What does studying abroad offer that studying on campus doesn't?
pros/cons?
any important information you know on this topic in general?
#studyabroad #overseas #study
3 answers
Neha’s Answer
Great question Darin!
In general, studying abroad can be very rewarding in many ways, including but not limited to: broadening your worldview, personal growth, gaining new life skills and knowledge of other cultures, and potentially advancing your career. Personally, I found my opportunity to live and do research in Thailand for my degree one of the best experiences of my life. I connected with people that are now lifelong friends. I challenged myself by living and studying in a completely different culture - I learned more about myself as I learned more about Thai culture and was able to practice speaking Thai. It was an amazing experience and I wouldn't trade it for anything else.
This article lists some additional benefits of studying abroad that you may find useful: https://www.northeastern.edu/graduate/blog/study-abroad-benefits/
You also asked about the cons of studying abroad and perhaps the most difficult aspects of studying abroad may include culture shock related to being in a foreign country, having to figure things out on your own and missing friends/ family. This article will provide some additional insights: https://jlvcollegecounseling.com/2017/07/25/studying-abroad-the-pros-and-cons-of-international-student-exchange/
Darin, I hope you find my feedback useful.
Neha recommends the following next steps:
Allison’s Answer
Great question!
Studying abroad is an extremely rewarding experience that broadens your worldviews, allows you to see new parts of the world, gives you the opportunity to build new connections, among so much more!
I studied abroad for two and a half weeks with my University as part of a European Business Travel Seminar. I was able to see five countries (Germany, France, Switzerland, Netherlands, and Luxembourg) while on the trip and loved every second of it! I had never traveled outside of the country prior and did not know anyone going on the trip prior to signing up. But I wanted to push myself out of my comfort zone and I am so happy I did! I made lifelong friends, saw incredible sights, and toured so many museums and businesses.
I would highly recommend studying abroad at some point during your college career, even if it is not a full semester! It truly is a life-changing experience!
Good luck!
Alli Raddant
Justina’s Answer
Pros of study abroad:
-Learn about other cultures
-Try new foods
-Learn a different language and practice it while you are studying abroad with native speakers
-Learn to be independent, take care and travel on your own
-Meet new people and build friendships
-Exploring an unfamiliar place
-When you push yourself out the comfort zone, the next time you do it again it will be easier than the last time
Cons of study abroad:
-You may get homesick (technology helps with that so you can call your loved ones often)
-Can be financially straining (you can plan for this, save up money with on-campus jobs during the school year or summer jobs/internships, apply to scholarships that your school offer for study abroad or external scholarships - talk to your school's study abroad counselor for help)
-It may be difficult to communicate with others if the native language is not a language you are familiar with (start learning before you head to the country or use body language - its universal (a smile goes a long way))