NIU students seeking adventure and excitement in places like Africa and Europe can find a starting point Thursday at the NIU Study Abroad Fair.

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Holmes Student Center’s Regency Room, students will have a chance to explore opportunities in overseas education by consulting with coordinators of study abroad programs and students who have participated in the programs.

Student financial aid staff also will be on hand to discuss loan and scholarship possibilities.

Deborah Pierce, executive director of International Programs, said she hopes to exceed last year’s turnout of more than 400 students, and hopes those who attend the fair will receive helpful information.

“They will have the opportunity to become much better informed about the study abroad options that are available to them,” she said. “One of our goals is for them to become excited by all of these options.”

Deborah Benson, Study Abroad Office program assistant, said going overseas can change a person’s perspective for the better.

Ryan Brandenburg, a junior journalism and communication major, went overseas to Europe last summer and really enjoyed the experience.

“I got to see a new place while earning academic credit and having a lot of fun,” he said. “I got to meet a lot of new people and experience different ways of life. I would definitely recommend it to people.”