During college, we have the opportunity to study abroad. We tell you about its benefits and how to prepare for the trip. Studying abroad during your university years has become increasingly popular in recent decades. It is often presented as a unique opportunity to broaden horizons, acquire skills, and experience different cultures before obtaining our
eTítulo and entering the job market. But what are the real benefits of studying abroad for a semester? And, more importantly, how should we prepare to make the most of this experience?
Benefits of studying abroad:
Personal development and growth
One of the most immediate benefits of studying abroad is personal development. Being away from home, in a different environment, will allow us to discover new facets of ourselves, learn to face new challenges, overcome insecurities, and gain confidence in our abilities. Being away from home is tough, but very enriching. University gives us the opportunity to live a unique experience and we shouldn't miss it for anything in the world. After all, it is temporary and before we know it, we will be back home.
Intercultural learning
Studying abroad offers a deep immersion in a new culture. This experience can make us more open-minded, help us understand and respect cultural differences, and develop intercultural skills that will be very valuable in an increasingly globalized world.
Improvement of language skills
For many, the opportunity to improve in a second language is one of the main motivations for studying abroad. Total language immersion will greatly accelerate the learning process and provide us with real practice that is impossible to replicate in a classroom.
Expansion of academic perspectives
Universities around the world have different approaches and methodologies. Studying abroad will allow us to experience new teaching methods, access different resources, and broaden our academic perspectives. When we graduate, we will also have a different and interesting experience to add to our resume, which will make a difference compared to other competitors that any recruiter will take into account.
How to prepare for studying abroad:
If studying abroad catches our attention, we can't just sit around waiting for the Erasmus fairy to knock on our door and offer us the ideal experience. We have to take control and plan the project well (which, by the way, is also exciting and frustrating at the same time, so we will learn a lot).
Research destinations and programs
Before embarking on the adventure, it is essential to research different programs and universities. We must consider both the academic offerings and the language, culture, and lifestyle of the destination country.
Financial planning
Studying abroad can be a significant cost and it is not a bad idea to start saving as soon as possible to have, in addition to essential expenses covered, a small cushion for unexpected expenses. It is vital to create a detailed budget that includes tuition, accommodation, food, and other expenses, and see
all the scholarships that may be available to us to apply for them at the right time. Some universities offer exchange agreements associated with departments that can help alleviate the financial burden. Let's not leave anything unexplored.
Cultural preparations
Good preparation can reduce cultural shock. Reading about the country, familiarizing ourselves with local customs, trying typical food at a restaurant in our city, learning about its history, consulting tourist guides to know which monuments and places we shouldn't miss, or learning some slang in the local language are essential and entertaining preparations.
Logistical aspects
We must not forget about the (boring and frustrating, but necessary) logistical details: keeping our passport up to date, obtaining the appropriate visa, checking if there are any recommended vaccinations, looking for accommodation, preparing academic documentation, and considering international health insurance... In addition, we will also need to know how much luggage we can bring and how to optimize the load.
Networking
Finally, it is a good idea to connect with other students who are also going to study abroad or who have already had the experience. They can surely give us good advice, share their experiences, and help create a support network in the destination country. Don't miss this opportunity and tell us about your experience afterwards!
