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Study Abroad: Factors To Consider - Education - Nairaland

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Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by mbadirect: 4:46pm On Nov 10, 2012
There are many study abroad programs that allow international students to pursue their academic careers in a foreign country. Study abroad programs are not only helpful to an international student that wants to pursue his studies abroad alone, but also to those who want to learn the language and culture of that country. Therefore, it is the best idea for those students that want to pursue a career in an international milieu.
However before packing your bags, it sage to ponder on the following factors - thus making an informed decision.

LOCATION
Obviously, geographic location is a fantastic starting point. Are you continually fantasizing about traipsing through a Kenyan safari park? Do you want to study India’s emerging economy up close? Has the Australian outback always held mythic appeal? You can find study abroad opportunities on every continent. If you’re not leaning towards any specific country, look for programs that will complement/meet your academic interests. For example, ecology or environmental science students might gravitate towards a program in Central or South America that allows them to explore/study rain forests. England’s rich and storied theatrical tradition might be tempting to drama majors.
Choosing a geographic location doesn’t only mean figuring out the country in which you want to study. You also need to determine whether or not you’d like a program based in an urban or rural environment. Though the energy and frenetic pace of a city might hold appeal at home, it could become overwhelming in a foreign setting where it might take you awhile to get your bearings. Additionally, a small town will likely prove less touristy and offer more opportunities to truly interact with the local culture. However, cities are clearly cultural meccas. You’ll have greater access to museums, historic institutions and nightlife, not to mention transportation. And, maybe of greater significance, you will come across a larger number of people who speak English (not to be discounted when you’re hopelessly lost or trying to confirm that you are, in fact, purchasing shampoo).

LANGUAGE
You might choose a program based upon language requirements or language interests. For example, if you’re already studying (or have studied) Spanish, it makes sense for you to consider a country where that language is spoken (there’s no better way to enhance your proficiency than by living abroad). However, don’t automatically default to the country or city you first associate with that language. Sure, Madrid might be an amazing place to live and to study. But perhaps Santiago, Chile is actually a better fit for your needs or interests!

Before zeroing in on a particular program, you’ll need to make sure you meet the language requirements. Some programs expect their students to have a certain level of knowledge while other welcome beginners. Also, you’ll have to double-check whether or not your home institution insists that you take a few language courses on campus, prior to your departure.

TYPE OF PROGRAM
Another aspect that you must consider is the type of academic setting you want. Some undergrads opt for the foreign exchange route and enroll in a university overseas. This is a fantastic way to dive right into your host country. You’ll be in classes with local students and fully experience their education system (which is likely somewhat different than your own). If total immersion sounds intimidating, you can seek out your local college or consortium that runs a program in conjunction with a foreign university.

3 Likes

Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by dilbert100: 12:50pm On Nov 16, 2012
nice thread.
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by Iaz93: 12:52pm On Nov 16, 2012
cOoL
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by MMM2(m): 12:59pm On Nov 16, 2012
Good
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by young5(m): 1:01pm On Nov 16, 2012
great info
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by Youngzedd(m): 1:18pm On Nov 16, 2012
Gud job.
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by Blackbody20(m): 1:24pm On Nov 16, 2012
Nice one.
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by jamp: 1:27pm On Nov 16, 2012
Was expecting sometin more.
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by megxo(m): 1:34pm On Nov 16, 2012
JOB
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by hydiciousb: 1:54pm On Nov 16, 2012
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Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by Tenderly1(f): 2:32pm On Nov 16, 2012
jamp: Was expecting sometin more.
me too

1 Like

Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by IbroSaunks(m): 3:00pm On Nov 16, 2012
Tenderly1: me too
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Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by Nobody: 4:17pm On Nov 16, 2012
Dunh...! What abwt de financial aspect?
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by Hardfact: 4:28pm On Nov 16, 2012
Good attempt. Could've done better.
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by kokoye(m): 4:49pm On Nov 16, 2012
Money nko?
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by tew: 11:44pm On Nov 16, 2012
Wise up, where finance?
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by emmasmiles(m): 7:46am On Nov 17, 2012
Wow nice one. Xpecting more of dis
Re: Study Abroad: Factors To Consider by mbadirect: 7:26pm On Nov 18, 2012
HOUSING
There are also a myriad of housing options to think about. Many programs might secure housing within the dormitories of local universities. This is a great way to meet and socialize with local students. However, this also means that you might not have an ex-pat community to rely on should you encounter a stressful or confusing moment. Other programs might set you up in apartments with other exchange students. Another common housing option is to board with a host family. Host families can help provide a smooth transition to your semester abroad. You can learn a lot about the customs and cultural identity of your adopted/temporary home through them. And they can help you navigate your new surroundings. Finally, for the more intrepid and independent student, the occasional program might leave it up to you to find housing.
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