Pursuing goals while working toward a degree and gaining rich cultural immersion experience isn’t impossible, although it does not have to be It may feel as if the world is too vast to find somewhere to start, let alone navigating a seemingly complex process to study abroad. Olivia Adams, senior at the University of Idaho and work-study employee for the International Programs Office (IPO), has some insight on taking first steps toward achieving academic, travel and career goals.
Studying abroad is an experience unique and almost exclusive to college students, given that it may be the only time in someone’s life that they can receive funding to explore the world, all while earning credits that will transfer to one’s home university. Programs provide the opportunity to diversify students’ time abroad through a variety of internship opportunities, community involvement and service learning.
Adams said, “10 percent of students study abroad (and) over 60 percent of employers report that international experience is important to recruitment. Those that they hire with international experience are often given greater professional responsibility.”
The IPO has collaborations with more than 300 universities across a broad range of 45 countries, providing students with the luxury of finding a destination that suits their personal, academic and career goals. Importantly, a student’s area of study and prior knowledge of other languages is hardly a barrier. While picking up courses in the country’s native language is encouraged-given that two to four semesters of language can be completed in just one abroad-numerous courses are offered in English.
Many programs also feature accommodations to lessen the impact of culture shock. There are three types: partner exchange (variety of students from all over the world), study abroad (most onsite support) and faculty led (led by professors and shorter).
While the cost may discourage students from taking their first step, Adams assures them there is no shortage of possibilities of receiving financial aid.
“Don’t immediately dismiss the idea because you think it will be too expensive. I had my whole abroad experience paid for through scholarships and financial aid. It’s really doable to get scholarships or to transfer your financial aid; It can be a lot less expensive than you think.”
In addition to her role with the IPO primarily assisting foreign exchange students, Adams is also an International Studies and Political Science student with a minor in Spanish and a passion for travel. She spent her Spring 2023 semester studying abroad in Spain.
“I came back from my experience and decided that I would like to be an education abroad ambassador,” in order to “encourage other students to go study abroad.”
She now leads a first-time information session that covers the basics of an experience abroad, also serving as the first step in realizing your goals come to fruition.
First-time information sessions are held at the IPO, next door to the LLC offices, Mondays at 3:30 p.m., Tuesdays at 2 p.m. and Fridays at 1:30 p.m.
Adams believes an international experience is a vital component in education because, “of globalization and the ways in which the world is becoming so much more interconnected. And also, it helps you understand people around you better.The first-time info session can kind of encourage you to take that perspective and encourage you to study abroad.”
More information regarding the IPO, study abroad, programs, financial aid and more information can be found online.
Tanner Allen can be reached at [email protected]