Everyone has heard of study abroad programs. Despite knowing this, these programs can still often be overlooked. Many know from high school that studying abroad is something they want to do, but some who are not previously interested don’t give it much of a second thought. To others it is simply a fun experience, a chance to travel and spend some time in a foreign place while being able to continue their education. While this is an aspect of the overall concept, study abroad is a far more complex thing, a multifaceted endeavor full of endless opportunities present and future.
Let’s be honest: the biggest hangup for most students is money. College is expensive enough; why should students have to spend so much extra money on these programs? It is true that the sticker price can look quite steep, but there are always ways to minimize the overall amount. A multitude of grants and scholarships are at your fingertips, not to mention various tuition exchange programs, which transfer whatever financial aid you’re already getting to a compliant school, meaning you could attend somewhere overseas for the same price you’re paying for current tuition.
Why study abroad in the first place? First and foremost, it looks good. Most college students are already in the mindset of creating a good resumé, and a term, semester, or year abroad can be just the thing to help you stand out from others in your future career. One major thing that makes an applicant stand out is foreign language proficiency, particularly Spanish. If you’re learning Spanish and spend time studying in Latin America or Spain, that can help your language goals immensely and put you right on track to adding Spanish to your resumé. There are so many ways that studying abroad can aid you in your future career. It promotes a sense of global perspective, can help to display your problem-solving skills and adaptability, and allows you to begin networking with foreign contacts in prospective fields.
Beyond the career benefits, studying abroad is life-changing. Even a little bit of time spent somewhere else can broaden your mind and understanding of the world. Studying abroad gives you the unique opportunity to participate in the global conversation in the most hands-on way possible, while also providing you with the tools for success in your future.
I would be remiss not to mention how daunting the task of living somewhere strange while staying on top of your studies can feel. But if the study abroad process were a complete cake walk, surely every single student would sign up. Yes, it can be tough sometimes; but that extra work you have to put in is just another part of the overarching theme–that studying abroad is about trying new things, broadening your horizons, learning adaptability, and perhaps above all, stepping out of your comfort zone. In short, it is the very challenges that make study abroad intimidating that also make the experience so valuable.
Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience for all students no matter their inclinations–and so I believe it is of the utmost importance that our institutions of higher education create as many opportunities as possible for as many students as possible, and in the process, foster a culture of worldliness and respect on campuses across the nation. Because at the end of the day, study abroad programs are not just a lagniappe, they are an integral part of the university system and an invaluable tool for young adults in an increasingly global landscape.
