How to Choose Where to Study Abroad
You've probably heard it countless times: studying abroad can change your life. At the end of the day, who doesn't like to travel, make new friends, try different foods, and speak new languages? However, even though we always say the world is small, it is extremely big. So... How do we choose where to study abroad? Stay with me, and you will find out.
Why Study Abroad
Education is important, and those of you who have access to it should consider themselves lucky. Studying abroad in high school will benefit you even more. Those with academic experience outside their home country are more likely to get a job (World Economic Forum). Additionally, they will be able to demonstrate emotional maturity and adaptability. Not many feel ready to leave their homes at 16; if you do, welcome to the club! Moreover, by living with host families, you will be able to learn about new cultures and traditions. In fact, I'm sure that after living abroad, the word "normal" is going to leave your vocabulary because you will develop new habits and everything new is going to become familiar. In short, does studying abroad change lives? Yes, it does.
When to Study Abroad
Given that you are now informed about the benefits of studying abroad, you should definitely explore what programs are available and whether you are eligible or not. Students usually study abroad during their second-to-last year of high school. However, in some countries, students can also take a gap year between high school and college. If you don't feel ready to face this big step during high school, don't worry! Exchange is definitely an option at university as well.
Where to Study Abroad
It is easy to take someone's advice to study abroad; it is tougher to decide which country will become your home away from home. I get it; I still struggle to this day to decide where I want to move next. Unfortunately, I won't be able to make this decision for you. You won't feel 100% sure either. Therefore, you have to be open to taking risks. Even so, today I will try to list several factors you can consider when choosing where to study abroad.
Language Preferences
It goes without saying that thinking about which language you are interested in is important. However, you should also think about why you find that language important. Have you always wanted to speak it fluently? Do you have family that speaks it? Or is it going to benefit your future career? Identify your target language and focus on your long-term goals.
Career Prospects
Are you looking to move abroad permanently? Perhaps you should consider a country with a low unemployment rate and generous job offers in your desired field. Keep in mind that you will be living with a local family, who will be your main point of reference in building a stable network in your host country.
Cultural Differences
Are you looking for a country with a completely different culture from yours? Or are you looking for a place that is similar to home? Keep in mind that culture shock is real, and it is up to you how you embrace the differences.
Distance
Are your parents hesitant about sending you overseas? Perhaps going to a country that is only a 2-hour flight away will help your chances of convincing your parents to let you study abroad. Generally speaking, those who studied close to home also visit their host country way more than those who studied far away, as it is more affordable and logistically easier to go back and visit.
Welcoming Environment
The factors mentioned above are all valuable; however, the biggest advice I can give you is to go to countries where diversity is not considered a threat. Unfortunately, there are still parts of the world where not all forms of diversity are tolerated.
2 comments: