More than half of AU students will study abroad at some point in their academic careers - at least 65 percent did in 2006 - yet, as an independent survey conducted by The Eagle showed, students are generally dissatisfied with the services the AU Abroad office provides. The office received a meager score of 3.25 out of five in the survey of 168 students.
Since experiences abroad are a major factor in students' lives (if not their college decisions), it seems strange that AU has not taken more proactive measures to address student discontent with the abroad office. Sadly, the survey only provides confirming numbers and statistics to the anecdotes and horror stories circulated by those who have unsuccessfully dealt with the office in the past.
Students generally value the opportunity to change horizons and challenge cultural customs, and the expansion of AU Abroad from the previous World Capitals Program allows for more diversity and choices in travel plans. Yet, in terms of support for bewildered travelers from take-off to touchdown, AU Abroad, particularly its overworked and underinformed advisers, is failing.
Four advisers manage and coordinate 105 programs in 34 countries, making it virtually impossible for them to know everything about program requirements and regulations. Still, understaffed offices are not an excuse for poor and often incorrect information.
Even worse, except for those in the School of International Service, most students going abroad "waste" a semester taking classes that don't count towards their major. Many pay unexpected costs to go abroad, or if they choose a non-AU program, extra program fees as well. Such investment alone compels AU to provide the best experience possible. The lack of communication, high levels of bureaucracy and incompetent advice place roadblocks in front of the students.
The office should serve as an advocate and facilitator - a student's main ally before, during and after their travels. This survey should provide incentive for the streamlining and reform of the abroad system. Anything less would be a betrayal of the funds, trust and potential of the AU student body.
