What is study abroad?

To this day, when I tell people I "studied abroad," I get asked what that means.

Study abroad is a student exchange program wherein universities send students to other universities or opportunities through consortiums and/or third party providers. Study abroad sessions vary in time frame, country (or countries) and focus. There are a myriad of options available, and if a student makes the decision to study abroad, it all depends how they want to pursue it AND what options are available through their university. 

The study abroad movement is rooted in missionary and peace movements that began in the late 1800’s. It wasn’t until the Institute of International Education, which formed in 1919, began organizing formal efforts to encourage, make financially accessible and track opportunities for students and researchers. 

Each year, studying abroad is becoming increasingly popular and accessible, but only a fraction of enrolled students decide to commit to a program. 

Studying abroad is an excellent way for students to experience studying in another country- a new environment with opportunities to meet new folks, gain understanding and appreciation of new cultures and learn different perspectives in and out of the classroom. 

HOWEVER…These programs must rely less on “selling” the exotic Other and focus on creating accessibility to community-integrated courses, internships and volunteer opportunities. This includes highlighting students’ interests within the host country towards their scholarly and cultural initiatives for overall meaningful exchanges.

I'll be talking more about how to match students with programs tomorrow!

Image description: Allison and Anna-Riikka in front of the beach at Etretat coast in Normandy, France.