Another Push for Science Students

As discussed here and in other forums, American students in the STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields often have few opportunities to study abroad because of rigid degree requirements and other factors.

This morning’s Columbia Spectator includes a story on one of the latest efforts to open study abroad to more STEM students. Columbia University’s Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Sciences has appointed a new director of global initiatives and education to help more students get out of the country as part of their undergraduate education.

“I will reach out to the students,” says Regine Lambrech, who comes to Columbia from Quinnipiac University and, before that, was director of international relations at French engineering school Ecole Centrale de Lyon. 

“I want to let them know that space exists in their curriculum. I really want to see engineering students go abroad.”

Only four engineering students at Columbia are studying abroad this semester, but SEAS officials say they want to see more in the coming years.