While many students study abroad through OU’s international studies programs, one student has made the most of his opportunities and studied on four different continents within the past year.

International and area studies junior Matthew Mead said his passion for travel doesn’t stem from one specific source.

“I’ve always kept up with international news and had a heart for people,” Mead said. “It’s so great to get to know the people from the country you’re in — really learn the culture and get a feel for their hearts and attitudes.”

Mead, a Tulsa native and Berryhill High School graduate, began his studies abroad last summer with the Journey to China program, when he traveled to Xi’an, Kunming, Lijiang and Beijing.

He spent fall 2010 at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. Mead returned to Oklahoma for most of winter break before departing for Bogazici University in Istanbul, Turkey where he is currently studying.

Mead said anyone studying abroad is likely to feel homesick, but he offered his personal remedies.

“My trick is just making and having good friends while I’m in a different country but also keeping in contact with friends and family at home,” Mead said.

He said the most important lesson he has learned abroad has not been about any foreign culture but rather pertains to his own — the culture of America.

“[America] is where I was born and raised, the culture I’m used to and am learning to love, and most importantly where most everyone I love lives,” Mead said.

Mead said his favorite experience so far has been tutoring children in South African townships through the University of Pretoria.

He was initially inspired in high school to pursue a degree in international and area studies after watching the film Invisible Children, which documents the abduction and forced military enlistment of children in Uganda.

“[The film] pretty much changed my life and ultimately led me to where I am today after I got involved with the group at OU,” Mead said

After graduating, Mead said he would like to work or do research for an international human rights organization.

According to the OU Factbook, 430 students were listed as international and area studies majors in fall 2010, a 9.7 percent increase from 392 just one year before.

And the college expects to see continued growth. The Daily reported on Feb. 10 that the program is campaigning for $14 million to renovate and increase student opportunities within the college.

Keep up with Matthew on his blog.