Why You Should Study Abroad
Written by Stevie Loop
Kathleen Constanza, senior journalism major, studied abroad in Costa Rica.
Have you always wanted to travel the world but just feel it isn’t an affordable option while you’re in college? Do you see flyers for programs that sound great, but you always miss the information meetings? There is no better time to see the world than now and the study abroad fair is coming up on February 28th. Plus you earn class credit and might even spend less money than you would for a semester at Columbia.
Why You Should Study Abroad
- Creative, Amazing Experience
“Being in a new place tweaks your perspective and stays with you”, says Kathleen Costanza, a senior journalism student, who studied in Costa Rica for a semester through AIFS. “I have more experiences to pull from when I’m writing. I’m sure my trip manifests itself in ways I don’t even notice when being creative and in my journalism.” - Leg-Up in the Job Market
Studying abroad gives you an edge when applying for jobs. Catrina DeBoard, Associate Director of the Study Abroad Office, explained that traveling and studying in a different country shows a potential employer you can adapt to unfamiliar situations and surroundings. - Surprisingly Affordable
DeBord went onto to debunk some of the common reasons people think they can’t study abroad. “The cost of study abroad is the number one perceived barrier,” she said. However, these programs aren’t always expensive; in some locations you’ll even save tuition money. She also explained that her office assures that students receive credit for any classes taken abroad.
What Are My Options?
There are three main options for studying abroad at Columbia.
- Faculty led: Columbia faculty teach you in exciting, international destinations
- Exchange programs: Partner schools across the world work with Columbia to ensure an amazing study-abroad experience in a foreign land.
- Independent programs: Use an external organization to mediate your travel experience and study in any place in the world you can want, as long as it’s approved by Columbia.
Get Started Now
The study abroad office recently moved and is now conveniently located in the Learning Studio, on the first floor of 618 S. Michigan. Catrina DeBord is a great person to talk to about your potential experience abroad, but if you’re looking to study something specific to your major ask your faculty advisor for advice first.
The study abroad fair is Thursday February 28, 2013 from 11am-2pm in Stage Two, 618 S. Michigan Ave. This will be a great chance to talk to representatives from all of the study abroad options as well as students that have studied abroad.
