Study Abroad: term given to a program, usually run through a university, which allows a student to live in a foreign country and attend a foreign university...the program usually grants credit for courses taken at the foreign institution and some also arrange for a work-study or internship agreement.

According to research conducted by the Institute of International Education, more than 332,000 U.S. students studied abroad during the 2016-2017 academic year. Many students go on the basis of being able to experience various cultures and experiences. As I am learning over my first few days at a study abroad at Oxford University, Study Abroad is not all about being abroad. While being abroad is an incredible experience that I am absolutely loving, the courses I am attending are constantly on the front of my mind.

My infectious disease course requires two group projects and one final project while the Shakespeare course requires a 1500 and a 2500 word essay. All of these assignments must be turned in on time and prior to the end of my study abroad on the 26th aka 3 weeks away. While I am excited to be exploring the city of Oxford, there is much work to be done in order to complete these assignments. Including going to class. Each one is over 2 hours long and they begin at 8:30 in the morning. I am by no means complaining about the incredible opportunity I have at hand. However, I had not expected the course load to be so intense while doing a study abroad program due to the sheer mass of excursions, events, and opportunities during our month here. Especially since these courses have been greatly condensed (for the purpose of our trip) from 16 weeks to 4 weeks.

While study abroad is shaping up to being a great opportunity thus far filled with adventures, US v UK soccer matches, and LOTS of photos, I urge anyone considering study abroad to be sure the course load is something they think they can handle while being abroad in such an amazing city such as Oxford.