During their time in college, many people choose to study abroad. Whether it be for a semester, a year, or just for the summer this option is great for those filled with wanderlust, but not so great for others. When weighing the options and trying to decide if this is right for you, you may try to think of a list of pros and cons to make your decision easier.
I have given you a head start by making my own list!
Pro's
1. Meeting new people: Nothing beats making new friends, but how cool would it be to have friends from all around the world? Studying abroad would open you up to the culture of where you are, but also the cultures of those around you.
2. Experiencing a new culture: It's one thing to travel to another country on vacation, but actually living there is a whole different story. You'll immerse yourself in a brand new culture. You'll be able to try new things and grow an appreciate for something different than what you're used to. You'll leave with lifetime memories and experiences.
3. Learn about your own heritage: If you choose to study in a place where your ancestors came from, you can see and experience the culture that is part of who you are. The times will be different, I'm sure, but the history and culture will match what those before you lived in.
4. Become more independent: Studying abroad will cause you to break out of your shell and live more on your own than you most likely ever have. You won't have that support system of friends and family right there. You'll truly learn what it's like to be living on your own.
5. More travel: Because most other countries are surrounded by many others and have a train or subway system, you would have so many opportunities to travel outside of your host city. Studying in Thailand could lead to trips to Hong Kong or Korea on your weekends off. Studying in England could lead you to France or Italy during a school break. So many opportunities would be open to someone who studies abroad.
Con's
1. Expenses: It can be really expensive to study abroad. Not only are you paying for school like you are at home, but also where you live, food, and even spending money. No one can resist tacky souvenirs! Many people choose to study abroad during the regular semester or school year because student loans can often cover the tuition.
2. Potential language barrier: Depending on where you go, it may be difficult to communicate with those around you and understand the daily parts of life. This can also be considered a pro by helping to improve your knowledge of another language!
3. Being away from friends and family: As exciting as studying abroad may be, everyone gets homesick from time to time. It'll be hard to get used to not being able to hangout with your friends everyday or go get lunch with your parents. You'll have to get used to Skype and FaceTime dates for those few months.
4. Culture shock: When arriving at your new home, it can be hard not to deal with some kind of culture shock. Jet lag, changes in the weather, types of food to eat, and even the side of the road that cars drive on. These things may make it difficult to adjust at first, but everyone gets used to their new way of living.
Pro's and Con's
1. Coming home: You will fall in love with whatever place you decide to study in. When the time comes to go back home, there will be so many emotions. Excitement about going back to the familiar and finally seeing your parents, friends, and pets. But also sadness from leaving this new home you've made and a fear of not knowing when or if you'll be back.
Studying abroad is difficult, but such a rewarding experience. You may never have that opportunity again in your life and you will grow in so many ways. I hope this list made your decision easier to make!
