Studying abroad is a dream come true for most students. It brings
with it a feeling of exhilaration, a chance to step out of the comfort zone and
explore the world from a better perspective. If you are choosing to study
abroad, you have to look through those glossy brochures and gleaming faces and
avoid all the pitfalls that come with deciding on education abroad. Remember
this is not some backpacking trip, it is your career and your parents must be
spending their hard earned money to send to a university abroad.
There are somethings that you should necessary look for before zeroing in on a university or college.
1. Accreditions
No college or university is an island in itself and is subject to evaluations. Every university or college is rated on parameters that students consider might consider relevant. Does a college provide campus or off-campus residence, do they provide exchange programs, are they recognised by a statute or board of education, do they have visiting lecturers, will you get live training or be able to do industry visits, does the college provide flexibility in choosing or changing majors, and others such factors help decide the best suited option overseas. Experts however advice you get concealing from education consultants who can help with the procedure and help access the credentials of the university before you take a decision.
2. Alumni
If you cannot attend campus walks and school visits, a good way to find about the authenticity of a university is to check out Alumni and placements. Check references and call them if you want to be sure, or check for connections who might be friends with the Alumni. You can find out everything unfiltered from the passed out students as they usually do not have any incentive in sugar-coating their experiences. Some universities also send their staff overseas to meet prospective students which can be a good way to get to know about a university.
3. Assimilation
Students studying abroad have to face many obstacles including cultural shocks, stereotypes but there’s no compromise when it comes to racial discrimination. You can get used to all the things that a new country has to throw at you but when it comes to your safety, be very cautioned. It is therefore advised to find out more about a country that you plan to visit, beforehand so that you can factor in all the surprises.
4. Advancement
Your career is an utmost priority when you decide to study abroad. There might be instances when you might fall off the wagon, an occasional night out with friends, or travelling to a weekend spot, but you cannot afford to take your studies lightly. Since your family would not be there, you will have to decide the best career path for yourself. A thorough and insightful research on the college and universities relevant to your domain, and your future prospects after completing a course will help you make the right decision. How soon you can join the workforce, will you get paid summer internship, do you get placement assistance, can you leverage alumni networks for job support are some of the common questions that you need to know beforehand for your own sake.
Other than living expenses and students loans, it will cost you a
lot to study abroad and keep you tied up in paying off those loans for many
years after your studies. It is therefore, paramount that you decide on the
right career before you head off overseas.
