Why Study Abroad?
Prof. Urrieta and the Summer 2011 Study Abroad students
10 reasons why you should considering studying abroad next semester!
- Obtain credit for all approved academic coursework abroad.Take the opportunity to break out of your academic routine; go abroad and still graduate on time.
- Studying abroad is the most effective way to learn a language.By immersing yourself in a different culture, you will continually hear and practice speaking the language you are trying to learn in its natural context.
- You will get to know another culture first-hand. Personally experiencing another country will allow you to expand your understanding of its culture beyond the surface-level differences in food, language, and appearances.
- Develop skills and gain experiences a classroom setting will never provide. Being in a new cultural setting gives you an opportunity to discover new strengths and abilities, conquer new challenges, and solve new problems.
- Make friends and contacts around the world. You will get to meet and mingle with the locals as well as other international students.
- Learn about yourself. Return home with new ideas and perspectives about yourself and your culture. The encounter with other cultures enables you to see your own culture through new eyes.
- Expand your view of the world. Studying abroad provides you with an informed and much less biased perspective toward other cultures and peoples.
- It can cost the same or less than spending the same time at UT. Consider studying in a country that has a lower cost of living and save. Also if you qualify for financial aid at UT, you can still receive aid while studying abroad.
- Study abroad enhances employment opportunities. To an employer, a student who has studied abroad is self-motivated, independent and willing to embrace challenges. Your experience in a foreign country will all set you apart from the majority of other job applicants.
- It's a once in a lifetime experience. Once you graduate new responsibilities come up like a job, buying a car, rent payments, a mortgage, and other family responsibilities. It will be difficult to get away for any length of time and immerse yourself in a foreign culture.