In 1991, all of UF's international services were scattered around campus. That same year, only 300 UF students were sent to study abroad.
During the 2008-2009 school year, more than 2,200 UF students studied abroad, and this year, the UF International Center is celebrating its 20th anniversary.
The UFIC not only provides study-abroad programs for students, but it also aids international students studying at UF during their stay in Gainesville. It also brings international program development into the classroom, said David Sammons, dean of the UF International Center.
The center has a 40-person staff with several region-specific advisers.
It also has 70 peer advisers who are available to talk with students about their study-abroad experiences.
A university's principle function is to serve the world and make it a better place, Sammons said.
The UFIC will hold a study-abroad fair Sept. 21 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Reitz Union Colonnade. At the fair, students can talk with people who have already studied abroad and learn more about available study-abroad programs.
