Online Degree World

By Ashley Brooks

Studying abroad is one of the most enjoyable parts of a college career.  If you have the opportunity to do so, you should eagerly take it.  Studying abroad allows for a number of different experiences, and the opportunity to live in a different country without searching for an overseas job or being forced to learn a new language.  Most locations for studying abroad are situated within areas in which English is a common language, or the community has a basic understanding of English. 

Location, Location, Location

Whether you decide to study in Brazil or France, each location has its own specific motivational pull.  Many students who have already traveled to Europe prefer different types of locations such as South America or China, while students who have never left the country typically vie for locations in Europe.  Either continent presents a set of new encounters which cannot be experienced within your home community.

Culture

Every culture has its own mesh of customs and beliefs which is crucial towards grasping a firm understanding of foreigners.  We tend to believe that our views are right in the world, without researching into other cultures further; however, actually living in a different community allows you to be face-to-face with a culture different from your own and grow through this proximity.

Languages

Learning new languages is an arduous task, yet rewarding overall.  Nothing is more impressive than becoming a polyglot, even if you may only know bits and pieces of various languages.  Living in a foreign community for a few months is the best way to learn a new language.  It almost forces you to become intermeshed within the society, and in order to live a bit easier, you must learn part of the language.  However, not every study abroad location will force you to learn a different language; it is only recommended that you take this opportunity to immerse yourself within the culture.

History

The United States is a relatively young country in the scheme of global locations, and this becomes increasingly clear as you travel to European and Asian countries, where the cities are rich with the culture from hundreds and thousands of years past.  The United States cannot begin to compare to the Wall of China or the architecture of ancient Rome.  It is an amazing experience to live in a region where great moments in history have taken place and are remembered as such for decades. 

Different Perceptions

We all know that the United States and every country for that matter, has its own version of historic events.  Studying abroad, and actually living in a different culture, allows you as a student to achieve full accounts of history from a different perspective.  Not only that, but it also allows you to witness in what ways their world views differ from our own.  We know that many countries do not agree with many of our actions in the Middle East, but it is much more interesting to view first-hand what the country’s nationals are saying about various situations.  Additionally, it is amazing to travel to another country and take note of how much global politics dominate international affairs, and additionally realize how deceptively small a role the United States plays.  This experience in general is very eye-opening and necessary for the younger generation who no longer question historic events and world perceptions.

Studying abroad is truly an experience in which you can grow immensely within the span of a few months, as well as increase your knowledge of the world and global affairs.  This is one of the life-altering moments in college, and is highly recommended for any college student or even graduate student. 

By Ashley Brooks

Some of us have our whole lives planned out from the moment we’re able to think for ourselves while others are happy to go with the flow. And then there are the in-betweens, the ones who are undecided even after they’ve made a decision. Some of the choices we make in life have consequences beyond the immediate, consequences that have the potential to affect us both positively and adversely. Choosing a college major is one such major decision that we have to think over when we’re contemplating a degree, and in case we opt for something that we don’t like, it’s time for a change. There are certain things that you should keep in mind when you’re considering a change in your major, such as:

•    Try and choose a new major that’s a little related to the one you’re in now so that you can transfer any credits that you’ve earned.

•    Before you settle on a new major, take a few classes in the subject and see if you like it before you commit to it. As I said, you cannot keep changing majors as and when you like it. 

•    Talk with your college adviser to see if you’re making the right decision or if you need help in making a choice.

•    Look at your job prospects when choosing a major. You may have an affinity for a particular subject but it may not be enough to land you a good job that pays well. What with the recession and the way the economy is, you’re better off choosing a field where jobs are always going to be available.

•    Talk to the seniors in your preferred choice and find out what the coursework entails and how good your teachers are.

•    If you’re hesitant about changing your major, remember that it is something that has to be done if you find your current major uninteresting, difficult, or just not right for you. College is all about choosing the courses you’re comfortable with and going on to graduate with great grades.

•    Think long and hard before you fill in that application form and submit it to the concerned personnel so that you don’t end up regretting the decision you’ve made and feel the need to change majors again.