Some of life's best lessons are learned beyond classroom walls - and MSU's study-abroad program is continuing to prove this.

MSU's commitment to leadership in international study programs recently has been marked by growing student interest in programs such as the College of Engineering's session in Russia.

This program is expected to become the largest of the university's entire study-abroad catalog. Students should participate in MSU's study-abroad opportunities, especially since the university has been ranked as having the best international studies program in the nation.

From the numbers, it looks as if some students are taking full advantage of these opportunities. More than 2,000 students studied abroad in 2001-02 by participating in the 192 programs offered by MSU in 62 countries.

Studying away from home and the university is more than just an educational opportunity -