iFriend is a cultural exchange program that allows students to learn about other cultures and make new friends.  American students are grouped with international students, and pairs meet once per week for 8 weeks to discuss cultural topics and participate in cultural activities.  Registration opens at the beginning of each long semester (Fall or Spring). To be put on an interest list, email ICPrograms@utdallas.edu.

iEngage is a weekly conversation class with a cultural twist!  Sessions are held on Tuesday afternoons throughout the semester from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Check the Comet Calendar for session topics and dates. All students are welcome!

International Week (iWeek) is a tradition that celebrates the cultural diversity of UT Dallas. Events typically include a showcase of cultures, a brew house with tea and coffee from around the world, henna, a global talent show, and more.  iWeek is held every April and offers many opportunities to get involved and volunteer.  For more information, visit the iWeek website.

The Peace Corps Prep Program is a special opportunity for UT Dallas undergraduate students to combine their coursework, volunteer service, and hands-on experience while advancing toward a certificate offered by Peace Corps.  Students enrolled in the Peace Corps Prep Program will be better prepared to serve as Peace Corps volunteers in the future or to work in any other global setting.  The program identifies four core competencies that each undergraduate student needs to build before graduation:

• Training and Work Experience
• Professional and Leadership Development
• Intercultural Competence (including study abroad)
• Foreign Language Skills

To learn more, visit the Peace Corps Prep Program website.

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Studying abroad allows you to develop skills and competencies that are increasingly valuable in today's globalized economy, including:
  The key to selling your time abroad is to show how your experiences relate to your professional development by citing real-world applications throughout your job search.  For résumé, cover letter, and job interview tips, refer to the How to Highlight Your Study Abroad Experience in a Job Search information sheet.

Graduate Degree Abroad: If your career path requires advanced study, consider earning your graduate degree abroad.  Use these online listings to find programs offered in your area of study:

• GoAbroad.com
• GoOverseas.com
• StudyAbroad.com
• LessonsFromAbroad.org

Work Abroad: Interested in working abroad after graduation? Here are some tips to help turn your dream into a reality:

• Research 20 companies or organizations in your country of interest
• Search globally-oriented job sites and identify 5 opportunities that fit your skill set and career path
  • GoAbroad Work Abroad Programs
  • Jobbatical
  • GoinGlobal
  • Escape the City
  • Idealist
• Stay up-to-date on opportunities by joining an email list specifically for those interested in a global career, such as the Global Career Adventures Email Club or the IntJobs Newsletter.

Travel Abroad: Your curiosity about the world doesn't have to end with your study abroad experience in college. There are plenty of ways to continue building your skills and learning about other cultures while on personal travel abroad. 

• Educational Travel Finder offers a listing of adventures specifically for curious travelers who are no longer in college. Opportunities include studying agroforestry in Peru, learning from a professional photographer in Norway, protecting elephants in Thailand, and more!
• Lifelong Learning Abroad coordinates study programs in Paris for non-traditional learners.  Spend a month in the City of Lights taking cooking classes, learning French, and exploring cultural attractions.