Spooked to Study Abroad?
By Kevin Fitzgerald, study abroad advisor
This is the time of the year when we confront our fears. Being clowns, the walking dead, or just trying to figure out what costume to wear. Studying abroad is one of the scariest things out there for college students. It is truly the fear of the unknown that prevents thousands of students from taking a leap into the unknown in search of language skills, new cultural understanding and deeper learning. These fears need to be tackled and banished from your thoughts. You do not want to be one of those “It’s my one big regret in college” alums who reach out to our office asking about programs for adults. So let us take a quick minute to take a deeper look at some of the common study abroad fears that many students have.
Host families
Moving in with a family after just getting the first tastes of freedom? AHHH! Don’t be scared. Most host families are used to international students and even have more relaxed rules than US parents.
Overwhelming travel planning
Scared you will be buried in travel books and websites planning out the next adventure? Don’t be! Many students find helpful advisors on site, other students looking to share the duties, expenses, and experiences with you. Some locations even have clubs that plan many awesome adventures for international students.
I won’t know anyone
For some students meeting new people from around the US and the world is a goal of theirs while studying abroad. Many new adventures await. For those looking to have a stronger connection, Miami’s Luxembourg program is a perfect fit. Almost all of the students on the program are from Miami and quickly make long lasting friendships through the many adventures had over a semester.
Learn more about study abroad at Miami
Still scared? Come talk to an experienced traveler in MacMillan Hall, 2nd Floor.
Advisors are waiting to pick your brain!