Why should I study abroad?
Getting an education is more than getting a degree. It is knowing, understanding, and contributing to your world, a world of increasing complexity and interdependence. The U.S. Department of Commerce estimates that, on an economy-wide basis, 19,100 jobs are created for every billion dollars of exports. U.S. exports account for over 40 percent of the growth in the U.S. GNP over the last four years, and international activities account for roughly one-third of all U.S. corporate profits. Surprising to many Americans, these numbers reflect our global interdependence.
To succeed in this interdependent world, it is critical that students gain an informed perspective about it. Few things can provide that perspective like a study abroad experience. Study abroad offers you the chance to live in and come to know another culture rather than just read about or visit it. In addition, study abroad provides you with the chance to understand, evaluate, and appreciate your own culture and values.
How long should I plan to stay?
How long you stay really depends on what goals you have for your experience and on what kind of program you choose. The longer you stay, the more complete and beneficial your cultural and academic immersion will be. Programs vary in length, from year to semester to summer to less than one month programs! When making your choice of programs, consider the benefits and drawbacks of each kind of program.
Whatever kind of overseas experience you choose, it will prove invaluable to you in both your personal and professional growth. In this increasingly interdependent world, those students who graduate with some first-hand understanding of different cultures find themselves at a distinct advantage in the business and academic worlds, in addition to having had an experience which they will never forget. Whatever path you decide to pursue, please keep us posted at the Study Abroad Program Office. Your insights into various overseas options are our most valuable resources, and we can pass along your information to other students if you'll let us know your thoughts. Finally, we wish you luck in your efforts!
Will the courses that I take abroad count toward the International and Cultural Diversity (ICD) requirement on my degree plan?
Typically, yes. Study abroad courses that are either (1) Texas A&M-faculty-led permanent courses, (2) courses offered through another institution that have prior approval by the student's college, or (3) Reciprocal Educational Exchange Programs (REEP) are coded as study abroad in SIMS and may be used to meet this requirement. This was approved in 2003 by the Faculty Senate and President. Please be aware that 485 and 489 courses that are taught on faculty-led programs are not automatically approved to count for the IDC requirement. However, there is currently a process for faculty to allow 489 courses to meet the ICD requirement. Please check with the faculty leader or program liaison in Study Abroad to determine if the 489 course will qualify to meet this requirement. For more details, please visit here.
Will I need to know the language there?
It is always to a student's advantage to know as much of the native language as possible; however, it is not always a requirement. The Texas A&M language programs do require two prior semesters (i.e.., SPAN 101 & SPAN 102) of the language to be eligible to attend their programs. Most of the other Texas A&M group programs do not require knowledge of the language.
The Reciprocal Exchange programs are an exception. Students who go on reciprocal exchanges are expected to be fluent in the language of the host country. Of course, this rule does not apply for our exchange programs in countries whose native language is English.
Why does it cost more than to stay in College Station to take the same courses?
For the Texas A&M programs, students will be doing an incredible amount of traveling and touring (definitely more than the normal student here in B/CS). Also, the cost of living is higher in many foreign destinations, so that must be taken into account. Adding to that the housing accommodations, insurance, guest speakers, entrance fees, food, etc., the cost will reflect the experience that the student will get. All in all, be reassured that all aspects of the program are programmed to try to give the you the most intense experience for your money. That means that all aspects have been researched for the best deals, including group pricing when available. Please keep in mind that financial aid can be used for these programs, along with many available scholarships, making the cost much more reasonable.
When should I start planning for my trip?
The earlier you begin planning, the better. If you allow about a year, you will have plenty of time to take care of all the logistical concerns and also to improve your background in the host language and culture. It takes time for applications to be processed, for travel arrangements to go through, and for you to prepare yourself and your finances.
Some semester and most year programs are directed toward students in their junior years. However, that does not mean that you should be discouraged from studying abroad at a different time. If you want to study abroad early in your academic career, you might try one of the Texas A&M summer programs or semester programs since they provide a relatively structured study and living environment and generally offer credits for introductory-level courses. If you want to study abroad outside of Texas A&M programs in your senior year, please consult the Residence Requirement section in your Texas A&M Undergraduate Catalog and your academic counselor to see how these requirements apply to you. You should find out this information as early as you can - your freshman or sophomore year, if possible - so that you can arrange your schedule.
Will studying abroad delay my graduation?
Not necessarily, particularly if you plan far enough in advance. Often students do end up taking an extra semester to graduate, but the benefits of studying abroad far outweigh any disadvantages of staying in school an extra semester. Your study abroad experience will be meaningful on many different levels - academic, professional, and personal - and you can use the development you gain to your advantage when you graduate.
Should I carry a purse/backpack?
If you carry a purse or backpack, put one arm and your head through the strap so that it hangs across your body and is not easily snatched.
However, crooks sometimes use scissors to cut the strap and take it off you, so be careful. If carry a backpack on your back, be sure to not carry essential or valuable items in it since people can walk behind you and unzip it or cut through it.
