Studying Abroad: Things to Consider (Tips & Food for Thought)

I have been looking up information for studying abroad for years and I have finally decided to go through with it this year. Through the years I have picked up some information that I think would shave been beneficial to have considered a lot earlier in my study abroad career (?) journey (?) experience (?). Anyway, I made a video of tips and general food for thought regarding studying abroad for the general SA Beginner.

1. RESEARCH IS EVERYTHING.

You are now a university student, so don't expect to get handed everything handed to you. On the contrary, the counselors are only there to guide you through the process and you will be responsible for at least 80% of the work. Think of this almost the same as when you applied to university for the first time. The counselors give you the information that you need but you have to find out what university and location works the best for you. I repeat: research is everything.

Important things to research:

• Familiarize yourself with your university's application process.

The application process for each university is different and the application process for each individual program within that university can be vastly different as well. Familiarize yourself with any specific requirements of the university (required to attend information sessions, mandatory advisor meeting, etc...) as well as general requirements for the programs offered (recommendation letters, deadlines, g.p.a requirements, etc...) Even if studying abroad is years away, it doesn't hurt to have general knowledge. This can also help you avoid any vastly surprises later.

• Estimate expenses.

Costs can vary a lot and it really depends on the program and the individual. You have to take into consideration any financial aid, tuition costs, application fees, etc... This really can vary greatly for each individual so I really recommend you become familiar with your program and your school. 

Exchange programs usually require you to pay your university's tuition and food plan, so look into the prices your housing office. If you want to choose a direst program, you have to pay the abroad university's expenses. Go to the university's inter nation house website and you can most likely find information there. If you are having trouble finding information, ASK AN ADVISOR. It is their job to help you with any questions you have. Yes, you are required to do a great deal of it yourself, but they are more knowledgable about the process than you are. If you can't find the information you need, they can probably find it for you.

Be aware of extra expenses. Plane tickets and spending money are your responsibility and they are not a part of the expenses that can (?) be covered by your school. Consider any sightseeing, extra food and souvenir costs and add those to your overall expenses.

If you are eligible for scholarships APPLY. 

• Look for universities that offer classes for your major.

You don't want to go abroad for months only to come back and find out that none of the classes you took count towards your major. 

Your university's study abroad office should have university suggestions by majors, and you can typically find the information through the study abroad program's website as well. 

• Talk to professors. Recommendation letters are required.

I think this one talks for itself.

It is definitely a lot of information, but these are the main things that you should really consider if you want to study abroad. I hope this post helps some of you out and gives you some things to think about. 

Good luck to all of you! 안녕~! ^^

If you guys have any questions or video suggestions please let me know. If it is a simple question, you can leave it on my tumblr page. 

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