Did you know that only about 10% of all undergraduate students in the U.S. study abroad? Even though the U.S. is culturally diverse, it’s a large piece of land secluded from the rest of the world. That can be disadvantageous to us because we get so comfortable in our own environment that we forget there’s more outside of our little bubble. Each of us studied abroad in different locations – Hong Kong, London, and Seoul – and we can all agree that it was one of the most memorable and educational experiences of our college career. That’s why, we’re here to set aside whatever qualms you may have about studying abroad!
Exposure to New Cultural Perspectives and Customs
The best thing to do when you’re in a foreign country is to look at the world through the eyes of the locals. You may find that their perspectives and customs are very different from what you’re used to in the US. Studying abroad allows you to delve deeper into how the history of your host country has shaped the behaviors and culture so keeping an open mind is imperative to understanding their perspectives. For example, I learned in my Religions of Asia class that Buddhism is not considered a religion in China, but more so a lifestyle, and therefore, its practices are deeply rooted into the Chinese culture because of its historical significance.
Critically Reflect on Yourself and Your Identity
Not only do you get to understand other cultures, you get to reflect on yourself, your perceptions of the world, and experience how the world perceives you as well. Before going to Hong Kong, I wasn’t aware that it was an international hub, so I was surprised when I saw that there was a large community of expats living there. People also may have perceptions of you because you’re American, so it’s a great way to represent your culture and encourage positive impressions.
Expand Your Network
You’ll have the opportunity to go to school with and interact with local students but also connect with professionals abroad. I had a friend who joined a club at the school he was attending and made lasting friendships through that experience. In addition, I interned abroad and met some of the most inspiring and dedicated people through my internship and keep in touch with them to this day.
Discover New Interests
There are tons of new activities that you can take part in when you’re abroad that you may not be able to when you’re home. Hiking areas were very easy to reach in Hong Kong so that became a new pastime. You might even find a new career path. Through my internship, I began to see web development as a possible career path.
Taste the Cuisine and Delicacies Around the World
If you’re a big foodie, you’ll find a plethora of diverse cuisines across the world. You may stumble upon streets that are filled with small carts where you can get a taste of the local cuisine. Or you might find that there are restaurants you would find in the US, but their menu is different because it is tailored to locals.
Have we convinced you to give studying abroad a shot? Connect with the Syracuse Abroad office to see how you can begin this journey. And once you’ve decided to take on this educational adventure, apply (the deadline for fall programs has been extended to March 31)!
Written by:
Anjuman Alam ’20, College of Engineering and Computer Science – Hong Kong
Austin Chin ’19, College of Arts and Sciences – London, England
Vy Hoang ’19, College of Arts and Sciences – Seoul, South Korea