Why Study Abroad?

To Become More Culturally Competent:

 "I have learned not to make judgements about another culture, thinking things are "good", "bad", "right", "wrong" etc., when in fact, things are just different. While studying abroad I attended local festivals, visited historical landmarks, dined on the local cuisine, listened to my host country's popular music, and went about my daily activities just as the locals did."

      - Heidi Church, USAC, Torino, Italy Alumni 2008

1. Participate in festivities and attend local markets.
2. Learn how other cultures interact with one another.
3. Experience new and delicious food.
4. Use new forms of transportation, travel as the locals do!
5. Develop knowledge of different religions.
6. Participate in local sports or attend national sporting events.
7. Gain a new perspective from the other side of the world. 

To Explore the World:

"I learned quickly how to read a subway map! Firsthand travel gave me a better feel for the scale of European geography, which has implications for all areas of life, culture, and history."

      - IP Aix-en-Provence 2003-04 Alumni

1. Travel around your new country and visit neighboring countries as well.
2. Explore historic monuments that will take your breath away.
3. Simply enjoy the experience of being "lost" and take in the sites.

To Acquire or Develop a Foreign Language:

"Learning to adjust to another culture was an extremely important skill to learn. I'm happy I got that opportunity"

      - USAC Santiago, Chile Fall 2010 Alumni 

1. Many countries available to students are non – English speaking, presenting the opportunity to learn a new language.
2. Learn to ask for directions, shop in local venues and simply express your gratitude to locals in a foreign language.
3. Many programs have options for homestays with local families or shared housing with other international students.
4. Really advance your foreign language skills by taking courses in that language! 
5. Participate in conversation hours with students native to where you are studying.

TO HAVE THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME!