Are you thinking about which university is right for you? Does a period spent living abroad interest you? If so, consider that many universities offer a sandwich year – a year spent either working in an industry related to your degree or studying at a foreign university. In most cases it means extending your time as an undergraduate, but the benefits should outweigh the extra time spent in education.
If you’re looking to study a foreign language, then it’s a given that you will be spending some time in a country that speaks your chosen language – possibly two if you decide on a joint honours degree. It doesn’t have to be the closest country either, although you might want that; the adventurous could find themselves studying Spanish in Colombia or in French speaking Canada practicing their pronunciation.
Other disciplines are less obvious but some universities offer placements in the USA as well as closer to home. If you’re interested, look at the course description and make a point to ask about it at open days.
There are a few things to consider when thinking about taking a year in industry of studying abroad – if you rush in, you won’t get the full benefit. These three points should get you thinking, but it’s not a definitive list.
1. Cost.
Depending on where you go, various grants are available and you should still get your student loan BUT, setting up in a new place does cost money as do visas and travel to and from (as well as around – you’ll want to explore!) your destination. If you work part time now and want to continue abroad it might be harder for you to find a part-time job to substitute it and you need to think about this potentially lower income.
2. Your goals.
Yes, Barcelona is a fantastic city with a huge party life – but are you looking to learn the language or learn the pricings of each bar? Every university has a student scene that will make you feel welcome and put on events and student nights, would it be better to find somewhere that has a lower number of English speakers, to make sure you test your language skills?
3. Your expectations.
Culture shock can affect everyone differently, if you know more about what to expect then you’ll be prepared if and when it kicks in. Getting over it can be as simple as having a long awaited cup of tea or it could be a case of making a new friend.
From the comfort of your sofa, the experience could seem nerve racking and terrifying or you might already be champing at the bit. Just remember that you won’t be alone and that you really do get out what you put in. A little bit of preparation can go a long way.