Record-Setting Number of Underrepresented Students Enroll in IES Abroad Programs in 2009-2010

As a result of IES Abroad’s Diversity Initiative, a record-setting number of underrepresented students attended IES Abroad programs during the current academic year, comprising roughly 19% of IES Abroad's total student body.

Students from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups attending IES Abroad study abroad programs grew by 9.4% for the Fall 2009 term and 13.5% for the Spring 2010 term.

IES Abroad defines diverse or underrepresented students as members of a racial or ethnic minority, a low-income student, a first-generation-to-college student, and/or someone who has demonstrated a history of overcoming adversity.

"We are extremely pleased with the increasing numbers of underrepresented students in our programs, particularly during a period of great financial challenge for students and their families. IES Abroad continues to look for new ways to introduce more underrepresented students to the life-changing experience of studying abroad," said Dr. Mary Dwyer, president and CEO of IES Abroad. "Our goal is simple — to make studying abroad possible for every student at all our partner schools."

As part of its diversity initiative, IES Abroad employs a full-time diversity coordinator, the only study abroad provider to do so. IES Abroad also publishes the Global IDEA Series (Initiative to Diversify Education Abroad) brochures for underrepresented students and their parents. Brochures include: International Education: A Path to Your Career; A Parent's Guide to Study Abroad — available in English and Spanish; and A Student's Guide to Study Abroad.

Visit the IES Abroad website to download the brochures and find information about financial aid and other resources for diverse students.