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Pros and Cons to Foreign Study
One of the best ways to see the world, experience another culture and gain an education all at the same time is with foreign or international study. Although the entire process of becoming an international student may seem a little daunting, there are organizations dedicated to helping you every step of the way.
However, before kissing your parents goodbye and saying au revoir to your friends, there are a few advantages and disadvantages to foreign study that need to be considered.
The Pros to Foreign Study
Studying internationally will help you learn about another culture in a way books and the internet cannot. There is learning about the Sistine Chapel in an art book and then there is seeing it in person. You need to be immersed in the culture to be able to truly appreciate and understand it.
Foreign study also gives you the chance to learn another language. It can be scary studying somewhere where you don’t understand anyone around you. However, it can also be a powerful experience, especially when you master a few phrases or become fluent.
You will also have the opportunity to meet people you may have never met. Instead of socializing with the typical college students, you will experience the culture and social events of another country. This is an eye opening experience to say the least.
Studying abroad also looks great on a resume. If you can handle being on your own in a new country then you demonstrate independence and resilience, two attributes companies look for in their employees.
Finally, foreign study can help you find yourself in more ways than one. You are completely on your own when you study internationally which means you are getting a crash course in independence. You will also learn more about yourself and learn to appreciate what you have back home. After a year or a semester aboard, your mothers awful cooking will never look so good.
Cons to Foreign Study
Sounds pretty good right? However, keep in mind that there are some things about foreign study that are not so great. First off, you will be homesick. There’s no denying it. You will miss your parents, your friends, and your social surroundings. You will miss your bed, your television programs and your typical foods. However, this will eventually pass. Furthermore, with internet you can easily stay connected to everyone back home.
Another problem can come from cultural differences. You are in a foreign country and you may not agree with some of the customs, habits, rules and religions of that country. You need to remember to respect their ways. Being rude about their traditions will only make it worse.
Foreign study is also extremely expensive. You will need to pay for more than just your education. Some countries have a higher cost of living than what you may be used to. Food, tickets, leisure activities, room and board all need to be taken into consideration.
Deciding to study aboard is an individual decision that only you can choose to do. Although it may be an experience of a lifetime for some, it’s nothing short of a terrifying nightmare for others. Think carefully about all aspects of foreign study before bidding adieu.