Is it best to study abroad or stay where you are when living out your college experience?
I really wan't to travel the world and see everything i can while it is an option for me. I feel like if i let the opportunity pass then my dream will never be achieved. #travel
#study-abroad
6 answers
Mark’s Answer
Hi Davonte,
An option that my son explored when deciding on a college, was to look at the programs they had in place that could help him with his desire to attend college in America but with study abroad opportunities within the school. We hosted a college exchange student from the Netherlands last fall and in turn, my son is eligible to visit the Netherlands this summer. Even better is that his school received a grant and he will be able to go with minimal cost to the family. Good luck to you!
Mark recommends the following next steps:
Victor’s Answer
Ann’s Answer
As someone who studied abroad multiple times in high school and college I would highly recommend it. Not only will you have exposure to a different culture and potentially language but you will have challenges and experiences that you would not have had other wise.
When far away from home- you learn a lot about yourself and the people in the program with you. You experience homesickness and adventures with these people and learn how to work as a team to discover the local customs quickly and overcome culture shock. I find that the people I met while studying abroad in college became my best friends and 20+ years later still are. While I say the ex-pat community is a great aspect of studying abroad, another is meeting people from the country and staying in touch- I visit them still when I'm in their country and vice versa and have long lasting friendships there as well.
Ashton’s Answer
Whitney’s Answer
I think it is great that you are considering studying abroad. Just a little over a year ago, I decided to study in England for my Master's degree. I believe it was one of the best decisions I ever made. During this time, I was able to travel and see so much of the world I would not have seen otherwise. Taking the chance to travel when you are young, while also furthering your education is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
In undergrad, Study Abroad programs at many universities have various durations to offer, so you can choose the one that is right for you. You will be traveling with other students as well, which is another positive aspect of the program. Also, this will look good on a resume for any future plans you may have.
If you have any other questions about my experience, please feel free to ask.
Lauren’s Answer
Hi Davonte!
I had very similar aspirations when I was in school! While I was an undergrad, I had the opportunity to study abroad in Italy through a 6-week program. I always say it was truly one of the best experiences of my life. If traveling is a passion of yours, as it was mine, and you have the chance & resources to take advantage of a study abroad opportunity, I whole-heartedly recommend you take it. You'll not only be able to further your educational experience, but enrich your personal experiences; which is something that helps prepare you and comes across well when you're interviewing and being considered for a position where you'll be in a new experience outside of school.
If you have any other questions about my experience studying abroad or anything related, please don't hesitate to ask!