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Study Abroad 101

By Aimee Pokwatka
Learning & Life Columnist

According to a study conducted by Florida State University's College of Education, study abroad program participants have about a 30% greater chance of earning a college degree than non-participants. Additionally, study abroad participants have a higher mean GPA and a greater reported confidence level. The benefits of study abroad can be yours with a little research and preparation.

As the world grows in complexity, educators and business people seek students with experiences beyond the classroom. These students demonstrate greater maturity, language proficiency, and international perspective. You may benefit from studying abroad, so let's look at some questions to ask to get started.

Is Study Abroad for You?

These questions can help you decide if you want to study outside the country:

• Would you like to focus on a particular field of study, learn a language, or experience a particular culture?
• What are your academic goals? Would study abroad fit into your current program as a requirement or elective?
• Do you prefer independent study or a classroom setting?
• Are you more comfortable surrounded by other American students?
• Would you rather stay with a host family, with other foreign students, or with fellow Americans?
• Are you more comfortable in large cities or small towns?
• What country/countries interest you?
• How much time, travel, and schooling abroad can you afford? Ask your campus advisor about financial aid options.

What Are Your Options?

Study abroad opportunities may include programs sponsored by U.S. or foreign schools, internships or service-learning programs, learning vacations, volunteer work programs, or trainee programs. Your language ability is a major factor in choosing a program.

Study abroad should never be used as an escape. The experience, while valuable, can also be stressful. It's not a decision that should be taken lightly.

Programs may vary in length, from six weeks to a summer, a semester, or a year. You may pursue either a specialized or broad course of study.

Making Your Plan

Talk to your campus study abroad office or an academic advisor to research your options. The Internet is a valuable tool for learning about study abroad programs, life in other countries, and what documents you'll need.

Try to find other students who have participated in study abroad programs to learn about their experiences and get their suggestions. Then follow these steps:

• Choose your location. Most countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, or Latin America welcome study abroad students.
• Consult your academic advisor regarding which programs are accredited, how you earn credit, whether you should pre-register for courses you'll take upon returning, and how this affects your degree and graduation plans.
• Make housing and transportation arrangements. If your institution or organization doesn't arrange this, travel agencies may help you find special student discounts.
• Obtain your necessary documents (e.g. passport or visa, if necessary).
• Verify that your medical insurance policies are valid while you're abroad. Visit your doctor and dentist before leaving the states.

Life as a Study Abroad Student

Familiarize yourself with the country's language, history, laws, and culture before you go. Make friends with your library, the Internet, embassy or tourism offices, or past study abroad participants. Culture shock may cause you some depression, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, and irritation with the new culture, but you should remain positive and be respectful of the culture.



About the Author
Aimee Pokwatka is a graduate student at Syracuse University and holds a B.A. degree in Anthropology from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

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