Studying abroad is becoming more popular for college students. It's affordable, available, and a safe way to see the world while still working towards a degree. Here's why choosing to study abroad can be the best decision since opening a Netflix account:
1. It's more fun than you ever thought school could be.
Although college can be fun, imagine college 10 minutes away from the Colosseum or maybe spending your weekends doing homework overlooking the city of London. Although you'll still have the same responsibilities, there's something fulfilling about being able to see the world while still getting an education.
2. You get an outlook on another country's education system.
Education systems aren’t the same around the world. Getting a view of other countries may seem intimidating at first, but the staff at the schools is always helpful. Observe how students from other countries study, the content of the classes, and remember- it’s possible to learn something new every day.
3. You experience the culture, more than you could on just a vacation.
Although you may have traveled to a different country for vacation, you’ve probably only just scratched the surface of a culture. Staying for at least a semester not only gives you a feel for the education system, but daily life and knowledge of the country itself. You learn simple things like how to take a bus there, the proper etiquette at restaurants, and the local places to hangout. You may even pick up on the language, or at least how to ask where the bathroom is. Trust me, this will come in handy.
4. You appreciate your family and friends more.
Homesickness may not affect everyone, but it affects a lot of people. Luckily, there’s Skyping, texts, and even good ol’ snail mail to talk to your family and friends back home. Though this may be difficult, you’ll realize how important the people in your life are.
5. You make lifelong friends.
You’re all in the same boat. Now imagine that boat is in a different country, without your family or friends and everyone around you might not even speak your language. The only other people on that boat are your fellow study abroad students. Those students are your flotation devices. They’ll support you through the homesickness. They’ll be there for your firsts, and you’ll be there for theirs. The memories you share with them will last forever.
6. "Oh, the places you'll go."
The only bad thing about traveling is deciding where to go next. During your time abroad, you’ll be in closer range (depending on where you go) to other countries. Most places have at least a one week break during the semester. Use it wisely; explore!
7. It has long-term benefits.
Job searching is unbearable these days. Getting hired, even with a degree can be tough. Having a semester or even more time abroad on your resume puts you ahead of the crowd. You’ll stand out as a cultured, experienced person, who will bring a lot to the workforce. A job = money, and money = even more traveling!
8. Everyone will be totally jealous of your IG photos.
This one may seem silly at first, but the pictures that you take will turn into memories you’ll have forever. You’ll remember the first time you tried zip lining in the Amazon, having real Italian pizza, or even when you made a fool of yourself at a traditional Scottish dance. The pictures will last forever, and even your grandkids may get sick of the stories you have to tell about them.
9. You put your big-kid pants on.
For most of our lives until college, we’re fairly dependent on our parents and teachers. While abroad, no one’s there to tell you to do your homework, fold your laundry, or drive you places. If you’re looking for a way to find a sense of independence, go abroad. Trust me, you’ll go from disaster-in-the-kitchen to at least boiling-water-extraordinaire.
10. You're young & you can.
Eventually, our lives will be full of over-time shifts and conference calls. Right now, while it's offered to us, how could we possibly pass up the experience? The world extends beyond the Jersey shore, see it while you can!
