Recently, I have been in the process of getting materials together to go abroad next year for the WHOLE year. It’s been a daunting task. Sometimes you think that it may be too much to handle and you get a little nervous just thinking about what could happen, but there are more positives than negatives. Here are some reasons you should consider studying abroad:
1. Experiencing A New Place:
Nothing beats going to a place you’ve never been. By studying abroad, you can decide to spend anywhere from three weeks to a year in a new place, which means you don’t have to rush during your time there. You’ll experience the culture first hand, while also finding all the secret treasures of the city (untouched by pesky tourists!).
2. Experience MORE places:
If you’re going abroad for an extended period of time, like a semester or a year, not only will you be able to explore the city you’re staying in, but also all the ones around you. If you’re staying in Europe, you can easily head off to Paris to see the Eiffel Tower and then to London to ride the double decker buses. In South America, head to the Sao Paulo, then to Buenos Aires. There are many tourist groups that go on excursions that guarantee safety and a good price.
3. Learn a Language:
While going abroad is not all fun and games, going to a new place where the people do not speak English may be scary to some collegiates. Though the first couple weeks may be difficult, you’ll be speaking the language in no time. Being able to communicate in another language is empowering, but also…
4. Add it to your Resume:
It offers a great piece to your resume. When an employer sees that you can communicate in another language, you’re already one step ahead of another candidate. In such a globally interconnected world, it’s always important to have an employee who can communicate with new business partners or with costumers.
5. Foreign Boys, Shoes, and More:
While also learning a language and experiencing a new place, you’re meeting cute foreign boys and adding new-sophisticated items to your wardrobe. All your friends will be jealous when you return, talking about your foreign love affairs and also that one unique piece they will never be able to find here.
So, why not take a leap and go abroad? At F&M, they are especially helpful in making sure that you are prepared to go. A good first step is going to “Starting Points” at the Joseph International Center where they will show you all the things you need to know about their website, as well as bring in students to talk to you about their experiences. Once you decide on some programs, a Study Abroad Advisor will send you the emails of students who have done those programs to give you some advice. You can feel confident knowing that the programs is right and also get the scoop on what happens outside of going to class.
So where do you think you’ll go?