The world has become a highly interconnected place, and thanks to the Internet, we can have a wide range of experiences without ever leaving home. But there is still a lot of value in learning about the world through firsthand experience, which is why it's important to get out from behind those screens and travel to new places from time to time. If you're pursing a college degree and are offered the opportunity to study abroad, it's the perfect chance to expand your education in a whole new way and make memories to last a lifetime.
Different Ways to Study Abroad
If you're hoping to study abroad, there are a few different ways that you can make it happen.
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Be an Exchange Student: In a traditional study-abroad program, students can spend a semester or a year studying at a school in a different country. When you return, the credits you earned abroad count toward your degree program at home.
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Take a Study Trip: Some colleges periodically offer travel opportunities led by professors, typically for two or three weeks at a time.
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Go to Summer School: If your school doesn't have an exchange program, you can always opt to enroll in a summer program at a foreign college.
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Enroll in a Foreign College: You could also apply to colleges in other countries and earn your entire degree abroad. Students from other countries come to America to study all the time, but this isn't the only country with good colleges; there's a world of educational possibilities out there.
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Get an Internship: If you're studying business, political science, or another subject that could lead to a career abroad, you could look for internships in other countries. You'll be able to experience a new country and culture while also gaining work experience.
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Volunteer: Some nonprofits offer volunteer opportunities in other countries, often focusing on issues related to poverty or social justice.
Basics You Need to Know
When you're considering studying abroad, you'll need to figure out the answers to a few important questions before you sign up for a program or buy plane tickets.
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How does the program you're looking at fit with your educational goals? If you're working on a college degree, you'll want to know if your experience abroad will earn you credits that will count toward your degree requirements. If you're looking at an internship program, think about whether the opportunity makes sense with your career goals.
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How will you pay for the experience? Going to school isn't cheap, and if you'll be studying abroad, you'll have to pay for it just like you would if you were studying at home. Depending on the program, you also may need to pay for travel expenses, accommodations, and the costs of living while you're there, like food and bus fare. And of course, if you don't have a passport, you'll have to pay to get one. Scholarships or grants may cover some of your costs, so make sure to research your financial options before you sign up to study abroad.
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How will you adapt to a new culture? If you're planning to go somewhere where English isn't spoken, you'll need to be comfortable speaking the native language. You'll also need to learn different cultural norms and be prepared for some culture shocks along the way.
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Preparation Checklist
When you're planning to study abroad, make sure to take care of these tasks:
- Choose a program that suits your needs.
- Research the cost of the program and your financial aid options.
- Sign up for the program.
- Make your financial arrangements and pay for the program.
- Apply for a passport, if you don't already have one.
- Start brushing up on the language of your destination and reading about the country's cultural norms.
- Research and book your flights and accommodations, if they're not included in the program you signed up for.
- Reach out to your bank to figure out your options for accessing your money while you're abroad.
- Research transportation options in your destination to figure out how you'll get around. If you need to buy a transit pass ahead of time, do so now.
- Check with your phone carrier to figure out how you can call home. You may need to add international coverage or buy a SIM card when you get to your host country.
- See your doctor for a checkup and get any required vaccinations. While you're there, make a plan for how you'll keep taking any required medications while you're away.
- Make a copy of your passport and a copy of your itinerary, and leave them with someone you trust at home.
- Pack for your trip, making sure to include clothing that's appropriate for the climate and the culture. Don't forget a power adapter so you can plug in your electronic devices.
What to Expect While Traveling Abroad
If you've done your research, you should have a good idea of what your life will be like while you study abroad, but there are still bound to be some culture shocks. You may need to adjust to new foods, a new daily routine, and a faster or slower pace of life. You'll also need to adapt to the expectations of your study program and satisfy its requirements. At first, you're likely to feel a bit overwhelmed, and homesickness is natural. But in time, most students settle into a new rhythm and enjoy their travel experience. The most important thing is to remember to be flexible and open-minded: Embrace opportunities to try new things, and accept your failures as chances to learn and grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need to Know a Foreign Language to Study Abroad?
Not necessarily. There are plenty of English-speaking countries you could travel to, and some programs will offer instruction in English even in a non-English-speaking country. But if you're going to a country where English isn't the primary language, you should at least make an effort to learn some of the local language.
How Can I Pay for a Study-Abroad Program?
Check into your financial aid options. You may be able to use scholarships, student loans, or grants to help cover the costs of your trip.
Is it Safe to Study Abroad?
It's generally safe to study abroad, but your safety will depend on your destination and your own behavior. Learn about how safe the country is, research local laws and customs, and use common sense to keep yourself safe.
What Will I Do if I Have an Emergency?
Make sure that you know how to contact local emergency services, and keep a copy of the contact information for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
