Summer study abroad programs have the potential to be life altering for those who embark on the adventure. No matter what your major, spending a summer studying abroad in another country may increase your awareness and understanding of the world around you. Many college students who participate in study abroad programs make friendships that last throughout their lives, and they are often able to connect not just with those in the country they visit, but also with others from around the world who are involved in the same program. If you normally work over the summer, you may find a summer internship program or be able to incorporate a work component as part of your summer study abroad experience.
Sometimes it can be difficult to take part in a study abroad program. You may have a major that seems difficult to pursue in another country, or you may worry that time abroad will delay your graduation date. Summer abroad programs may be perfect for anyone who might not easily get away during the school year. During the summer months, you may more easily see the world around you while still remaining on track with your schooling.
Two of our most popular types of summer study abroad programs are:
Types of Summer Study Abroad Programs
There are many different types of summer study abroad programs. You may choose to go the traditional route and spend your summer months taking classes at a university. Other programs may allow students to get hands-on experience outside of the classroom. For instance, if you’re planning to apply to medical school after college, you may want to spend some time volunteering with a local organization that is sponsored by a study abroad program. If you’re an acting major, you might want to participate in a summer theater program. No matter what your academic focus is, you may find a summer study abroad program that will enhance your academic career.
The Benefits of Summer Study Abroad Programs
There are many potential benefits to studying abroad for the summer. If you travel to a country with a different first language than your own, you may immerse yourself in the native language for several months. Knowing another language may be helpful when applying for a job, and many people say that learning a language through immersion is the best way to make it stick. Of course, there are other potential benefits to summer study abroad programs as well. Many individuals who spend time in another country are able to understand themselves and the world around them better. This broadened understanding may have the potential to aid you in your future career. Sometimes it takes stepping outside what you know for a summer for you to really form your own worldview, and you may take this increased understanding to the workplace.
Best Summer Study Abroad Programs for College Students
If you’ve decided that a summer program is right for you, you may be unsure where to begin. The best summer study abroad programs are usually dependent upon what the participant is interested in. Have you always wanted to rough it in the wilderness? Do you want to roam through an urban landscape? Are you excited by the idea of spending time in the countryside? Take some time to consider what drives you. Maybe you have a bucket list that includes a far off destination you want to see before you die. Why not go this summer? More often than not, those who attend international summer programs that reflect their personal interests get the most satisfaction from the experience. If you're not able to go for several months, some summer study abroad programs are offered for shorter time frames that might allow you to go for just one month or a few weeks.
Any location can be the right location, once you’ve decided what you’re looking for in a summer study abroad program. If you’re majoring in husbandry, you might be interested in spending some time on a farm, in such locations as Ireland or Australia. If you’re an art major, you might want to peruse historic landmarks and museums in Rome or Greece. English majors may want to find summer abroad programs for college students at Oxford or Cambridge. Summer study abroad for college students in any location can be an excellent opportunity for self-growth.
