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Will studying abroad delay graduation and will it be worth it?
I am hoping to study abroad to Spain, but I think it will delay graduation because I transferred schools, but is it something that I should pursue?
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Mark’s Answer
Look for an international studies program that matches your current school's cost, accepts all your credits, and meets your cultural goals. If you find one, it will be an amazing experience. If you're dreaming of a semester at sea, make sure you have financial support from your parents!
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Nedjine’s Answer
Hi Cera!
Studying abroad is the best thing I could have done for my personal and professional development. There is no race or extra reward for graduating in 4 years, but there is SO much to gain from exploring another part of the world and expanding your world view.
Here's my suggestion if you'd like to attempt to still graduate in time:
I suggest you sit down with your academic advisor and figure out the credits and courses you need to graduate on time. Then, look for your required courses on the website of the schools in Spain. Compare the course bios and requirements to ensure they align. Don't just look at one school in Spain! You may find another school that more closely aligns with your home universities requirements. Also, double check how many courses you can take in one semester in Spain. My home university required 5 courses a semester, but when I studied abroad I could only take 4 each semester.
Once you have a 1-2 options that offer your home universities credits, bring that back to your advisor for review. To be extra sure, I would also suggest scheduling some time with the head of the department for your major to double confirm that the schools abroad will meet your home universities requirements.
Again don't let graduating a semester or two later deter you. There's something really special about studying abroad as a student that you can never replicate. It will also make you a much more competitive candidate in the job market.
Studying abroad is the best thing I could have done for my personal and professional development. There is no race or extra reward for graduating in 4 years, but there is SO much to gain from exploring another part of the world and expanding your world view.
Here's my suggestion if you'd like to attempt to still graduate in time:
I suggest you sit down with your academic advisor and figure out the credits and courses you need to graduate on time. Then, look for your required courses on the website of the schools in Spain. Compare the course bios and requirements to ensure they align. Don't just look at one school in Spain! You may find another school that more closely aligns with your home universities requirements. Also, double check how many courses you can take in one semester in Spain. My home university required 5 courses a semester, but when I studied abroad I could only take 4 each semester.
Once you have a 1-2 options that offer your home universities credits, bring that back to your advisor for review. To be extra sure, I would also suggest scheduling some time with the head of the department for your major to double confirm that the schools abroad will meet your home universities requirements.
Again don't let graduating a semester or two later deter you. There's something really special about studying abroad as a student that you can never replicate. It will also make you a much more competitive candidate in the job market.
Updated
Claire’s Answer
I spent the spring semester of my junior year studying in France, and it was an incredible experience. While your graduation timeline might vary based on your credits, there are often chances to take classes abroad that count toward your degree, depending on your major. I took courses in Economics, Language, Architecture, Culture, and Fashion while I was in France, there can be a lot of options for courses depending on your program. Your university likely has study abroad advisors who can help you figure out if studying abroad works with your credits or suggest programs that fit your schedule. You can also consider studying abroad during the summer or J term if your school offers it. If you get the chance to study abroad, I strongly encourage you to go for it. It's an opportunity to explore the world, meet wonderful people, challenge yourself, and discover more about who you are as a global citizen. Good luck!