If you’ve ever talked to a student that has studied abroad they’ve probably told you that it was “a once in a lifetime experience” or that it was “the best four months of my life.” Yes, that might sound too good to be true, but I’d say it’s pretty accurate. As a BU student who recently studied abroad in Sydney, Australia for four months I may be a little biased, but I can honestly say that it was a life changing experience where I learned a lot about the Australian culture and even more about myself. BU’s study abroad programs are among some of the best in the country – offering a variety of academic and internship programs in over 30 cities on six different continents. It’s so popular that over 150 other colleges and universities nationwide participate in BU study abroad programs. In no particular order, below are the top five Boston University study abroad programs.
1. London, England
London is without a doubt the most popular study abroad destination at BU – with over 200 students abroad here each semester (and the numbers are growing). BU’s London program offers a variety of programs catering to almost every single major at BU – in one of the most extraordinary cities in the world. They speak English – which is a plus for any students who haven’t taken a foreign language class! It’s also centrally located – meaning, it’s easy for students to travel throughout the UK and Europe. The BU housing in London is also well located in the exclusive neighborhood of South Kensington – only minutes away from museums, shopping, and London’s gorgeous parks. It is common for London abroad students to travel on the weekends to neighboring countries and cities like Italy, Spain, France, Ireland, Greece, etc.
2. Sydney, Australia
If you’re looking for an exotic English speaking location on the other side of the world, Australia is for you. Sydney is, in my opinion, the second most popular study abroad destination at BU – with just over 100 students abroad here each semester. There are three different programs including almost every major, so any student is bound to find something suitable for them. Sydney is one of the most incredible cities in the world. It’s far away on the Pacific-rim neighboring Asia, but relatable to home. The BU Sydney staff does an amazing job of making Sydney feel like home. And even though you won’t be able to travel extensively throughout Europe, you will be able to experience and travel throughout Australia and the neighboring countries like New Zealand, Fiji, and Southeast Asia. And honestly, when else can you do that?
3. Madrid, Spain
If you are able to study in a Spanish speaking country (have taken a certain number of language requirements), Madrid is definitely the place. Spain is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe; so living in Madrid for four months seems just fantastic. Classes are taught in Spanish at the Instituto Internacional or the Universidad Autonoma de Madrid. Students also live with host families – a truly unique experience. It is common for students on the Madrid program, like the London program, to travel on the weekends to neighboring countries and cities – which is a great experience if you’ve never been to Europe. You can honestly travel throughout all of Europe and the UK easily in those four months.
4. Dublin, Ireland
Dublin, which is not necessarily in the center of Europe, is still a great location to study abroad. Since it is another English speaking program, it is definitely popular among students who don’t take foreign language classes. Dublin isn’t an overwhelmingly big city – a smaller version of Boston. Dublin is also located next door to England – a typical travel spot for all students studying abroad in Europe or the UK. According to past Dublin abroad students, the Irish people and culture are fascinating and very welcoming to American students – making them feel at home during their four-month stay over the pond. Also, Dublin is one of the closest European cities to home – only a six-hour flight from Boston.
5. Paris, France
If you are able to study in a French speaking country, why would you not choose Paris? Paris is, in my opinion, one of the most interesting cities in not only France but in all of Europe – full of culture, sights, and history, you’ll always find something to do. The culture and way of life in Paris also differs so much from American culture – making for a completely new and life-altering experience for an American student. Like the Madrid program, students live with host families. Paris is centrally located in Europe, so it is easy for students to travel all throughout Europe and the UK during breaks and weekends.