How To Get the Most Out of Studying Abroad
When I first started applying to colleges I knew immediately that I wanted to spend as much time overseas as possible. I was very aware that this was the easiest way to travel for free if only I could find scholarships or grants to cover the expenses. I actually wanted to just get my degree overseas and spend four to five years in a foreign country learning and growing. Alas, as an only child I decided to make a deal with my parents that if I went to school in the United States, I could study abroad at least twice. So that's exactly what I did. I spend my first study abroad in the UK, in a small town called Sunderland. After further deliberation, I decided to spend my second semester overseas volunteering and teaching in Malawi, but that's a story for another day. Studying abroad made a huge difference in how I view the world and myself. It was my first chance at true independence at only 19 years old, jump-starting my love for solo travel. Taking these first steps can be terrifying and overwhelming which is why I was determined to write this article.Once you have the steps planned out it's a very straightforward process. If you're nervous, don't be! You've already applied to college once and we're basically just going to repeat that process. Studying abroad is an amazing opportunity to learn about another culture and to gain new experiences. If you're still on the fence about studying abroad, there are a few things you'll need to consider first.
Consider the benefits of studying abroad
There are many benefits to studying abroad, and these benefits can be different for each person. Here are some of the most common benefits:
Learning about another culture: When you study abroad, you have the opportunity to learn about another culture first-hand. This can be an eye-opening experience, and it can help you to better understand the world around you.
Gaining new experiences: When you're living in a foreign country, you'll have the chance to participate in new activities and explore new places. This is a great way to gain new experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.
Improving your language skills: If you're studying in a country that speaks a foreign language, you'll have the opportunity to improve your language skills. This can be a challenging but rewarding experience, and it can help you to become more fluent in the language.
Making new friends: When you're living in a foreign country, you'll likely meet many new people from all over the world. This can be a great opportunity to make new friends and learn about their cultures.
Boosting your resume: Studying abroad can be a great way to boost your resume and stand out from other job applicants. It shows that you're willing to take risks and that you're able to adapt to new environments.
Choosing the right program for you
When choosing a study abroad program, it's important to find one that fits your interests and budget. Many different types of programs are available, so you should choose one that fits your needs. Consider the type of courses you would like to take, the country you would like to visit, and how long you would like to be abroad.
There are many great programs to choose from, so find one that's right for you. Talk to your family and friends about their experiences with different programs, or do some research online to find the best option for you. Once you've found a program that looks good, apply as soon as possible!
How to Prepare for Your Study Abroad
There are many things that you can do to prepare for a semester or year of studying abroad. Here are a few of the most important ones:
Research the different programs that are available. There are many different programs available, so you need to find one that fits your needs and interests. Do some online research or talk to your family and friends to get recommendations.
Consider your budget. Studying abroad can be expensive, so you need to make sure that you have enough money saved up. Make a budget and try to save as much money as possible so that you can afford to study abroad.
Learn about the culture of the country where you will be studying. When you know about the culture, it will be easier for you to adapt when you arrive there. Read about the history, the customs, and the food of the country so that you can be prepared for what to expect.
Get familiar with the language of the country where you will be studying. If the country speaks a foreign language, you need to learn as much as you can before you go. This will make it easier for you to communicate with locals and get by in daily life.
Pack light! When you're packing for a semester or year of studying abroad, it's important to pack light. You'll likely be doing a lot of traveling, so you don't want to bring too many heavy bags with you. Your style will also change while abroad so keep some bag space for new purchases. Make a list of the essentials that you'll need, and try to pack only those items.
Living Abroad
When you're living in a foreign country, it's important to make the most of your time there. Here are a few tips for doing just that:
Get to know the culture. When you understand the culture, it will be easier for you to adapt to life in the country. Read about the history, the customs, and the food of the country so that you can get a better understanding of what to expect. Learn about the recent challenges so that you can be prepared for any protests or unrest.
Join an online community. There are tons of expat community groups on Facebook, Discord and GroupMe. This will allow you to build a community before arriving. Your host university may be able to connect you with student organizations as well.
Learn common phrases. If the country speaks a foreign language, it's important to learn as much as you can before you go. This will make it easier for you to communicate with locals and get by in daily life.Even if it’s a different dialect of your first language, research the small differences. For instance, American and British English have some words that don’t overlap.
Make friends with locals and other students studying abroad. When you have friends from the country where you're living, it will be easier for you to adapt and make the most of your time there. You can also learn a lot from them about the culture and the way of life in their country.
Travel as much as possible. When you're living in a foreign country, one of the best things you can do is travel as much as possible. See as many places as you can, both near and far. This is a great way to experience all that the country, and it’s neighbors, have to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to study abroad?
The cost of studying abroad varies depending on the program and the country. However, it can be expensive, so you need to make sure that you have enough money saved up. Make a budget and try to save as much money as possible so that you can afford to study abroad. There are scholarships available and your current scholarship may be transferable.
What is the application process like?
There is a lot of paperwork involved in applying to study abroad programs. You will need to fill out applications, provide transcripts and other documents, and possibly even take an entrance exam. The process can be time-consuming, so make sure to start early. Contact your study abroad office to learn more about their process. If they have partner schools, it could be an easier process.
What are the eligibility requirements?
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the program and the country. However, most programs require that you have a certain GPA and be in good academic standing. Some programs may also require that you have completed certain coursework or have a specific major. TOEFL is a language test that is used if your primary language is different than the offered courses.
Can I study abroad if I'm a junior or senior in college?
Yes, you can study abroad at any time during your undergraduate and graduate career. However, it's important to note that some programs may only be open to students who are juniors or seniors. Planning early is essential to lower the risk of delaying graduation.
What type of coursework can I do while studying abroad?
You can take a variety of courses while studying abroad. Most programs offer courses in the humanities and social sciences, but you can also find programs that offer courses in business, engineering, and other disciplines. There are online course catalogs that you can peruse.
Will I be able to get a job while studying abroad?
It depends on the country where you're studying. Some countries may allow you to work while you're studying, but others may not. You should check with the embassy or consulate of the country where you're planning to study to see if there are any restrictions on employment. Your visa will stipulate whether work or even volunteering is allowed.
Can I still graduate on time if I study abroad?
Yes, you can graduate on time if you study abroad. However, it's important to plan ahead and make sure that you take courses that will count towards your degree. You should also check with your advisor to see how studying abroad will affect your graduation date.
What are the risks of studying abroad?
There are a few risks associated with studying abroad. First, you may not be able to adjust to the new culture and way of life. Secondly, you may have difficulty communicating with locals if you don't know the language. Finally, there is always the risk of getting sick or injured while you're in a foreign country. However, these risks can be minimized by being prepared and doing your research.
I'm worried about being homesick while I'm studying abroad. What can I do?
If you're having trouble adjusting to life in a foreign country, try to reach out to other students who are studying abroad. They may be experiencing similar challenges and can offer support and advice. If you're homesick, try to stay in touch with your family and friends back home or plan visits. You can also keep a journal to document your experiences and memories. Your host school may offer counseling or therapy upon request.
