Imagine swimming with dolphins in their natural habitat off the coast of Australia. How about spending the afternoon in a New Zealand landscape so stunningly beautiful, films such as The Lord of the Rings have filmed there? No, you aren’t on vacation: you are earning credits for Oceanography and biology while studying abroad!
It is a unique educational experience that will remain with you for the rest of your life. Many people have a very limited view of the world we live in and international travel is a relief from that.
In an article for the Huffington Post, employers across a vast spectrum of industries explained why applicants who studied abroad stood out during the application and interview process. Students grew both professionally and personally, learning intangible life skills along the way:
- Creative problem-solving experience in unfamiliar situations
- Adaptability within culturally diverse environments
- Excellent listening and communication skills
- Practical knowledge of a specific culture and language
Nicole van Renesse studied abroad in Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji during her junior year spring semester at The University of Georgia. She shared a few of her MANY experiences:
In Australia, she learned about human geography and the colonization of Terra Nullius, the great unknown continent. Her group explored the Outback and Aboriginal communities, as well as the marine diversity of the Great Barrier Reef (Prior to the trip she was terrified of the ocean, Nicole is now a certified scuba diver that never wants to leave the water!). New Zealand taught her about environmental issues and how to live clean, green and pure. She hiked mountains, volcanoes and glaciers, learning the ancient language and culture of the Maori. Attending a lecture at Massey University in Wellington was an interesting highlight to the trip. While in Fiji, Nicole and her peers discovered the various ways in which cultures have impacted the environment and stayed with a family in a traditional Fijian village.
Studying abroad gives students the alluring experience of taking in the culture of a new land, one of the best ways to experience culture is to live it.
“The amount of knowledge that can be gained by experiencing another person’s perspective on life or their culture is something you cannot find in a book. This trip has truly changed the woman I have become today.”
Nicole van Renessee, The University of Georgia
Choose from many unique programs to find the perfect fit for your personality and earn a variety of credits without ever having to step foot in a classroom. Study abroad is just as accessible as a regular college semester: the cost is even less than regular tuition and scholarships can still be applied to help fund the cost. Yes, you still have to take tests – but you may be sitting on the side of a mountain while doing so!
MissionSafe has a unique set of plans designed specifically for Student Travelers. Get a quote today.
