Showing posts with label Study Abroad. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Study Abroad. Show all posts

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Study Abroad



Studying abroad in today’s date is every student’s aspiration; because a foreign degree offers a lot of benefits that helps students in the long run of their careers. Though it’s no more a distant dream nowadays with the diversity in information and options available but the basic necessary details are very crucial to be known if one intends to pursue a career or course abroad. Various basic data like:





  • Basic documents required



  • Eligibility criterion



  • Options and courses available



  • Right sources of data to contact





And other additional information is required from a student before he/she steps out to pursue his/her dream career form a foreign university. The tenure of studying abroad can vary from a few weeks to an entire academic year.


What one pursues depends on the qualifications coupled with their interests. Some come to pursue a career oriented course like MBA, B.E LAW etc while others come to learn a language or culture varying upon their preferences and priority. Still many students might prefer to study abroad with a motive of exploring different topics under the scaffold of diverse education systems (e.g. a student of English who goes to the United States to study American literature). Besides these a major attraction to studying abroad are professional courses like MBA, LAW, MTECH, MS, ME, B PHARMA etc comprising a major part of course options for students these days.


A popular reason to study abroad is the desire of many to acquire a degree that is worthy enough to land them in their desired job and field professional courses like MBA, LAW, MTECH, MS, ME, B PHARMA etc comprising a major part of course options for students these days.


A popular reason to study abroad is the desire of many to acquire a degree that is worthy enough to land them in their desired job and field backed up with a university name that would help them achieve their objectives and the desired career, hence the recent trend shows a considerable increase in more and more students wanting to study abroad.


Students opt for studying abroad as an effort or attempt to diversify their opportunities beyond their existing options provided by their home universities and colleges, besides if one comes to think of it studying abroad brings along with it many excitements and added benefits like a lot many prestigious universities passing out from which will surely land you into a outstanding job and will be a plethora of lucrative offers both good and worthy enough increasing once chances as well as options. It would also give one a back up of a reputable university, providing a great platform to take off accompanied with other benefits like scholarship program’s, exchange student courses, job opportunities to one of the worlds leading sectors a recruiters etc. In turn enhancing once chances towards a better future.


The financial aspect which happens to be one of the most important factors affecting the entire decision of studying abroad varies form course to course and with different universities and destination. its not always necessary that studying abroad would be more expensive then studying in once home university, it can happen either ways, hence one needs to go through the these basic details very thoroughly, and to assist students there are many financial aids available to help them pursue their dream career smoothly like education loans, exchange courses, scholarships, loan on easy terms, policies, early saving schemes by banks etc.




STEPS TO BE KEPT IN MIND:


Though requirements vary by institution, several steps must be taken in order to study abroad.


1) The very first step is to find out all the documents that are required for the travel and course purpose so that no legal problems arrive at the eleventh hour. Documents like permit, visa, passport, medical etc are very time consuming and are required for almost all study abroad courses hence one should enroll for these as early as possible keeping in mind the contingency period.


2) It may also be possible that the student would have to arrange his own accommodation and lodging arrangements. While some universities provide hostel facilities some might not, so student should be aware of these details before hands and do the necessary arrangements as he / she will be going to a completely new country on their own. The might have to face issues like language, contracts, payments, search, legalities etc creating problem for the student. Though as a remedy for this problem many online sites these days are available making the entire process a lot simpler.


3) Another essential point that should be kept in mind is that one should before hand have complete knowledge of the country they are venturing into to avoid any unnecessary complications. Hence one should study before about the language, culture, customs, locations, law and order situation, travel warning and alerts etc to avoid jolting differences in their journey to study abroad. Many universities also hold an orientation session for foreign students coming in their country.


4) Final point to be taken care of is to travel light i.e. One should not over pack or over burden themselves because this will just result into a problem in their persuasion of course and commencing their journey. One should only carry the necessary items and try to avoid all those commodities that they can do without.


Apart from studying in India, one can also explore career options abroad. After pursuing a course from a good institute abroad, one can land a job with either a good company or work on his/her own and earn name, fame and wealth. This option can give one high visibility and recognition and success in life with the right choices made.


About the Author
Jharna Bhatnagar writes on behalf of Shiksha.com. Shiksha.com is an education portal that connects education seeker with education provider. Shiksha.com has wide information over study abroad colleges, Professional colleges and courses. Its education forums enable its users to seek opinion of students, alumni and faculty of colleges and schools through College Groups and School Groups.

Legal Liability Relevant to Study Abroad

006, Dr. Sandi M. Smith, Director of Institutional Relations, Global Learning Semesters, Inc.

Legal liability is often used as a weapon to guard off the timid or defend the brave. However, many staff and faculty involved in study abroad programs do not have a notion of what legal liability is and how it should guide the design and maintenance of every study abroad program.

The following article is a layman’s introduction to complicated legal principles and precedence related to the administration of study abroad programs. Clearly, it is necessary to deliver a disclaimer… the information herein is not intended to substitute for competent legal representation. The following description of legal liability is for informational purposes only. The concepts discussed here can be helpful in guiding questions for your institutional and personal legal counsel.

Liability as a legal doctrine makes a person responsible for the damage and loss caused by his/her acts and omissions regardless of culpability (culpability is a measure of the degree to which a person can be held morally or legally responsible). However, for breach of contract or a tort, culpability may increase the measure of damages payable to compensate the plaintiff.

Sources of Liability

It does not matter our legal vocabulary and understanding, liability is something in which we are all obligated. Based on various established legal theories and precedence, duties and responsibilities are imposed on us and can carry an obligation of compliance.

The four main categories of legal liability relevant to the administration of study abroad are:


  • tort law



  • contract law



  • criminal law



  • federal law



  • immunities



  • professional regulation




Tort Law

Strict liability often applies to those engaged in hazardous or inherently dangerous ventures. The law imputes strict liability to situations it considers to be inherently dangerous. It discourages reckless behavior and needless loss by forcing potential defendants to take every possible precaution. It also has the effect of simplifying litigation and allowing the victim to become whole more quickly. According to strict liability, the plaintiff needs to prove only that the tort happened and that the defendant was responsible. Neither good faith, nor the fact that the defendant took all possible precautions are, valid defenses.

Tort law is focused on negligence for which damages may be awarded. Common tort liability is commonly measured by this question:

“Would a reasonable person have known or should have foreseen the risk or harm?”

To prove negligence, the injured party must prove,

1) the existence of a duty which the offender did not meet, and

2) that the effect of that specific failure resulted in injury to the plaintiff.

A few of the “duties” relevant to study abroad administration are:

Special relationship

In loco parentis is practiced to different levels at different types of campuses. For example, a church-related institution with strict behavioral codes invokes a higher standard of in loco parentis than a state-funded university. Yet, most institutions do not assume the responsibility of in loco parentis. However, it is commonly accepted among international educators that we are held to the expectations of “special relationship”, in which a duty of care is imposed because of special circumstances. Because there are more unknown factors involved in an international experience, there is a relative dependence of the student on the sponsoring institution. Thus, educators and administrators familiar with the expectation of treating college students as adults, must re-evaluate so me responsibilities when related to international programs.

Landlord relationship

Legal duties may be assumed of the property on which international programs are conducted. Although the program sponsor may not be the owner of the facilities, and it is not reasonable to expect that foreign landlords have the same standards as we do for students in the U.S., the sponsor assumes the duty to ensure reasonable standards. This includes duty to maintain the premises, provide adequate security, and warn of potential hazards.

Reasonable person standard

It is fair to assume that the courts will look to impose liability where sponsors/institutions, have not been prudent or demonstrated good faith in the care of those with whom they serve. However, the fundamental precept of negligence that the law will look to determine is “what a reasonable person under the circumstances would have done.”

Contract liability

Contractual understandings that may be written or oral. Unlike tort liability, contract liability is not imposed according to a duty, nor on the basis of what a reasonable person would do. Rather it is clearly an issue of “what does the contract say?” Thus, parties can control liability according to the agreement they come to. Obviously a written contract can be proven more substantially than a verbal contract. And reliance on a verbal promises outside of a written contract are not usually admissible.

Printed/media informational materials

Contracts can be created outside of a signed document. Colleges and universities have been found to be liable for representations in catalogues and other printed materials. Thus, pamphlets, flyers, brochures, letters and even websites are enforceable.

Signed agreements and contracts

Obvious reliance is placed on signed contracts and agreements. Weather it be pre-approval of transfer of credit or contracts for bus transportation, these contracts are meant to protect both parties. The more precise the terms of a contract, the m ore common understanding exists between parties. Most institutions have rules about who has the authority to sign contracts. Thus, when developing forms related to international study, it is important to have legal counsel and senior administration decide who has authority over specific types of signed agreements. Similarly, many institutions have policies and procedures about procurement contracts and thus, if an international program needs to sign contracts for transportation, housing, insurance, etc. there should be institutional policies for vetting and authorizing these contracts.

Federal Law

Federal law, in most cases, does not reach outside the U.S. Thus, returning to the special relationship precept,, international programs may technically be liable for maintaining standards of U.S. Federal Law as much as is reasonable. Furthermore, international programs will be under jurisdiction of the Laws of the host country. Some of the federal laws that have relevance to international programs are:

- civil rights

- FERPA

- Campus Security Act

- Drug Free Schools Act

Criminal Law

Obviously, those participating in and administering study abroad programs are subject to criminal law. The most important factor to realize with criminal law is that participants and administrators are subject to local and national law in the U.S. and ALSO subject to criminal laws of the host country and any country visited along the way. The U.S. Embassy in foreign countries is a good source or information for understanding relevant host country laws. OSAC, Overseas Security Advisory Council provides relevant information at: http://www.osac.gov/. Legal protections in the U.S. are not applicable to foreign countries. And the “I did not know” defense will not protect you. Some of the criminal laws relevant to study abroad are:

- vandalism

- assault and battery

- murder

- robbery

- drugs and alcohol

- political speech

- vehicle operations

Immunities

Immunity from prosecution is offered to those employed by a public institution and may apply to certain circumstances within the responsibilities of an international program. Sovereign Immunity established by the Eleventh Amendment of the U.S. Constitution basically bars suit in federal court against entries or agents acting in an official state capacity. However, this does not absolve institutions and employees of prosecution for negligence.

Program Sponsorship

It is commonly referred to as “deferred risk” when turning over students to a third-party program provider. Many institutions, realizing that they do not have the staff and resources to provide the best standard of care and expertise to study abroad programs have wisely deferred the risk of liability to a program sponsor. A deferred program sponsor may be another U.S. college or university operating international programs or an independent study abroad organization. Entering into an exchange agreement or direct enrollment agreement with a host institution does no defer risk of liability.

Legal principles for managing study abroad programs are similar to the standards used at home. Institutions are expected to “understand the nature of the program activity so that the educational benefits can be measured against the risk of harm.” (Weeks, pg. 3) Program sponsorship should be reserved for those with expertise to provide the expected duty of care, including:


  • faculty and administrators should possess adequate expertise in the site location (language, culture, laws, social standards, political status, geographic and climatic issues, crime and safety, emergency resources),



  • the distinct components of a program should be clearly articulated and assigned to responsible staff (faculty may be experts on the language or academic content, but not adequately trained to respond to student conduct issues, or housing safety, or emergency response),



  • responsible staff are sufficiently trained and accountable for the performance of their assigned duties,



  • adherence to safety standards when structuring the program, negotiating contracts, and facilitating student interactions,



  • responsiveness to incidents and emergencies


Another function of program sponsorship is eminent domain. What laws and jurisdiction apply to any prosecution that might occur?

Program Structure/Risk Management

Offering a course at an international location does not inherently create a higher risk. However, there are risks inherent to some international locations, and obviously to inexperienced travelers. Studying in a classroom or library in London is not inherently more risky than in the U.S., and filed experiences in archeology will inherently have more risk in the U.S. or abroad than studying in the library. Program structure and risk management should take into consideration some of the factors that do make study in another country more risky including:


  • language



  • laws and cultural customs related to alcohol consumption



  • traffic patterns and laws



  • social customs and interactions



  • safety standards of buildings, walkways, vehicles



  • public health and safety



  • travel-related and site-specific high risk activities




Resources:

Association of Safe International Road Travel: http://www.asirt.org.

Consular Information Sheets: http://trave.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1765.html

NAFSA Responsible Study Abroad:

http://www.nafsa.org/knowledge_community_network.sec/education_abroad_1/education_abroad2/practice_resources_12/health_safety/guidlines_for_health

SAFETI Clearinghouse: http://www.globaled.us/safeti/

IES Map: http://www.iesabroad.org/iesMap.do

U.S. State Dept. Travel Resources: http://www.state.gov/travelandbusiness/

Worldworx Travel Safety: http://wwww.worldworx.tv/safety/

Duty to Advise

A serious responsibility of any college or university is the function of academic advisement. More resources are being assigned to student advisement whether through faculty advisors and/or professionally trained advisors. With this increased recognition of a duty to advise, it is expected that colleges must provide the same level of informed and thorough advisement and orientation for students selecting international programs. The duty to advise encompasses choosing a program, academic structure, host country, eligibility requirements, cost, application procedures and deadlines, pre-departure orientation, conduct expectations, waiver of rights, credit transfer, financial aid, transition adjustment, and more.

Disclosure of known risks is expected. A duty of care includes:


  • known or expected political, social, terrorist risk



  • assessment of crime



  • road, traffic and vehicle conditions



  • health risks



  • cultural and legal differences



  • independent travel



  • past incidents of students and staff



  • local informants



  • encourage questions and provide responses




Student Misconduct

The duty to advise must clearly cover behavior and conduct expectations of students. Depending on program sponsorship, a student should know if he/she is accountable to home-campus conduct and disciplinary standards, or does the sponsoring agency supplant home-campus policies?

Furthermore, it must be clear as to the expectations for “off-campus” conduct while participating on an international program. What is considered “off-campus” while on a program abroad: is the program housing off-campus, are group meals considered off-campus, and is weekend travel considered off-campus? An example of a U.S. campus issue is alcohol consumption in the students’ residence. Some campus residences may have rules prohibiting alcohol consumption, yet public institutions would not expect to prohibit alcohol consumption in off-campus apartments (some private institutions do have general alcohol consumption policies and attempt to prohibit it at any time on and off campus). Thus, is sponsor-provided housing on an international program considered on or off-campus?

Due process is another issue that is sometimes blurred on a Study Abroad program. It is fairly uncommon to have qualified staff to investigate student misconduct allegations, and provide due process that is expected on the home campus. Thus, it must be clearly stated that students will either waive due process or experience an abbreviated version of due process in academic and/or conduct issues while abroad.

Students should also be informed if they will face home-campus disciplinary sanctions for conduct infractions while aboard. If there are exceptions to home-campus conduct (particularly drinking age), students should understand the policies as they apply to study abroad.

Students should be informed that they are subject to local and host country laws and should not assume that those laws are the same as U.S. laws (especially regarding public intoxication, traffic offenses, drug possession, use and sales, and sexual misconduct).

Federal Statues

The following federal statues can be applies to education abroad:

Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it unlawful to discriminate in employment based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it unlawful for programs that receive federal funding to discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972 make it unlawful for programs that receive federal funding to discriminate on the basis of sex.

Age discrimination in Employment Act of 1984 makes it unlawful to discriminate in employment based on age.

Campus Security Act of 1990 (Clery Act) does not contain any clear indication that it is intended to apply outside the U.S. boundaries, unless specifically a branch campus. However, in the duty to advise, it is expected that institution swill maintain data on incidents and disclose as appropriate.

Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 are tied to federal funding. So the argument can be made that if any federal financial aid might be used for a program, it is required that the same requirements apply.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA or Buckley Amendment) It is not possible to dictate the policies and procedures of foreign institutions, however, it is necessary to understand the foreign institution’s policies and procedures. FERPA standards of care in confidentiality management should be taken by U.S. representatives.

Rehabilitation Act and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is not intended for overseas institutions, however, most colleges continue to serve students where reasonable accommodations can be made. And some foreign host institutions now apply a similar standard of care in making reasonable accommodations for students and employees with disabilities.

Crisis Management

Every campus is expected to have a crisis response plan, and thus has an outline and structure that can be translated to overseas programs. It is reasonable to expect that any institution sponsoring international activities will make proactive efforts in crisis management and response planning.

Summary

Legal liability is created by the violation of duties imposed by the 1) common law, 2) statutory law (state and federal), and 3) contract law. And despite the complexities of the law there are some fundamental precepts that can protect an institution involved in study abroad:

1. assume there is a duty to act reasonably and foresee and limit the exposure to risks which are known or should be known, and act accordingly.

2. make certain that all substantive aspects of programs are fully described in writing and that program participants receive, and understand all of the materials.

3. prepare and use an assumption of risk document appropriately.

4. ensure that all participants possess adequate insurance for every reasonable contingency.

(Weeks, pg 67)



This document is a summary of legal liability related to study abroad programming. If legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.



Sources

Kaplan, William A. 1990. The Law of Higher Education. Jossey-Bass Publishers.

Weeks, Kent M. 1999. Managing Liability and Overseas Programs. College Legal Information, Inc. Nashville, TN.
About the Author
With a doctorate in Higher Education Administration, from Florida State University, Dr. Smith specializes in the internationalization of higher education and serves as a consultant to colleges and universities exploring ways to maximize study abroad. Sandi@GlobalSemesters.com

Student and Parent Guide: a Relevant Study Abroad Program


© Sandi M. Smith, Ed.D., Director of Institutional Relations, Global Learning Semesters
Despite the poor perceptions of the U.S. by other countries in the last decade, U.S. college students have continued to see the value in participating in an academic international experience while in college. It is not merely the realization that the competitive job market awards those with relevant and meaningful international experience, I believe this generation of “millennial” students are reaching out to bridge the misunderstandings between Americans and the increasingly globalized world.
Thus, it appears to be more important to this decade’s college students to choose a relevant and meaningful international experience that will not only enhance their resume’ and job prospects, but will also give the student a broad perspective of the world and opportunity to build relationships with citizens of the world.
It is important that students choose an appropriate program to get the most out of an international experience. Because there are a variety of program types, structures, locations, and requirements… it is worth the time and effort it takes to find a program that meets your individual academic and personal needs.
The “Big 3” reasons for choosing a study abroad program that is a good fit:
1. Academic: The program should be first and foremost relevant to the student’s academic and career goals. It is often that students choose a study abroad program according to a destination that they want to see. Ah, the countless times I have heard… “I have dreamed of seeing Paris since I was a little girl. I have to study abroad in Paris.” And yet, this student did not take any French language classes in either High School or College before requesting a semester abroad in Paris. Just because a students wants to see or live in a particular location, does not establish a compelling academic justification for study abroad. Study abroad should be chosen to enhance academic goals. As an example… It is not often that a business major can show a compelling reason to study abroad in Florence, Italy. Although there could be some relevance in studying the business of the art industry and art tourism, however, most of the study abroad programs in Florence are really only relevant for art, history, and humanities majors. A general business course taught in English by an Italian art institute is not a compelling reason for a business major to study abroad in Florence. Thus, if a student “just wants to experience Florence, Italy”, he/she should go there on vacation, but should not choose this as a destination to spend a summer or semester studying abroad. There are dozens of much more relevant destinations and programs for a business major.
2. Financial: A relevant international academic experience is a valuable investment in a student’s education and career. However, the same care and attention that goes into choosing a college, should go into choosing a relevant international experience. Study Abroad should not be approached as “a semester away from college” or “a chance to see the world”. There are less expensive ways to travel and take time off from college than paying for a semester of study abroad. Besides… a student not really interested in making a serious academic effort while on study abroad is a safety and academic hazard to other students on the program. Any study abroad program should be pre-approved by the student’s academic advisor for transfer of credit into the student’s graduation requirements.
3. Student Characteristics: As a third consideration in choosing a study abroad program (and it should be in the above order of priorities), really understanding the student characteristics is crucial in finding the most relevant and meaningful program. There is NO one perfect study abroad program. There are different programs designed for different student experiences and different student outcomes. Thus, it is worth the time and effort put into figuring out individual student characteristics before hastily choosing a particular study abroad program.
Programs have distinctive characteristics, like students, and thus it is important to find the right “match” between the student and the program. Your friend, or sister, or teacher may have participated in a program that was “absolutely great” for them, but may not be a good fit for you. Thus, a glowing recommendation from someone who went on a program is not necessarily the most appropriate approach to choosing a program.
About the Author
With a doctorate in Higher Education Administration, from Florida State University, Dr. Sandi specializes in the internationalization of higher education and provides consulting services to colleges and universities exploring ways to initiate, enhance and/or maximize study abroad.
Director of Institutional Relations, Global Learning Semesters

Top Five Destinations For Study Abroad


Author: Wayne Hemrick
In today's tough job market, many college students are looking for ways to improve their chances of landing a great job. One of those ways can include time spent in a foreign country. Because commerce is global, a student who has any type of overseas living and studying experience tends to stand out over those who do not. Because of this, earning college and university credits at a foreign college or university is one way that students satisfy this growing employment trend. If you are considering this option, you might be wondering where you should study. The top five destinations for study abroad include college in Australia, New Zealand, China, Korea and Italy.

Consider study abroad in Australia. Here you can earn college credits over the course of a semester, a summer or year abroad. Students can also earn their entire bachelors or masters degrees abroad if they so choose.

When looking at options for study abroad, New Zealand offers several great choices. The University of Auckland, located in New Zealand's largest city, remains a popular study destination for students. Although the university is in an urban setting, you are still very close to beaches, mountains and places to hike and bike. Another benefit that comes from spending time in New Zealand is that English is the native language, and your classes will be taught in English, making the transition to study in a foreign country much easier.

If you want experience in an Asian country, think about opportunities for study abroad in China or study abroad in Korea. Students see the value of studying at a Chinese university because so many people in the world speak Mandarin Chinese, so having the opportunity to learn the language and be immersed in the culture offer benefits for after school, when you are seeking employment. Many programs do not have any language requirements. Students from the United States and Canada come to study abroad in Korea because universities there are known for their excellence in communication and information technology.

Students also choose to study in Europe. Many find that study abroad in Italy works well for them. If you want to learn in depth, you can choose to take language courses and local culture classes, although you will find that at least some or all of the courses you take will be taught in English when you study abroad. Italy offers great food and people with friendly personalities. You can enjoy world-class art as well when studying in Italy.

No matter where you choose to study abroad, you will pick up educational, linguistic and cultural benefits that can be used on the job.
About the Author
Wayne Hemrick writes about--study abroad in australia and study abroad new zealand.

Study Abroad: Why Do It?


Author: Wayne Hemrick
College is not only a time to study your chosen field, be on your own, and learn a myriad of life lessons, but it is also a time to find yourself. There may be no better way to do just this than to study abroad. From study abroad Asia, to study abroad Australia, from study abroad New Zealand to study abroad Europe, studying overseas is one of the best ways to expand your horizons.

Studying abroad offers many advantages. Among them are:

A Great Way to Learn a New Language: Many people who are fluent in other languages will tell you that they got this way by immersing themselves in another culture. If you want to become fluent in Spanish, for instance, study abroad Europe, more specifically Spain, is an ideal choice. It's amazing how fast you can learn a language when everyone around you speaks it.

A Great Way to See the World: Let's face it, you are not always going to have the time and opportunity to travel. From jobs to kids and all the other responsibilities awaiting you later in life, traveling will fall by the wayside. College, however, is an ideal time to see the world. Whether you study abroad in New Zealand, Asia, or anywhere else, you will get to see a part of the world you might never have a chance to experience again.

A Great Way to Learn Outside the Classroom: Studying abroad gives you a chance to learn about things you might not otherwise be exposed to. It gives you an opportunity to meet challenges and conquer weaknesses while learning new strengths. It also gives you a chance to find new interests. Studying abroad in Europe, for instance, may spark an interest in architecture that you never knew you had.

A Great Way to Open Doors: Studying abroad is not something the typical students does; many are content to stay stateside for their entire educational experience. This automatically sets those who do study abroad apart from the pack. No matter where you choose - study abroad New Zealand or study abroad Australia - studying abroad shows employers that you are daring. It also allows you to establish international connections, something that is essential as our planet becomes more and more globalized.

A Great Way to Learn Your Ancestry: Studying abroad is also a great way to learn about your heritage. By studying in the homeland of your ancestors, you can learn more about your family, your heritage, and, of course, yourself.
About the Author
In this article Wayne Hemrick writes about study abroad asia

Europe offers a comfortable situation for students who are looking for a Western location for their study abroad experience


Author: Wayne Hemrick
Studying abroad - no matter where you go - is an exciting, fulfilling, and unique opportunity. It allows you to experience new cultures and new people while simultaneously gaining a new appreciation of yourself and your native country.

Studying abroad in Europe combines all the above with a Western location, providing many students with a sense of familiarity and well-known comforts.

In fact, Europe is among the most common areas for American students to go for study abroad programs. The reasons for this are many:

Studying Abroad in Europe is Affordable: Study abroad programs are not limited to people with money to burn or parents who are wealthy. In fact, to study in Europe, students need not be rich at all: the programs are designed with affordability in mind. Many programs offer financial aid, support programs, and scholarships. These programs are designed so that those who want to study abroad can do so.

Studying Abroad in Europe Requires no Prior Language Skills: To study in Europe you don't need to be fluent in another language because many courses are taught in English. While cultural classes and, sometimes, foreign language classes are encouraged, you don't need to be fluent, semi-fluent, or even a little bit fluent in another language to study in Europe. You are welcome to apply to most study abroad programs regardless of your language background or skills.

Studying Abroad in Europe Dials Down the Culture Shock: Anytime you leave your homeland you can experience a bit of culture shock, the surprise that comes when experiencing a different way of living. However, when you study in Europe, the culture shock is not as extreme as it may be if you were to visit a different part of the world. This makes the study in Europe concept particularly appealing to those terrified of being an obvious fish out of water.

Studying Abroad in Europe Allows for Lots of Travel: One of the great things about Europe is the close proximity of many countries: it is literally a place you can backpack through. This gives students who choose to study in Europe the opportunity to see a great many countries in not much time.

Studying Abroad in Europe Opens up Job Opportunities: Not only does studying abroad look great on a resume and provide you with invaluable experience, but it also opens up job opportunities overseas. The more people you know, the more likely you are to land the job of your dreams.
About the Author
In this article Wayne Hemrick writes about study abroad programs
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