TU Today

Well, actually… that’s not true!

We know there are many misconceptions out there about study abroad, but we are here to let you know that, actually, they’re not true! Here are the facts about studying abroad:

FACT: Study abroad and away doesn’t have to break the bank. While costs vary depending on the program you choose and length of stay, TU Exchange programs cost the same as tuition for a semester and/or year at Towson University (excluding travel). Short-term programs may be more popular for TU students, but in fact going abroad or away for a semester can be the more cost-effective way to go! Additionally, financial aid and scholarships are available, and military affiliated students can even use VA benefits for certain experiences abroad.

FACT: Students in ANY MAJOR can study abroad or away. Sure, some majors have more flexibility with program options, but don’t be discouraged if you can’t find something yourself or if someone tells you it’s not possible for your major. With more than 700 different program options and all the requirements you have for a degree outside of your major (e.g., minor, Core, general electives, 120 credit hours, etc.), there is something out there for everyone and we’re here to help you find something that works for you. Semester programs give you access to full university course offerings, which makes it easier to take your major courses abroad, and you can even complete an internship abroad! Planning early, being flexible, and having an open mind are key.

FACT: Study abroad and away is for everyone! There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and we recognize that every student has different considerations. We have many resources for various student identities, and our advisors are more than happy to talk with you through any questions or concerns you may have. International degree-seeking students may also be interested in participating in the National Student Exchange program for the chance to see more of the United States while pursuing their degree at TU! Everyone in the TU Study Abroad & Away Office, including our student staff, has either studied, lived, or worked abroad at some point, and if we could do it, you can too!

FACT: You don’t need to know a foreign language to study abroad! There are many benefits to learning a second language and we encourage you to consider taking a language class while abroad. However, you don’t need to know another language to get there! There are many program options in countries where English is not the predominant language spoken but where you can still take your classes in English. Get out of your comfort zone and consider opportunities in non-English speaking countries!

FACT: Study abroad and away is more than travel. Traveling is of course part of the experience, but there are so many other reasons to participate in an academic experience abroad or away. Participating in a cross-cultural experience like studying abroad or away can be a powerful way to grow and assist with achieving your academic, personal, and professional goals. These experiences can break you out of your comfort zone, help you learn more about yourself, develop skills employers are looking for, discover new interests, and build your network. Studies show that students who participate…
• Are more likely to graduate
• Often graduate faster
• Graduate with higher GPAs
• Get jobs more quickly after graduation
• Advance more quickly in their careers
• Have higher earning potential long term

FACT: It’s not too late to study abroad or away! Space is still available on all of our Minimester 2023 faculty-led study abroad programs. If you are graduating this spring, consider applying for the Career Exploration and Professional Development program in Barcelona, Spain during Spring Break 2024! This is a great opportunity to earn more credit hours towards your degree while also helping you polish your resume and interviewing skills as you prepare for entering the workforce. What better way than to do that abroad? The one thing we hear over and over is “My biggest regret from my time in college is not studying abroad” – that doesn’t have to be you! There is still time to apply for Minimester and Spring Break programs: apply by October 15!

Towson University is a global university and there is something out there for everyone. The Study Abroad & Away Office is your first destination to learn more about all of the opportunities that can help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in today’s global community. Join us for a Group Advising session and then meet with a study abroad advisor to discover how this experience might work for you. Whether you are 100% interested or only just 1% curious, there is nothing to lose by checking us out to learn more!

Categorised in: Students

This post was written by Campbell, Nicholas S.