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Top 3 Questions Answered: A U.S. College Student's Guide to Studying Abroad

Rhondine Petrof • April 19, 2023

Introduction

Studying abroad is a great way to learn about other cultures, gain valuable life experience, and improve your employability skills.


However, it can also be challenging! When you're preparing for your study abroad program or considering studying abroad in the future, here are some questions to ask yourself:


  • Why do I want to study abroad?
  • What are my goals for this experience?
  • How will this help me achieve my long-term goals (e.g., personal development, career advancement)?

Question 1: What Are the Benefits of Studying Abroad?

There are many reasons why U.S. college students should consider studying abroad. 


First, it's an opportunity to gain an international perspective and develop intercultural competence. 


You'll learn about other cultures, their values, beliefs, and norms as well as how they differ from your own. 


This can help you become more open-minded and flexible in your thinking, which will serve you well throughout life.


Second, studying abroad enhances your resume by giving it more depth (and length). 


The fact that you studied in another country shows employers that you're capable of adapting to new environments; this makes them more likely to hire you over someone who hasn't had similar experiences outside their comfort zone. 


Finally--and perhaps most importantly--studying abroad is FUN!

Question 2: What Are the Challenges of Studying Abroad?

The second most common question is about the challenges of studying abroad. The answer to this question depends on your own personal experience, but here are some common challenges:


  • Financial costs: The cost of studying abroad can vary depending on the program and duration, but it's important to consider how much you'll be spending on tuition and housing while abroad before making your decision.


  • Language barriers: If you're going to be living in another country, it's likely that English won't be spoken as widely as it is at home or even within your university campus (if there is one). This means that if you want to communicate with members of the host community or other students who speak different languages than yours, then learning their language will help make things easier for everyone involved!



  • Culture shock: When studying abroad we often come across many new experiences like new foods and customs which may seem strange at first glance but end up being quite enjoyable once we get used to them!


Question 3: How Can I Prepare for Studying Abroad?

You've decided to study abroad, and now it's time to get down to business. But before you pack up your bags and board that plane, there are a few things you should consider first.


First off: Researching the country or city where you'll be studying will help ensure that it's an environment conducive to learning. 


You should also learn as much about the language spoken there as possible--it'll make life easier when communicating with people from the host community once there as well as help build confidence in yourself while abroad! 


Find out about its culture, climate, and cost of living so that you are prepared for what's ahead when it comes time for your trip.


Additionally, if applicable to your program (and depending on how long it lasts), make sure all necessary documents are in order so that everything runs smoothly without any delays or issues at customs checkpoints around airports/ports, etc...

U.S. College Students Studying Abroad Statistics

According to the latest Open Doors report, the number of U.S. students who study abroad has increased by more than 50% in the last decade, from about 220,000 in 2006-07 to almost 350,000 in 2016-17.


The most popular destinations for U.S. students are:

  • Spain (14%),
  • Italy (11%),
  • France (8%),
  • and China (7%).


For more information, please visit Open Doors /U.S. Study Abroad for Academic Trends.

Conclusion

Now that you know what to expect, it's time to take the leap. Studying abroad will allow you to explore the world while getting an education at the same time!

You'll be able to see what life is like in another country, while also learning more about yourself. You'll make new friends and learn more than you ever thought possible.


Studying abroad is the perfect opportunity to learn about other cultures and make a lasting impact on your host community. If this sounds appealing, then keep reading!


In our next article, we'll look at the growing trend of U.S. college students studying abroad in Belize and how Toucan Education Experiential Programs are helping that happen more often than ever before!



To learn more about study abroad opportunities in Belize with Toucan Education Programs, visit our website or email us at info@studyinbelize.com.

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