Whether you submitted your application or you’re toying with the idea of spending some time abroad in the coming year, living in a different country for months is a life changing decision. There is an overwhelming amount of decisions to consider during this process including: where to go, when to go, how long to go, and more. But before answering those questions, how do you know if studying abroad is right for you?
- Is it a requirement for your studies?
If you are required to spend time abroad for your major, minor or college, then it should be a no brainer! For example, international business students at Marquette have to spend a summer or a semester abroad. Often times, programs like these focus education on global citizenship and studying abroad is the perfect way to apply those skills in a real-world setting.
- Do you speak another language?
If not, no biggie! If you do, this could be very beneficial for living and traveling abroad to those corresponding countries. In general, many individuals around the world speak english, but studying abroad is a great way to improve existing language skills or even learn a new language!
- Do you have room in your schedule?
Often times universities do a great job helping students find corresponding courses abroad that satisfy credits at their homeschool. Before applying or committing to a school, make sure that you have the right amount and variety of courses available at this university.
- Do you have commitments at your home university?
Besides ensuring class options, studying abroad could not be an option for you based on extracurricular commitments. Many sports teams do not allow athletes to study abroad during the school year as it interferes with their season, but you may be able to go during the summer. If you are in an organization that allows you to take some time off, make sure to touch base with those individuals before and after returning to stay in the loop.
- Do you have the financial resources?
There are plenty of scholarships and grants available to students studying abroad, but financial resources are an important factor to consider when deciding whether or not studying abroad is for you. One of the major perks of living in a different country is the opportunity to travel to neighboring countries, but it comes with a price tag. Also, you may be giving up a period of time working at your on campus job when going abroad and it is important to consider the money you won’t be making during that time.
All in all, studying abroad is an amazing experience, but it’s not for everyone, and that’s okay! If you’re thinking about applying or making an official commitment, make sure to ask yourself the previous questions. If reading this only convinced you to study abroad more, then get packing your bags and enjoy your time wherever you end up!