alexa
Would you recommend studying abroad for a portion of college?
Most people say that studying abroad is an opportunity you should most definitely not pass up, however I don't know if i should do it if it isn't 100% beneficial to my academics #college #graduate
3 answers
Nouha Herradi
Nouha’s Answer
Having pursued my studies abroad – UK – I can confirm that I have the best memories and experiences there. It changed me as a person for the better and it shaped my thinking and how I saw the world.
True, it is a hard decision to make – namely because you take off to a different country, different culture all together, and different environment to what you have known so far but that’s where the opportunity lay. It’s an enriching experience that will allow you to discover yourself as an individual and will definitely benefit you later on down the line not only academically and professionally in the long term but in your daily interactions.
Pursuing your studies abroad will help you get a great education – agreed, but along the way you will meet some amazing people from all corners of life; coming from different countries and cultures, having lived their own experiences – I believe that richness of interaction and shared knowledge in itself is incomparable and will stay with you for a lifetime.
It will get tough at times but isn’t what life is about.
You can see it this way – would getting a curriculum for a particular degree and preparing it yourself without any interaction or in your home environment similar to learning it in a multicultural setting – interacting and learning from international faculty, making friends and building long terms relationships with people from various nationalities. I think that experience in itself changes us as individuals and opens up our mind, vision and perspective on different aspect of life. That’s what makes its worth living. It’s the people that counts. Expanding your horizons beyond the present. Getting outside of your comfort zone. Just to name a few.
My final word would be – if you have the chance don’t miss it!
Good luck and enjoy the journey!
Mohan Narayan
Mohan’s Answer
THE STUDY ABROAD DECISION
Why Study Abroad?
Students choose to study abroad for a variety of reasons. Some are purely interested in travel; living in another country provides a perspective well beyond the scope of most tourists’ visits. Others want to improve their foreign language skills or even their resumes. Some want to delve into a specific topic related to their majors, and a particular location will afford them learning opportunities they can’t get anywhere else. Finding the best cultural fit for you and your passions is also part of the study abroad process, extending your educational experience and preparing you for work and life after graduation.
Deciding to Study Abroad
Choosing to study in another country, whether it’s for the summer, a semester or a full year, is an individual decision. Here are a few factors you’ll need to weigh when researching and comparing destinations.
Things to keep in mind:-
Are you eligible to study abroad?
Is study abroad credit transferable (assuming you choose a program outside your institution or intend to transfer after being abroad)?
Do you need to get pre-approval?
Will study abroad delay your graduation?
LEARNING A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
PERSONAL MATURITY AND GROWTH
ADDITIONAL COSTS
SCHEDULES
- Will a study abroad program align with your academic calendar?
- Will participating in a study abroad program rule you out for certain jobs or internships?
- Will study abroad affect your scholarship(s)?
INDEPENDENT PROGRAMS
Choosing the Right Location
LANGUAGE SKILLS
- Do you want to improve your language skills?
- Would you feel more comfortable in a country that has English as an official language?
HOUSING OPTIONS
- Host Families:
- Campus Housing:
- Apartment:
CULTURAL CONSIDERATIONS
THE COST OF LIVING ABROAD
Food
Clothes
Transportation
Personal Care
Entertainment
Setting Realistic Expectations for Your Study Abroad Experience
INTERCULTURAL COMMUNICATION
Becoming part of a new community is hard to do. Even if you speak the language, it takes time to get to know your classmates, instructors, a new school and a new place. Be patient with yourself and use all of the resources available to help you transition from a college student from one country to a college student in another country.
FAMILY CONCERNS
Students often get homesick while participating in study abroad programs. It’s only natural to miss your friends and family, your own room or apartment and the many objects and rituals that make up your familiar day-to-day life. Understand that while initial feelings of homesickness are normal, there are always reasonable actions you can take to better adjust.
Talk to your classmates - They are likely experiencing similar feelings. Connecting with them means you can support each other as you work together to stay focused and complete the program.
Connect with a local family - Homestay arrangements can alleviate some homesickness, giving you a chance to become part of a new family in your host country.
Immerse yourself in the culture - Stay busy taking in all that your study abroad program has to offer. Get involved in study groups, go on sightseeing trips and try something new every day.
Stay focused on your study abroad goals - Why did you choose to travel in the first place? GoOverseas.com recommends reflecting on your initial goals. Making a “bucket list” of things you want to see and experiences you want to have while you are away that will help you reach those goals.
INTERACTING WITH LOCAL STUDENTS
Interacting with local students is also a great way to learn more about the local area and develop supportive relationships for additional assistance while abroad. Local students can provide excellent guidance on everything from the best restaurants to the most interesting side trips.
LIVING IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY
Embrace the differences between the culture of your host country and what you’ve experienced at home. Being open to living like the locals and to everything new to you is an important part of overcoming what’s often referred to as “culture shock.” Depending on your location, you may find that even most day-to-day tasks require adjustment, from buying groceries and ordering a meal to recycling and taking out the trash.
Adjusting to Life Back Home
- Studying abroad often matures you.
- Reflect on the experience.
- Remember that rules/laws are different.
- Reconnect with the Study Abroad Office.
- Beware the travel bug (in a good way).
Robert Cross
Robert’s Answer
I believe that gaining a different perspective on culture and your area of study has the potential to bring not only financial benefit but much personal fulfillment in your future life.
Good luck, and have fun!