Adventures Abroad

Emma Ross
Kappa Kappa Gamma

When the idea of being home for an entire month doesn’t sound too appealing and missing out on a whole semester at Mizzou isn’t imaginable, many students take the opportunity to study abroad during winter break.  

Offering more than 400 programs in 60 different countries, Mizzou study abroad programs allow students to travel, study and experience nearly any corner of the world. Along with having options to travel to many parts of globe, you can go pretty much any time you want. Sure to fit any schedule, study abroad programs are offered during an intersession, a summer, a semester or an academic year. Studying abroad comes highly recommended from Mizzou junior Stephanie Johnson, who studied in Spain, saying, “The best part about studying abroad was widening my horizons, and perhaps finding out it's a small world after all. I have made friends from all around the world including Canada, France, Russia, Scotland and Austria.” Studying abroad lends an opportunity to live a life outside the usual.

When considering studying abroad, it is important to plan ahead as to ensure you will gain academic credit as well as stay on track with graduation. All the tedious planning is well worth the experience gained from studying abroad; as Stephanie said, “Studying abroad helped me to become more self-sufficient and independent, improve my communication skills and problem-solving skills, gain a better understanding of cross-cultural differences, widen my view of the world, and even help me to network within my industry.” Not only can you submerse yourself in a new culture while studying abroad but also see new places as well as gain valuable worldly experience.

On living the life in Spain, Stephanie added, “I think the lifestyle and schedule is something anyone in their 20s must experience! Imagine the bars open at 4 a.m. and don't close till 9 a.m.!” There is bound to be something for everyone abroad, no matter where you want to go.

So whether you want to sky dive in Australia, try the world’s best pizza in Italy or visit the bars of Spain, your options are out there just waiting for you. Don’t let college go by and regret not taking the opportunity to study abroad while you had it! 

Emma is a sophomore studying magazine journalism and English. You may contact her at emmatr76@gmail.com.