Studying Abroad – Where to go
Let’s look at some of the more popular options for studying abroad. According to a new report released by the Institute of International Education, the most popular options for studying abroad are England and Italy, as they have been for a number of years. Let’s take a look at the top 5 destinations and discuss why students pick them above all of the other options.
1. England
If you want to study abroad but are concerned about the cultural and language barriers, then choosing to study in an English speaking country is a good move. While you may sacrifice something by way of exploring the unknown, you will make up for it through an easy transition. And as far as the English speaking countries outside of America go, England might be the most familiar to most Americans. The educational opportunities are top-notch as is the culture and entertainment. As far as choices, you have many of them in England including some very well-known universities like Oxford and Cambridge. And who hasn’t heard of Stonehenge? England has the greatest number of International students in the world. If you want a chance to immerse yourself in a vibrant culture while still maintaining the comfort of being able to speak your native language, it seems like England is a great place to consider, as many before you have decided on England over anywhere else in the world.
2. Italy
If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous and are willing to overcome certain language barriers, Italy is next in line. The art, architecture, and of course the food – if you are looking for a cultural experience it is going to be tough to beat Italy. Art majors can’t do any better than Michelangelo and DaVinci. And even if you’re more familiar with Versace and Ferrari than Christopher Columbus, you will find what you are looking for in Italy as the shopping and sight-seeing can keep you occupied on during your time off from class for much longer than the semester abroad that you plan to spend there.
3. Spain
Habla Espanol? If not, that’s okay. If you feel like exploring Barcelona or Madrid you will find many English speaking natives. If you are a bit more adventurous try Bilbao where you will find a newly built Guggenheim, or some of the other less traveled destinations and practice your Spanish while taking in the beautiful weather and enjoy the sports, even when that entails being chased around by some charging bulls – just make sure you’re in good shape before you head overseas…
4. France
If you are looking for a cultural experience during your semester or year abroad and Italy isn’t for you, try checking out France. The Louvre, the Eifel Tower, the wine and cheese… Paris isn’t the only city in France either. If you are adventurous try heading down South for a different type of experience. Go wine tasting in Bourdeaux and check out the beaches in Nice. If you are fast-moving, prepare to relax – the pace is much slower, so sit back, grab a nice vintage, and just enjoy the scenery, when you’re not in class of course…
5. China
You must have an adventurous side if you are thinking about heading off to China for study abroad. The distance, the language, and the culture are just a few of the reasons why many students hesitate to head off to the Far East, but if you make it there you will find a world of growth opportunities that you will not be able to find almost anywhere else. If you are looking to focus on a top level education blended with outdoor adventure, and the ability to practically choose your climate, you have found your destination. Go hike Mt. Everest and then settle into your classes where you will be exposed to some of the finest business and math classes in the world.