Study abroad can be daunting for most students. But its rewards can be life-altering as many returning studiers attest: new skills gained under pressure have emerged while perspectives about culture, themselves, and the world have forever altered.
But it’s important to keep in mind that not all study abroad experiences are equal, so what works for one person may not suit another. Therefore, it is wiser to research any program carefully, connecting with student alumni if possible in order to get an insider view.
Many sites that publish study abroad reviews rely on rankings based on the number of American students that attend each program listed, which may not accurately reflect its true quality. Therefore, if an option with high ratings yet few American participants is shown on an evaluation site it could indicate that this program caters more towards locals rather than Americans.