Top Ten Reasons to Study Abroad

1. Studying abroad is a life-altering experience!

I mean, when else will you have the chance to go live in another country for 4 months, no strings attached?!? (Okay, so maybe there are some strings attached, like money… but in terms of life attachments.) No work commitments, taking vacation days, having a family to consider, not bound to the work force…  yet. The most difficult part is making it feasible financially.

2. Learn about yourself and gain independence. 

Studying abroad is a chance to challenge yourself with situations that will test your abilities to adapt and learn. I'm a little nervous about sharing crazy and embarrassing stories that I'm sure will come along! I've always considered myself independent, having moved many, many times, but I'm sure being in a foreign country will still be a learning experience for me!

3. Gain perspective on another country & culture.

Studying abroad is a chance to step outside of the ordinary and experience a culture completely different from your own. We make so many assumptions from our day to day culture, and it's easy to fall into the trap that the "American way" is the "right" way. Now I'll get to see more complexities. 

4. Learn the language!

Although I've studied Spanish and German "by the books", I've always had difficulty communicating with a native speaker -- despite all my practice. The only way to truly become fluent in a language is to be immersed in it. I've heard Italian is similar to Spanish, so my goal is to be able to speak decent Italian. 

5. Broaden your education.

 In today's global economy, study abroad can be a vital element in a college education. Although I am a science major, I am studying painting and Italian in Italy. I'd like to be open minded and more strongly equipped with a mind that can combine both the arts with the sciences.

6. Programs work with any academic program.

There are SO many different study abroad program choices, not to mention exchange programs. If you really have the heart to go abroad, it is definitely feasible if you do your research! Common obstacles usually are financial or graduating on time. I'll share my experience and touch on both of these later!

7. Experience unique academic structures.

Do your biology research in Costa Rica or a business internship for a Japanese railroad company; intern with the British Parliament, or design your own academic fieldwork project in the country of your choice. I believe different academic settings can stimulate learning growth better - in Florence, I will be out doing field studies for painting and taking trips to museums in the city as part of the class!

8. See the world (or at least a part of it).

While in Italy, I plan to do some traveling both within the country and also to neighboring ones, such as Switzerland and France. The opportunities are endless!

9. Make connections that can last a lifetime.

This one is important to me. There's value in knowing people that are completely different from you in personality, background, and life values. The college I attend attracts a pretty homogenous population - white, from more small towns or rural areas of Ohio. Let's just say there's a proper way to say "deer huntin' " - pronounced without the 'g'. :)

10. International travel and study are fun and exciting.

Probably scary too.. But still a unique experience to be taken advantage of if possible!