Students say experience was the most meaningful and rewarding of their lives.
Before making study-abroad decisions, students need to consider the reasons why they want to pursue this experience. For many college students today, a study abroad experience is regarded as an integral part of their college education but without further reflection, a student may make choices that are not right for them. Their experience may not provide the benefits which could have been had with a greater understanding of the reasons for studying abroad as they apply to their individual academic, personal and career goals. This article discusses these various reasons so students can make good decisions.
Meet Educational Goals
Some academic programs require or strongly recommend that students complete an international studies experience.
Some academic programs require or strongly recommend that students complete an international studies experience and at a few schools, a study-abroad experience is mandatory for all students. Students majoring in a foreign language, international relations, international studies, international business or other similar program are strongly encouraged, and sometimes required, to attend school overseas. Regardless of the school's policies, students are very often inspired intellectually either because the overseas education offers something beyond what is offered at their home school or because they are physically close to the subject of their studies.
For those with a major