Studying abroad can seem daunting.
You’re far away from your family and friends for the first time. Unfamiliar surroundings mean you must be extra cautious when you’re traveling. You may barely know the dominant language of the country you want to visit. You’ll have to get familiar with another campus, adjust to a different education system, convert money, learn new customs and interact with people whose cultural values may not align with yours. These expenses are known for dimming any excitement a student has about going to a host university. These barriers are tough to break through, but so are you.
The best way to undergo self-growth is by challenging yourself. Living in another country and experiencing a new culture will push you out of your comfort zone. This exposure will allow you to become more independent and realize abilities you never knew you possessed.
By exploring new landscapes, you can gain a better perspective on societies different than yours and develop an appreciation for diverse cultures. Thus, you become a more open-minded individual.
It’s intriguing to learn about the history and influence of various countries but to actually visit the place where an important event occurred is inspiring. The University’s Academic Programs Abroad is partnered with over 300 domestic and international programs, which allows undergraduate and graduate students to broaden their academic horizons. APA’s options range from one week to one year programs.
Students have the opportunity to choose between faculty-led programs, national student exchange and international exchange. Faculty-led programs enable students to travel to another country with faculty from the University. National student exchange allows students to study in another state within America. International exchange let’s students study in another country. All programs grant students with the opportunity to acquire credit hours.
Studying abroad, whether it’s domestic or international, can be affordable. The University provides numerous scholarships and necessity-based financial aid for students who wish to seek unfamiliar terrain. Students can also apply for study abroad scholarships online. APA even has bilateral programs, meaning students pay the University’s tuition for the exchange student, while the exchange students does the same for their home college. This is helpful because you’re paying the University’s affordable tuition instead of the tuition from your host institution, which can be pricey.
The University hosts a two-day study abroad fair in the Union’s Royal Cotillion room during the fall and spring semesters. Students can delve into the array of programs and financial aid presented to them. The APA website lists partnered programs, financial aid availability, reassurance for concerned parents and FAQs.
Why wouldn’t you want to visit another place that’s going to mold you into a better version of yourself? Of course, there will be challenges. Your stay at your host institution will not be fun everyday, but you will always learn from the hardships life never fails to hand us.
I encourage you to stop by the APA office in Hatcher Hall. The peer advisors will be thrilled to help find a program right for you. Even if you just browse the APA site or attend the next study abroad fair in the spring, you’re one step closer to opening a door of endless possibilities.
Most adults get married, have kids and don’t have the time or energy to plan international adventures. Travel while you’re young, and the only responsibility you have is yourself. Create wonderful memories to tell your loved ones. You deserve to see the world. So, why not grab your passport and go?
Jasmine Edmonson is a 20-year-old mass communication sophomore from Denham Springs, Louisiana.
