How to choose the right international exchange or study abroad program
There are so many factors that go into this decision, and so many programs that exist! So it’s best to be honest with yourself about not just what you want out of the experience, but also how much time and effort you’re willing to put into the planning and preparation of your chosen program.
Be honest about what you want out of your global experience. Some students want a break from their personal and academic life in the U.S. Others are planning towards a future career goal. If you’re truthful about what you want to gain by going abroad, personal independence, career development, language skills, etc. can really help to narrow the search. So ask yourself:
- Why do you want to go abroad?
- Are you going to experience a country you’ve always wanted to visit, or do you want the courses offered to determine where you go due to their relation to your intended career goals?
- Is your decision to go abroad solely because an international experience looks good on your resume?
- Do you have future plans to do globally or internationally focused work?
Do your homework. There are so manyprograms you can choose from, and you’re only limiting yourself if you fail to do thorough research. Explore the following questions below and ask yourself if you want a program that:
- is language intensive?
- is the most cost-effective?
- is comprised of your fellow campus peers or a mix of students from a variety of schools?
- allows you to exchange places with one student?
- can earn you a specific number of credits?
- allows you to have your own apartment? or a homestay? or a student dorm?
- is short and sweet, like a summer program, or a year-long experience?
Be honest about the amount of prep/follow-through expected of you. When I was an undergrad, I chose a summer faculty-led program that my school offered. The credits directly transferred, as did much of my financial-aid.
While it was the “easiest” choice to make, I also failed to follow the step above, and did no additional research whatsoever. In hindsight, my time abroad could have been more beneficial to my professional growth or language skills had I taken the time to conduct research seriously. So ask yourself:
- Do I have time this semester to dedicate thorough research and choose the right program?
- Will my decision be based on one key factor: cost, destination, academic credits earned, etc.? And if so, am I willing to compromise in the other factors?
- If need be, am I responsible enough to facilitate between campuses in order to make sure all paperwork is submitted on time?
All these will help you make the right decisions to enable exchange program and study abroad benefit you.
Source: scholarshipsedu.com
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