How to Take Advantage of Studying Abroad This Summer
HOW TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF STUDY ABROAD THIS SUMMER
Congratulations! You’ve successfully made it through another academic year. Right about now, you’re probably looking forward to some well-deserved relaxation.
However, when you catch up on all the sleep that a busy semester (not to mention finals week) left you without, and you journey further down the road toward graduation, we recommend that you set aside time this summer to give some thought to what an international experience would add to your resume.
With that being said, studying abroad adds more than just a line to your resume; it changes your perspective, introduces you to new experiences, and provides you with opportunities you may not have otherwise encountered.
Living on your own in a foreign environment affords you a newfound independence, which in turn increases confidence. You will also meet fantastic new friends from around the U.S. and the world who will forever remind you of your time abroad.
No matter your major, there is a study abroad location and program out there for you! A summer exploring Machu Picchu in Peru? Spending St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin during a spring semester? Living in Barcelona for an entire academic year? The possibilities are endless – all you have to do is start your search.
Selecting a Program
Study abroad advisors at your college or university are great resources to start the process. They can help provide you with ideas, or help you narrow down your list if you simply can’t decide between continents.
If you want a shorter experience, need to pick up some extra credits, or your major simply doesn’t allow you to go abroad during a traditional semester – perhaps a summer or winter study abroad program is what’s right for you.
Advisors are available to help you through these decisions and find the perfect fit for you. Most study abroad offices have drop-in hours too!
Another decision aside from your study abroad location is the type of program you’d like to participate in. There are traditional study opportunities with sit-down classes at international universities, as well as field-based, hands-on research and learning opportunities.
Some programs are broken up so you move locations once or twice during the semester, spending about a month in each place. No matter your academic needs or goals, you and your study abroad advisor can find a location to make it happen.
The Bottom Line
With graduation approaching, studying abroad adds a boost to your resume that shows employers that you’re independent, take initiative, adapt well to new environments, and are not afraid to take a risk.
I know you could be relaxing on a beach in Cape Cod, but if you take the time to plan ahead now, then later you could be relaxing on the beach in the Amalfi coast.
Trust me, American beaches do not even compare to Italian beaches. So look into the study abroad programs that can offer you an adventure of a lifetime!