It's terrific to be here in the Palazzo Capponi
which is a restored 16th century Palazzo in
Florence, Italy, home to one of our great
study abroad programs and when we talk about
the 'Why Madison?' tour, we thought it was
important to cover all of the University both
on campus and off campus so this is a natural
extension, it's a part of who we are, our
presence in counties around the world and
Florence is one of the very important sites
where we have had a long standing relationship
We've met with students, faculty and staff
who are involved with our program here.
Earlier we were in Salamanca, Spain and the
next stop on this trip is to London, England
so three different study abroad sites, three
different types of experiences all of which
really enrich our students' education.
One of the things that has deeply impressed
me on this first visit to our study abroad
programs is how well organized they are we
have staff and faculty on the ground in these
cities, in these locations who know the local
culture who have local contacts with other
universities for example and with other people
who are involved in culture and involved in
city life and social life in these locations.
So they help these students every step of
the way.
I think if I had to to sum up what I have
seen at this stage of being able to visit
two of the campuses for the international
education, I think it adds a what I would
call a fourth dimension.
I think the education you receive at the University
would be three dimensional and by coming to
the foreign country, it adds that fourth dimension
that gives you the taste, it gives you the
feel of knowing exactly how to the other side
operates, the other side lives.
One of the great things about the study abroad
programs that we offer at James Madison University
is there's something for everybody.
So students of all different majors and disciplines
and interests can get something out one or
more of these programs.
John Alger, new President, is very serious
on making sure JMU grads are engaged in the
world and no program I can think of can create
that atmosphere any better than study abroad.
I really do believe that study abroad is a
necessity not a luxury for an institution
like James Madison.
If we're serious about wanting students to
be engaged with ideas and the world, to learn
how to be citizens not just of the United
States, but citizens in a global community
and participants in a global economy.
There's no substitute for this kind of experience
the doors to rest of the world will be open
to you, that is what we have to offer at James
Madison University.
So yes, you'll experience our home campus
and all that we have to offer, but will also
have opportunities to see the world and to
participate actively in it.
I think that's a very exciting combination
for any student.
