Choosing which study abroad program is right for you is often a very hard decision for students. Nearly all universities around the country offer various study abroad programs depending on your course of study. Many students take advantage of these amazing programs without exploring external study abroad programs. Often, students believe that class credits will not transfer to their home university, discouraging them from exploring the option of an external study abroad. Although I can’t make any promises, you would be surprised at how many universities are willing to work with you to transfer credits if you find a program not associated with your home campus. And remember, it never hurts to ask!
At my university, my major offers a fall, spring and summer study abroad program in London, England. However, before making the decision to study abroad through this program, I wanted to explore other study abroad options as well. I was hesitant about spending an entire semester in London because I had never traveled to Europe before and was afraid the program would limit my ability to travel. There are certainly many positives about choosing a program centralized in one place, but I was hoping to visit a multitude of cities and countries while I was across the pond.
The University of Virginia offers a study abroad program called Semester at Sea, which numerous family friends had recommended to me. I began researching the program and exploring the website to find out what Semester at Sea was all about. I was sold after learning that I would have the ability to visit at least 10 countries and 11 cities in just 66 days abroad. As a student, your home becomes a ship, which travels from country to country porting every few days in a new country. Classes are conducted while “at sea” on board the ship in rooms that have been renovated into classrooms. This program is extremely unique, allowing students to visit a vast amount of countries in a small period of time, unlike most study abroad programs that are focused in one place.
In the 66 days I spent abroad with Semester at Sea, I visited England, Morocco, Turkey, Greece, Malta, Italy, Crete, France, Spain and Portugal. I was also able to visit numerous cities in each of these countries. My experience through the Semester at Sea study abroad program was unforgettable and truly life changing. Of the 600 students, I was one of two students from my particular university, which granted me the opportunity to meet people and make friends from all over the country and even the world. I don’t believe I would’ve had the same opportunities if I had chosen to study abroad with a program through my university.
However, it is important to keep in mind, both internal and external study abroad programs have positive and negative elements. So, when it comes time for you to consider the option of studying abroad, I strongly encourage you to explore external study abroad programs, as well as internal programs, to ensure you pick the best program for you! Also, don’t forget to seek help from your university’s study abroad office if you ever have any questions or need advice!