Choosing the Study Abroad Program that is Right for You

There are many different types of study abroad programs, so you will need to consider carefully your goals and needs to determine which program is right for you. Seattle Pacific offers various types of programs, from full immersion in a foreign university to attendance at a center for US college students, where students are taught by foreign faculty either in English or in the language of the host country. Study abroad programs are offered in large cities, small towns, and in the countryside. A variety of living arrangements is possible, including homestays, dormitories, or apartments (with either other Americans or foreign students). Sometimes your housing will be on the campus, sometimes it will be across town and you will need to commute on public transportation. On some programs you will find that the "campus" is a collection of buildings in the center of the city. In most cases you should expect that your lifestyle and living arrangements will be different from your day-to-day existence at a small liberal arts university in a major metropolitan area of the Pacific Northwest.

Consider the following carefully when deciding on a study abroad program:

• Why do you want to study abroad? What are your main goals?
• How does study abroad fit into your academic experience at Seattle Pacific?
• What do you hope to learn during your experience?
• Do you plan to start learning a foreign language before or during your study abroad experience?
• Do you have certain requirements for your major, your minor, or any Exploratory Curriculum requirements you need to fulfill while abroad?
• Is it possible to fulfill these requirements overseas?
• Do you prefer a structured learning style or one that is more independent?
• Do you prefer to study with other US students while abroad, or do you prefer to be in classes with students from your host country?
• Do you want instruction to take place in English or in a foreign language?
• Do you prefer to live with a local host family, in a residence hall, or in an apartment?
• Do you want to live with other Americans, or with host nationals?
• Do you want to cook for yourself while you are abroad or do you prefer having a meal plan?
• Would you like to live in a small town or a big city?
• Do you mind commuting on public transportation to class every day?
• What are some of the barriers you might encounter while studying abroad?
• Is it important for you to be in a country where the attitude toward Americans or foreigners is generally very friendly, or are you willing to go to a destination where you may encounter some xenophobia or anti-Americanism?
• Do you have special needs such as a physical or mental health condition, or a learning disability for which you may need special support services while abroad?
• Have you considered the health and safety risks of various study abroad destinations?
• Are you willing to accept the risks inherent in traveling and living overseas?
• How important is internet and email access to you while you are abroad?

Student Academic Services strongly encourages you to speak with one of the designated undergraduate academic counselors and your faculty advisor when you are deciding on a program. Additionally, you are encouraged to contact former study abroad students to hear first-hand about study abroad on a particular program. Faculty who have led study abroad trips are also excellent resources for the kind of anecdotal information that can help you decide whether or not a particular program or studying abroad in general is right for you.

If you plan carefully and take time to consider your needs and requirements, you will have a rewarding study abroad experience!

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