studentsineurope

Leaving on a Jet Plane: Tips for Studying Abroad

By Todd Gallicano

Work and play time mix on Study Abroad program.

You’ve finally gotten comfortable with your roommate, classes are going great, and campus life is fulfilling, so what better time than now to pack up and study overseas? Study abroad programs may have been around for decades, but they’ve become increasingly more popular in recent years. In fact, according to the Open Doors report from the Institute of International Education (IIE), 223,534 students studied abroad last year, and the number of American students receiving academic credit for their study abroad has increased 150% in the past decade. If you’re considering going overseas to participate in a study abroad program, or have been approached about it, we’ve put some information together to help you understand this exciting opportunity.

Why Should You Go?
Students should get a passport along with their student ID, and they should use it to study abroad at least once during their academic careers,” says Allan E. Goodman, President and CEO of the Institute of International Education. The benefits of studying abroad have been found to be wide-ranging and long lasting. According to a survey by the Institute for the International Education of Students (IES), nine out of 10 respondents reported increased self-confidence as a result of their study abroad experience. Students also said it enhanced interest in academic study and served as a catalyst for increased maturity, as well as helped with understanding cultural values and biases. In addition, 63 percent said their study abroad experience improved career opportunities. If these aren’t good enough reasons, you can also get academic credit. 40 U.S. campuses, primarily large research institutions, awarded academic credit for study abroad last year to more than 1,000 of their students.

Where to Go and What to Do
The Open Doors study found 58% of all U.S. students who study abroad do so in Europe. Where you go will depend on the program you’re involved in. Consider what you’re studying and what areas of the world would be most beneficial to your career. Think about language and culture as it relates to your long-term career goals. Incidentally, the top three major fields of study of Americans studying abroad are the social sciences, business and management, and humanities.

How Long?
Study Abroad programs come in all shapes and sizes. The IIE reports that semester study attracts 37% of students, 52% choose short-term programs (including summer, January term and any program of less than 8 weeks) and 5.5% spend a full academic or calendar year abroad. Once again, the kind of study you are focusing on will have an impact on the duration of your stay. If you’re taking on a scientific or sociological research project staying for longer than 8 weeks may be necessary, but if you’re simply looking to get the study abroad experience and will be taking a variety of short courses, a semester or 8 week session would be satisfactory.

Some Basic Tips
The IES has set out some general advice on how to go about your study abroad program. They recommend selecting a well-established program sponsor with significant experience and a good reputation. Research the program, paying special attention to its history in certain locations, the quality and safety of student housing, how much interaction you’ll have with the local culture, and what the screening process is for staff and host families. Talk to students who have been in the program to find out their thoughts and experiences. IES also suggests you find programs that have an extensive preparation process, including supplying you with prep materials and holding an orientation. The program should thoroughly brief you on the country you’ll be visiting, with a focus on medical issues and insurance, safety, and other concerns. In addition to checking out your particular program, talk with friends who may have studied abroad, and locate the U.S. consulate in your host city. Consulates provide a variety of services for Americans abroad and are located in every country with which the U.S. has diplomatic relations. Registering at the local U.S. consulate lets them know that you are in the country and will make it much easier for them to provide service to you.

Studying abroad is a truly unique and exciting way to round out your college education. So explore your options, talk to an advisor, consult your professors… And expand your campus to anywhere in the world.

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American Students Are Studying Abroad at Record Levels Find out more in this article from Open Doors at Institute for International Education.
The US State Department also offers some great advice, and provides valuable services, for students studying abroad.