The idea of packing up a suitcase and living in another country sounds like a dream or something out of a movie. Between classes, jobs, and life it seems like we never truly get a chance to be spontaneous and travel or go to that country we’ve always dreamed about visiting. Believe it or not, that dream destination may not be a dream after all. Many colleges and universities have so many programs and opportunities that could allow you to travel to new places and even live there for a semester or longer! I had the awesome experience of studying in Ireland for a semester and it was honestly one of the best decision I ever made. It may seem scary, or not in your price range with all the other expenses of college, but I’m going share some of my own tips and advice to ensure your best study abroad experience!
Tip #1: Plan a year in advance
I know this may sound like a long time, but trust me you will need the year to plan! Between filling out the application, finding a program, and working out your schedule, you will need as much time as possible to figure out your game plan for when you study abroad. Also, planning it a year out will allow you to work and save up some money because let’s face it traveling can be expensive! Also, waiting a year will let you take your time when planning and allow you to choose the right program, housing, and class schedule rather than if you rushed at the last minute. If you’re going to study abroad make sure you do everything you want to do and don’t be hindered by a time frame!
Tip #2: Research
So let’s say there’s a country you’re dying to go to, make sure you research the colleges in that country because they might have a program that could be cheaper or better than what your school might be offering. In my case, my university didn’t have a program for my major in the country I wanted to go to. So after a month of research, I discovered a university that had their own study abroad program and classes that suited my needs in the country of my choosing. Just make sure if you are picking a program outside of your school, that you check with your home international office that they will transfer your class credits. Also make sure you research the country’s culture, customs, and even the language because it will help you better understand the environment you will living in and what the country will be like when you go.
Tip #3: Budget, Budget, Budget!
Now the main thing I got told whenever I mentioned to someone I was studying abroad was that it was too expensive for them to do it. Even though studying abroad can be pretty pricey, there are many scholarships, financial aid, and much more that can make it seem more doable for anyone’s budget! My best advice is to research scholarships and even ask your home university what they have available to help you pay for your time abroad. Also for anyone who has Florida prepaid, it does transfer over to some international universities you just have to call and ask! I also worked throughout the summer to set aside some money to spend while abroad and I’m so glad I did! Make sure you figure out a budget for when you are abroad and how much you can send on food, travel, and other stuff.
Tip #4: Decide how Long is too Long
My second to last tip is to make sure you pick the time frame that works for you. Study Abroad programs range from a couple weeks to a year! You just need to figure out what works for your budget, and your major. It’s also important to note that if you don’t want to commit to a semester but still want to study abroad you totally can! There are tons of summer semesters abroad that range from a couple weeks to two months. This is the perfect time frame if you want to do studying abroad, but maybe don’t have the budget for a full semester or year. Usually summer semesters are a bit cheaper and the class load is less! I decided to stay for a semester while in Ireland, but you may want to stay for shorter or longer!
Tip #5: Don’t be Scared
Another comment I get is that studying abroad seems too scary. Even though leaving the comfort of your school or home can seem daunting, discovering new places is so much fun! Even though I was super excited to begin my studying abroad experience, I will admit that the closer it came, the more nervous and scared I got. And who wouldn’t be? I was going to a new country where I knew no one! However, all those fears and negative thoughts I had vanished within the first week of being at my study abroad university. As soon as I got here, my roommates were very welcoming and some were also international students! I made friends right away and soon all the fears I had melted away, and were replaced by feelings excitement for the experiences I was going to have. The best advice I can give is to face your fears head on and just do it! Trust me you will not regret it, and let’s face it, you’ll have the best stories to tell to your friend group back home!
Overall, studying abroad is a great way to see the world and immerse yourself in another culture. Whether you want to travel to Australia or Spain there is a program out there waiting for you! If I had advice for any incoming freshman it would be to take the plunge and study abroad. I have met wonderful people from all over the world and had amazing experiences! Finally, this quote by Augustine of Hippo says it all, “The world is a book and those who do not travel only read one page.”