In my post blog post, “So You Want to Study Abroad” there are a few questions that are frequently contemplated that should be addressed when deciding where to study abroad. This post will shed some light on the question of where; choosing where to go.
When thinking of studying abroad the question of where is often the first thing that comes to mind. This seems to be a simple question that refers to location i.e. the country and/or city and that is a part of it but there are other factors that should be considered.
The first factor is Purpose:
The purpose of your study abroad should be a strong determining factor in the place you decide to go. Is your purpose to learn a new language? If so that would narrow down the countries that you could consider to learn from native speakers in a native environment.
If you are studying agriculture or environmental issues of a rainforest London, England is probably not the place you would want to go for your study abroad experience. There are an extensive amount of programs that cater to almost any interest so know your purpose first and then choose places that may have the experience you are looking for.
The next factor is Location:
Once you know your purpose and have an idea of the countries that may be a match to your purpose for your study abroad experience, it is time to narrow down your physical location. Research the cities and schools within the countries you are interested that comply with your purpose. I have known some students to base their location choice on climate, the proximity to the beach or other attractions. These are important factors to consider for the total experience but it should not override your purpose. I suggest you find a happy medium so that you enjoy your time while staying on task within your purpose for both learning and enjoying your time there.
The next factor is School/Curriculum:
Whether you are getting credit for your study abroad experience or not the school and curriculum are very important to the study portion of your study abroad experience. You want to make the most of the learning aspect of your trip so make sure the school and curriculum meets your needs. If you are getting college credit for your study abroad experience make sure your classes meet the requirements of your home university. Remember to get everything approved before you pay and leave for your trip. Trust me you don’t want the headache of dealing with trying to get credits approved for transfer after the fact.
Your school may also have relationships with universities that are in line with your purpose and what you want to study so check with your study abroad office and professors early in the process. They can often help to make this process much easier.
The final factor for this post is the Cost:
With a myriad of study abroad options, the cost can vary just as much. The cost factors include but are not limited to: tuition; room and board whether you are staying in a dorm, host family or apartment; living expenses i.e food, transportation while living abroad, etc.; transportation to and from your study abroad destination and any personal travel you plan to do especially if you are studying abroad on a different continent. Do your research. Check your school’s website to see if they have a study abroad section that may have examples of study abroad costs and budgets for students to use as a guide. Have a conversation with the Study Abroad professionals, professors, or administrators who are advising you on your trip. Also talk to your Financial Aid office and inquire about the options you have in regard to whether your financial aid could be applied to the expenses of your study abroad program and if so how and what are the steps that need to be taken to do so.
Contemplating the countries you may want to study abroad is only half the battle for choosing the best place for study abroad experience. Understanding your purpose, the locations that match your purpose, making sure that the school and curriculum will best suit your needs, as well as knowing and preparing for the costs associated with your trip must all be considered when picking your optimum location. After knowing your purpose the order of which you evaluate the other factors may change. Be open to the process and enjoy the journey. This can put you steps closer to that study abroad experience that could change your life.
KoMiSa’s Take Away Thought: Choosing where you want to study abroad is an important step and definitely impacts your experience so choose wisely.
Until Next Time,
KoMisa
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