Advice to those thinking about studying abroad
Photo courtesy of The Geneseo Website
While studying abroad students can experience breathtaking views and once in a lifetime moments, like this incredible view seen by a Geneseo student studying abroad.
Many students begin their college career with the dream that they might one day study abroad but quickly abandon this. One might think that it is too expensive, will not fit within their major, or that they do not have any friends to accompany them. While these reasons all have validity, they are not necessarily reasons to completely take study abroad off the table!
Money plays a large role in study abroad courses, but Geneseo offers many resources to students in this area. Multiple scholarships are exclusive to students studying abroad at Geneseo, and depending on one's situation, financial aid may be used to cover some of the expenses of studying abroad.
Studying abroad is also available to all majors and minors at Geneseo. Although there may not be a course for a specific major, study abroad courses can fulfill other graduation requirements, such as general education courses. Planning when considering studying abroad can be one of the most useful things in the process.
If you are currently an underclassman, start looking into study abroad programs now! But if you are an upperclassman, it is not too late. When I entered my junior year, I thought that it was too late to study abroad and that I had missed my chance. Upon doing some research, I found a summer study abroad program that was perfect for me, and now I get to visit Ireland this summer while learning about one of my favorite subjects.
While signing up for a study abroad program with a friend has its advantages, it is not necessary to have an amazing experience. I have spoken to many Geneseo students who participated in study abroad programs without knowing any of the other students prior, and they had nothing but positive things to say about their experience.
Studying abroad with new people provides a unique opportunity to make new friends at Geneseo, even if you have been a student for multiple semesters. It is an opportunity to connect with those looking to share the same experience as you, and you may have more in common with each other than you think.
Geneseo provides various study abroad opportunities, one of which is a faculty-led program. These often take place between semesters, such as summer break and intercession. They are a great option for students who do not want to miss out on an entire semester at Geneseo and are looking to fulfill just one requirement within their major.
As Geneseo is part of the SUNY system, there are also study abroad programs through other SUNY schools as well. This expands study abroad opportunities greatly and ensures that there is something for almost every type of student.
If you have concrete questions and want answers, I highly recommend checking out the Study Abroad section of the Geneseo website. It provides basic information about the different programs offered at Geneseo and resources for students to learn more about their options.
Overall, my best advice for those looking to study abroad is to talk to current Geneseo students who have already studied abroad! They will most likely be more than willing to tell you everything about their experience and might have some of the answers that you are looking for. Take advantage of the resources that Geneseo has to offer before your graduation time rolls around. Four years may seem like a lifetime, but it goes by quickly!