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Students and parents might be seeking options for college abroad for several reasons. Some might see it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse themselves in a new environment culturally. Others might see it as a more affordable option compared to the United States. Whatever the reason for being curious about pursuing higher education abroad, here are some things to consider if you are a good match.

You have the potential to be highly independent.

When seeking an education outside the United States, students frequently live independently and need to cook, clean, and take care of themselves. College students are seen as adults and are treated as such. Students won’t be as handheld through their experience, and will instead need to hold their own hand. It is less about not needing help with anything and more about being able to take action without the immediate guidance of parents. Independence can be fostered and grown.

You can advocate for yourself.

Coinciding with independence, advocating for yourself is a skill that can be developed. Advocacy in college might mean staying after class for help if you need clarification on a topic, or asking a stranger for directions when lost. It is having courage in a moment of vulnerability. As a mentor and college consultant, I help students develop the skills necessary to advocate for themselves in the adult world. I teach them basic skills, like how to compose a professional email, or guide them on who to go to with questions. Advocacy, like independence, is built over time.

You have a sense of humor.

It may sound strange to prioritize humor as a successful characteristic when choosing to go abroad to college. But humor can be significant. There will be situations that don’t go according to plan. There might be cultural differences in the way students or professors function in your new country of study. Having a lighthearted perspective and being able to laugh can keep your spirits high. I’ve traveled to many countries, mostly solo. Having a sense of humor in my arsenal has given me a resiliency that kept me afloat during situations that could have ended in annoyance or disappointment.

You are curious and open-minded.

Being naturally curious about other people is a quality that will allow you to succeed in your new life abroad. There will likely be cultural differences in your new country of study, even in English-speaking countries. Talking about religion or politics might not be considered rude and just a part of general discussion. Instead of being stuck in the traditions and background you were raised in, it is important to be nonjudgmental and open-minded when forming friendships and meeting new people. We are often afraid of people who are different from us. I say, embrace the different people you meet and get curious about everything.

You know what you want to study.

When applying to schools internationally, whether in Europe or Australia, oftentimes you are applying to a specific academic program. In the United States, students can normally declare their major by the end of sophomore year, taking freshman year as a chance to explore through distribution course. However, many programs abroad take only three years to complete and require specialization upon application.

You have courage.

Going abroad to college is a magical experience, but it requires bravery. You will not have the easier route of staying within your country to study. You will have to navigate new experiences on your own. I find students who are best fits for going to university abroad have the ability to do hard things. When I decided to move to Spain at 23, with no Spanish whatsoever, people called me crazy. But I trusted myself, and I had the courage to take the chance. And guess what—it was so worth it!

By Liz Suh, 51³Ô¹Ï (MA)