Study Abroad: Tools & Tips
Choosing a Study Abroad Location
Guiding Questions
There are tons of options for going abroad. Here are some introductory questions to get you thinking about what kind of abroad experience you’re looking for. If you’ve already chosen one, skip ahead to Serving Abroad: Tools & Tips, to begin planning your service experience abroad.
What kind of international program are you looking for?
- summer
- semester
- alternative break (1 or 2 weeks)
What about academics?
- Do you want to earn credit toward your major or minor?
- Do you want to learn about the culture of another country?
- Do you want to take courses that are not available at your home university?
- Do you want to take courses that will help you decided on a future career?
What about language?
- Do you want to gain fluency in another language?
- Do you prefer studying in an English-speaking country?
- Would you like to study in a non-Anglophone country, but at an institution where courses are taught in English?
- Would you like to take some courses in English and others in another language?
What about costs?
- Do you need to keep costs in line with what you would spend for a semester at your home university?
- Do you receive financial aid? Check with your Financial Ad Office to see if institutional aid can transfer to abroad programs.
- Do you want to apply for a scholarship? Check with your Financial Aid Office for opportunities.
What about location?
- Is there a country that interests you because of your heritage?
- Do you want to be in a small town or a big city?
- Do you want a campus-like environment?
- Do you look forward to challenges of a non-traditional location?
What about housing?
- Do you want to live in a dorm or an apartment?
- Do you want to live with a host family?
After considering these questions, set up a meeting with someone in your Study Abroad Office on campus to begin discussing your abroad experience.
Also, check out the Action Timeline see an expanded action plan.