Why Consider Study Abroad?

Historically, study abroad in the United States has involved a very small percentage of college students who decided to study and travel for a summer, semester or year abroad. Typically their focus was limited to destinations in Western Europe.

Today there is a growing realization at all levels of education that students must be better prepared for a global society. This is resulting in a dramatic increase in the choice of study abroad options, enabling students to experience a diversity of the world’s cultures. Opportunities in Africa, Asia, Latin America, or virtually anywhere in the world abound. Programs offer intensive language study, home-stays, direct enrollment in foreign institutions, or multicultural experiences in several countries.

As students think about what they study and the careers they will pursue, they should consider that all have international dimensions. None of the many choices open to students are confined by geographic or cultural boundaries. For example, in the health-related professions there is a focus on world health issues, business is conducted on an international scale, and the diverse field of communications is most definitely global in scope. Students who develop a global perspective will no doubt gain a competitive edge in the world marketplace. While the number the students choosing to study abroad is increasing, it is still estimated that less than ten percent of undergraduate students include an international experience as a part of their undergraduate education. That is significantly less than the number of European, Asian and other students around the world who study abroad. These students benefit from demonstrating the skills and experiences they acquire during their time abroad, distinguishing themselves from other students who may be vying for the same job or graduate program.

In choosing a study abroad program, students should look carefully at what each type of program model has to offer, and they should select the program that best enables them to meet their objectives. As a part of their college selection process, students should also examine very carefully the support for study abroad offered by the institutions they consider. Does the school support study abroad, giving students the ability to enroll in their program of choice, and do they facilitate the transfer of academic credit? Do they offer financial assistance for studying abroad?

Hopefully, in the coming years a far greater number of U.S. students will take advantage of the wonderful opportunities around the world that await them.

Editorial provided by Paul Watson, Director of Enrollment Management, Semester at Sea.