Have you considered Studying Abroad? You Should!

By: Aleksandr Wittemann, Belk College of Business Peer Advisor

Studying abroad is one of the most unique and intriguing opportunities in college. You can travel to a different country, live like a local, and spend a semester studying in a completely new environment. It can be intimidating at times to navigate the process, but this blog post will share some helpful tips and ways you can learn a bit more about studying abroad.

Some background information about me and my experience: I am a study abroad alumni and a study abroad ambassador with the Office of Education Abroad (OEA) at UNC Charlotte. I studied abroad in Spring of 2020 in Madrid, Spain at La Universidad de Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M). I studied abroad through an affiliate provider, International Studies Abroad or ISA. Sadly, my study abroad experience was cut short due to the pandemic, but I was able to spend a little more than 2 months exploring Spain, making lifelong friends and eating lots of good food! 

What are some reasons to Study Abroad?

• See the world in a new way
• Gain valuable resume experience
• Learn about different cultures and meet new people
• Make new friends and connections
• Have fun!

Keep reading for some frequently asked questions!!

How do I find out more information about study abroad? You can click here and complete Study Abroad 101. Study Abroad 101 is a free, non-credit Canvas course where you will complete modules that answer questions about program options, how to finance study abroad, academic credit transfer, housing abroad, and how to succeed studying abroad!

What kind of housing is available abroad? It will largely depend on your program. Most programs offer student housing (dorms), homestays (living with a local family), or you can arrange your own housing. 

How do I get academic credit for studying abroad? For traditional programs, before you go abroad, the OEA will provide you a “course equivalency form” where you will need to get equivalency approval from different departments on campus. You can do this by printing the syllabi from your courses abroad and giving it to the department attached to your course equivalency form. 

When should I study abroad? It is recommended for most students that the study abroad their sophomore or junior year. Students cannot study abroad their last semester at Charlotte, unless it is a faculty led experience.

Where is the bet place to study abroad?  That is up to you! There is no wrong answer to this question. When trying to find a place to study abroad, you should consider the language, culture, academics, and financial implications.

Do I need to speak a foreign language? Not at all! Thankfully, we live in a world where modern technology is everywhere – meaning translation apps! It can be helpful to know a few words and to put some effort into learning the language but that also happens simply by living there!

The BCOB sponsors several faculty led Study Abroad Experiences during Spring Break and the summer. Check out those experiences here.

Only 11% of students throughout the United States take advantage of study abroad. This is a great opportunity to develop some new skills and help your resume stand out to employers. 

I hope that these are some helpful tips for starting your study abroad experience! If you have more questions, you can reach out to the Office of Education Abroad or you can send me an email!