With an eye toward increasing student participation in study abroad programs, University officials have created a new pool of scholarship funds for the 2007-08 fall and spring semesters as well as the 2008 summer sessions.

"In the past five years we've seen a 54 percent increase in University of Nevada, Reno students signing up for programs managed by our University Studies Abroad Consortium," said Carmelo Urza, director. "We'd like to see this enrollment jump by an additional 10 percent in the coming year."

The new scholarship funds will enable eligible students to receive up to $2,000 for a semester and up to $1,000 for summer sessions abroad. Students must have a minimum 3.0 GPA with at least 24 credits completed at the University prior to departure.

"There is no question that these scholarships provide significant material support for University of Nevada students to study abroad," said Urza.

"The fact that the administration has provided these scholarships sends a powerful message about the importance of a viable international experience in preparing students to work and live in the 21st century."

Urza added that these scholarships "should go a long way toward addressing any financial concerns that students may have in pursuing study abroad opportunities."

Students interested in applying for the scholarships are encouraged to visit USAC staff in the Virginia Street Gym, No. 5 to fill out an application. Students also can call USAC offices (1-866-404-USAC; (775) 784-6569) or email staff at usac@unr.edu.

The deadline for fall 2007 is July 1; spring 2008 semester is Oct. 1; and next year's summer programs, March 1.

Created more than 25 years ago, Nevada's study abroad offerings today encompass academic programs at 38 sites in 25 countries. The University Studies Abroad Consortium is comprised of 33 universities, with Nevada at the helm.

More than 700 colleges and universities around the world provide their students with easy access to USAC study abroad programs. The program's popularity and growth place USAC among the largest study abroad programs today in the United States.

Melanie Robbins, editor of Our Workplace, can be reached at mrobbins@unr.edu.