Study Aboard is all around. If you’re a freshman, you’ve probably been ambushed with summer programs. Sophomores, like me, are currently debating where to go. Juniors either are planning on going abroad or know someone abroad. Seniors are reconnecting with their friends now that everyone’s back home in Chestnut Hill. Now, considering I am mid-freak-out and mid-decision, here are some things to help demystify study abroad.
Reasons to Go Abroad
It’s a chance to experience a new country and culture and gain a new perspective. You can meet students from that country and from around the world. It’s an excuse to travel to a new place and from that place you gain a new starting point to travel in and out of the country. Of course, it does mean you give up life at BC for a semester or a year but everyone says it’s more than worth it.
Most Important Things to Do
- STUDY ABROAD FAIR! Normally held in September, they have so many programs and people to talk to and see.
- Meet with an Advising Assistant. They basically explain the Office of International Programs Website to you and answer any questions you might have.
- Google. A lot. I looked up the BC programs and external programs through the OIP website and then googled them. I looked at the school website, reviews, pictures, city, country, everything.
- Meet with an International Study Advisor. These people are specialists in specific areas, so they normally know their stuff. The woman who specializes in the programs in Australia was super helpful in explaining the difference between cities, universities, dorms, and even gave me a realistic opinion on traveling throughout Australia.
- Check out the OIP Website! It has all the BC programs and approved external programs as well as a description for each one. Also listed are the specific steps to follow, scholarships, safety tips, and a handy little section for your parents.
Sources:
http://kellygrainger.files.wordpress.com/2010/02/machu-picchu-peru.jpg
http://www.royalcaribbean.com/findacruise/destinations/home.do?dest=AUSTL
http://write-shoot-cut.com/2013/01/25/advert-partypoker-fr/
http://nature.desktopnexus.com/get/1166080/?t=kean2llalhgjlggp1mcfjqkqf7527a6bebb0f06