The idea of studying abroad can be very exciting, but also a bit nerve-racking. There are a few steps to consider before you even need to take the long walk over to the International Programs Office (IPO) in Hills South.
1. Decide how long you want to study abroad for.
There are many opportunities to study abroad while at UMass Amherst. It’s important to think about what you’ll be comfortable with whether it’s a short trip over a vacation or a whole semester. The university offers trips through out the year.
2. Check your eligibility.
The IPO office states that a student must have completed their freshman year, a full semester at UMass Amherst, and have a GPA above a 2.5 to be eligible to go abroad. Also it’s important to tie up any loose ends that have to do with disciplinary, judicial, or academic actions.
3. Think about where you’d want to go.
The world is your oyster – think about it that way. Studying abroad no matter where you go is an amazing opportunity to not only see beautiful places, but to also see a different culture and experience a different way of thinking outside of the United States. On the IPO home, there are a list of information sessions that may be worth attending if you’re still trying to decide where in the world you’d like to go.
4. Think realistically about finances.
Traveling abroad is expensive, but luckily everyone is willing to help if you need it. You can talk to someone at the study abroad office or financial aid along with applying to many different scholarships. Talk to whoever is helping you with your current finances and see if it’s something you can make happen.
5. Relax!
Studying abroad should not be stressful, it should be the time in your life that you wish you could do all over again. Making sure credits transfer, finances stay on track, and monitoring stress should all be things that you worry about after you choose where you want to go and for how long.
So good luck figuring it out and in case you need any help, contact any of the advisors in the International Programs Office who are always willing to help.