Annual Passport Day Celebrated with Launch of New UNT Passport Program
DALLAS, TX – The University of North Texas (UNT) celebrated its annual Passport Day on Wednesday with the launch of a new UNT Passport Program, aimed at encouraging students to study abroad and experience different cultures around the world.
The event, held at the UNT International Office, featured guest speakers, information sessions on study abroad opportunities, and a passport fair where students could apply for or renew their passports. The UNT Passport Program aims to make the process of studying abroad more accessible and affordable for students, with resources and support available to help them navigate the challenges of international travel.
“We believe that studying abroad is a transformative experience that can greatly enrich a student’s educational journey,” said Dr. Sarah Jones, Director of the UNT International Office. “Through the UNT Passport Program, we hope to provide students with the support and resources they need to make their dreams of studying abroad a reality.”
The UNT Passport Program offers a range of services and support to students, including assistance with passport applications, information on study abroad programs, and financial aid opportunities for those who may need assistance with the costs of international travel. In addition, the program offers workshops and events throughout the year to help students prepare for their time abroad and make the most of their experience.
“I’ve always wanted to study abroad, but I didn’t know where to start,” said UNT student Emily Wilson. “The UNT Passport Program has been a game-changer for me. They provided me with all the information I needed to apply for my passport and find a study abroad program that matches my interests and goals. I can’t wait to embark on this new adventure.”
In addition to the launch of the UNT Passport Program, Passport Day also featured presentations from students who have participated in study abroad programs in the past, sharing their experiences and insights with their peers. From exploring ancient ruins in Rome to volunteering at an orphanage in Thailand, these students highlighted the transformative impact that studying abroad can have on personal and academic growth.
“Studying abroad was the best decision I’ve ever made,” said UNT student Chris Martinez, who spent a semester in Japan. “I learned so much about the culture, language, and history of Japan, and I made friends from around the world. It was an experience that changed my life in ways I never imagined.”
As part of the Passport Day festivities, the UNT International Office also announced several new study abroad programs for the upcoming academic year, including opportunities in countries such as Spain, China, and Brazil. These programs offer a variety of academic and cultural experiences for students, from language immersion courses to internships and service-learning projects.
“We are committed to expanding our study abroad offerings and providing our students with a diverse range of opportunities to explore the world,” said Dr. Jones. “We want to ensure that every UNT student has the chance to study abroad and gain a global perspective that will benefit them for a lifetime.”
The UNT Passport Program has already garnered significant interest from students, with dozens of applications submitted on Passport Day alone. With the launch of this new program, UNT hopes to continue to promote a culture of international education and global citizenship on campus, inspiring students to embrace new challenges and make the most of their time at UNT.
“Studying abroad is about more than just earning credits or adding a line to your resume,” said Dr. Jones. “It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone, challenging your assumptions, and learning to see the world from a different perspective. We believe that the UNT Passport Program will help students do just that, and we look forward to supporting them on their journey.”
