through Thursday at 4 p.m.

In addition to gaining a more worldly view, Szabo said students who have studied abroad are becoming more attractive to employers.

Eduarda Becerra, the study abroad coordinator in the College of Agriculture, said employers are interested in students who can show that they can understand cultures different than their own and that they have survived on their own in a different country.

“Employers now look at experience overseas,” Becerra said.

Szabo said students attending the workshop will learn how to be sensitive to other cultures.

“The workshop could be the single best investment for anyone traveling soon,” Szabo said.

There are a variety of opportunities for students overseas, she said.

“The Study Abroad Center offers 150 programs in over 50 different countries,” Szabo said. “The students can study for a semester or even a whole year. Or they can study for as short as only a week over spring break.”

Szabo reminded students that study abroad programs are available in every major and some do not require a second language.

“To study abroad is to take an academic adventure. The students can take courses that may not be offered at Iowa State and explore career options,” Szabo said.

All credits will transfer back to ISU, so students do not have to worry that studying abroad will delay graduation, Szabo said. And if expense of overseas travel is a concern, she said scholarships are available through both the Study Abroad Center and each individual college.

“Iowa State works hard to keep costs as low as possible for students would want to study abroad,” Szabo said.