UT works closely with students as they plan their study abroad experience, but not many outlets exist for students to decompress after they return to the U.S.

The Study Abroad Alumni Organization hopes to fill this void on campus with innovative group discussions geared at reintroducing students to life at UT.

“For returned study abroad students, reverse culture shock is inevitable,” George Cakmes, vice-president of the organization, said in a statement. “We offer students an opportunity to discuss their experiences with people that have been in similar situations abroad.”

The organization also hopes to get the word out about post-graduate opportunities to study abroad. Guest speakers will be invited to speak on international affairs and education.

“We stress an open format in which the organization is driven by the members,” Kevin Creason, SAAO president, said in a statement. “Our meetings will be centered on the interests of our members … (and) will feature guest speakers that will help us translate our experiences into the professional world.”

Students who want to learn more about the organization are invited to send inquiries to [email protected]. The group’s meeting times will vary, but should take place on a monthly basis.

SAAO hopes to create more of a social environment that students can relax and enjoy.

“Ultimately, we are a social organization so we will get together outside of our meetings to get to know each other better,” Cakmes said.

The leadership team is excited to have completed the extensive bureaucratic process associated with forming a club.

“At UT, there is an established process to become recognized as an official organization on campus,” Creason said. “This process includes drafting a constitution, receiving confirmation from 12 members, meeting with an associate of the Dean of Students, and all the tasks that were needed to get off the ground. ”

The organization currently has 42 members across campus, but is hoping to expand in the coming year.