Deciding where to have your study abroad experience can be a very complicated decision. That’s why I want to share with you some factors you should consider when choosing the best destination.
1. Language
This could be the main reason to choose your study abroad destination. There’s no better way to learn a language than being surrounded by it. Study abroad is the perfect time to master that second language, which you might have started studying in high school but still need to practice. Or, it can also be the perfect excuse to learn a totally new language.
Make sure to investigate about all the countries that speak that language and their regions. For example, Spain is an obvious destination if you want to practice your Spanish, but in many regions of the country, other languages are important and spoken daily, which could confuse you and be counter-productive if you only know some basic Spanish.
2. Personal Connection
Another good reason to choose one place over another is your personal connection to it. This is your chance to visit that special place in the world that you have always wanted to experience. With study abroad you will develop a lifetime connection to it.
3. Expenses
Of course, this is a big concern when you are thinking about studying abroad. Study abroad could cost you a lot of money, and you should consider whether it’s worth it. Some destinations are more popular than others, and that makes them more expensive. Check other options that might save you some money and yet still give you an equally fulfilling experience. Anywhere you go, you will have wonderful time, so don’t settle for the clichés.
If you know for sure that you would like to visit a particular country, for example France, which can be on the expensive side, don’t go to Paris. There are other good universities in other parts of the country that are cheaper but will give you just as good an experience and the same language exposure. You can easily travel around France (for example) once you are there, but choosing a less expensive home can save you a lot of money.
4. Travel outside your destination
Following on the previous point, choose your destination wisely if your plan is to travel around. Of course, you will want to visit nearby cities and countries if you went all the way to the other side of the world. But make sure you do it right. A good connection to an international airport, a country with a great railroad system, or one that is cheap and will help you to be able to afford all your travel expenses are important things to consider.
5. Narrative
This is an important point in your study abroad decision. Study abroad can be a great selling point that helps you stand apart from the crowd on the job market or many other opportunities, but it is important that you have a narrative that accompanies your decision. Make sure that when you pick a place, you can then explain why that decision was a step in the right direction for you. It can be either a personal reason, a professional one, or simply because you knew that that place would be special for you. But think about it before you make a decision.
6. University Rankings
This may not matter a lot for most of you, but if you are between two possible destinations, find out which university has a better ranking. Sometimes this could help you see which option will benefit you more. Make sure you check the degree or classes that you will be taking, because some universities may not have a great overall ranking, but they may specialize in your area of interest.
These are some factors that you could take into consideration while deciding where the best place for your study abroad experience should be. Make sure to research and consider all your options before you make the final decision. And remember that wherever you go, this will be an unforgettable experience!