Studying abroad is an experience everyone should try to do throughout your four years in college. I knew that even before coming to Greece. But now that I am actually 3 weeks into my study abroad program, everyday is a constant confirmation that I have made the right choice of leaving my wonderful Bentley home for a semester.
Bentley taught me a lot of things before going abroad but I have also learned so much just the little time I have been here. I wish what I have learned so far was more tangible to put into words but all I can say is:
Every abroad experience enlightens you as a person to the different things the world has to offer. I have met so many amazing people with such different cultures, backgrounds, values and experiences. You really do get so comfortable in your everyday life that you sometimes forget that there is a whole world out there with breathtaking lessons just waiting to be learned.
Knowing what I know now and what Bentley has to offer to prepare you, here are three tips:
1. It’s never too early to start researching where you want to go BUT also be flexible. Ever since Freshman year I had a vision that I was going to go to Santiago, Chile for my study abroad experience. But after researching a lot and seeing that their academic year was a lot different, the dates didn’t really match up well for me. It’s always important to have an open mind about the programs. We are lucky to go to a school where there are SO many programs offered everywhere around the world – so don’t limit yourself to just one!
2. Research the Study abroad program very well (including the school):
Even though you are probably excited about traveling and seeing a lot of different places you have to remember that there’s a “study” in “study abroad”.
Look into: The courses they offer, how big the campus is, what are the dining options, extracurricular activities, the academic set up of classes, and so on. Every last detail counts!
3. Talk to other people who have gone abroad and hear about their experiences! Obviously you probably won’t have the exact same experience as them, but most of the time people who have experienced it can give you a better look at certain details about a program. I had a lot of friends that had gone to Greece prior to me arriving and they gave me some amazing tips on where to go and how to handle certain differences. Plus people LOVE talking about their abroad experience! Take advantage of that.
I hope some of these tips helped a little! I also wanted to share a few pictures of Greece to get you excited about your abroad experience, whether it’s in 4 years or next year!