Study Abroad
If you’re pursuing a Bachelor of Art’s degree, generally you’ll be required to complete four years of a foreign language. If you’re going for a business, computer science degree, pre-med, etc., learning a foreign language may not be mandatory but it will take you far in your future career. For example, in business you’ll most likely find yourself traveling globally and you’ll want to be familiar with various cultures and languages. As a doctor you may want to spend time in other cultures to fill a shortage of quality health care. When you immerse yourself in another culture, you’ll be exposed to the language daily, learn it quickly and become accustomed to the norms and ways of the culture… a valuable experience you won’t find in the classroom.
Have you always wanted to travel? Studying abroad gives you the opportunity to travel and many programs are structured to allow for planned trips in nearby cities and countries.
Studying abroad takes you out of your safe zone (daily college life), you’ll encounter situations and people that you won’t find on you’re college campus. This will be an opportunity to get in touch with your self. How do you react to new situations, do you run, do you get envious, angry, push yourself too hard, blame others, etc. You’ll learn a great deal about yourself and how to adapt to new situations will confidence.
Studying abroad expands your mind, it opens you mind. Most of us are some what sheltered in America. Returning from your travels you’ll have a greater perspective of the world and a greater appreciation of what you have. You’ll be exposed to valuable global knowledge and cultural understanding that can translate into handling everyday situations back in the U.S. with more ease and confidence.
Your experience studying, negotiating and living in another country will give you an edge on other applicants when applying for jobs after college. You may also be able to take courses not offered at your college in the U.S., again giving you that extra edge.
Is your junior approaching, otherwise known as academic burnout? This is a perfect time to get out of your routine, put yourself in a new challenging, stimulating and motivating environment… revitalizing your mind, body and spirit!
Absorb what you can and leave the rest behind. Studying abroad will become one of your most memorable college experiences. Have fun, not too much, and think forward, relax, spend this time exploring and continuing to focus on your long-term goals.