BENEFITS OF STUDYING ABROAD

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Many people dream of studying abroad, but circumstances—they can’t leave their family, or they can’t get a scholarship to shoulder the admittedly large expenses of living alone in another country—may force them to get their degree at a local college.

But that doesn’t mean that they have to completely sacrifice their dreams of studying abroad. They have one option: to spend one or two semesters as an exchange student.

Choosing a university

Like any other class you want to take in college, you have to make sure that your semester abroad contributes to your overall academic goals. Whatever your major, or your field of interest, ask yourself which country and what program will best suit your purposes. You can’t randomly point to a map and say, “Oh, well, I’ve always wanted to know what it felt like to be in Paris.”

For example, if you’re taking a course in architecture, it would make sense to go to a country known for its fine tradition in that art. Or if you’re an economics major, you can go to an emerging country with the specific purpose of seeing the effects of certain government policies on entrepreneurial ventures or quality of life.

Choosing courses

Don’t overwhelm yourself with too many unrelated courses. If you have an academic goal, take preparatory courses so that you can go abroad with the basics in place—for example, take an elective in Renaissance architecture before going to Italy. You should also take a few units in the predominant language or start listening to tapes or taking online courses.

Gathering Resources

Ask your guidance counselor or student affairs office about the school’s foreign study programs. You can also ask about financial aid, or grants. Do be aware of the costs of living abroad, including housing and daily expenses. You can also contact the schools you want to apply to for any information on working on campus to offset certain costs.

There are so many different kinds of foreign study programs. You’ll find that some focus on language learning, while others are based on fields or interests like international relations, history, the arts, or the environment.

Choosing a Program

The first step is to go on the Internet or your school’s student affairs office to find the different programs available. Narrow down the list to those that are aligned with your own academic goals and personal interests.

The second step is to talk to your mentor or department adviser to see which courses can be aligned with your academic program, and more importantly, will be credited towards your degree. It’s absolutely crucial that the credits you earn will be recognized by your school. It’s fun to study abroad and you’ll certainly learn a lot while you’re there, but don’t let it interfere with your studies. If it’s not going to be credited then at least be aware of the consequences—the worst thing that can happen is for you to be shocked when you go home, and find out when it’s too late to back out!

Types of Programs

Cultural immersion programs are one of the most popular forms of foreign study program. This normally includes language learning, plus several courses on the history and culture of the country. It normally includes field trips to local spots plus hands-on activities.

You can also sign up for specific courses, like one on foreign legal culture. Here you’ll find out more about a country’s legal system, with courses on the constitution, how it affects the court system and the practices of the local attorneys, etc. This is ideal for anyone who is thinking of specializing in a career that will be focused on a particular region or country.

Inter disciplinary programs are also very popular. You visit a country and look at its political structure, economic standing, history, culture, and religious practices.

Art programs are quite excellent as well. Students will look at a country’s art work and architecture, as well as local crafts and industries, and review it in the context of its history.