Studying Abroad is a great opportunity to explore the world and learn the lifestyle of people. However, it can come with challenges like language barriers, culture issues as well as emotional imbalance.

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience. It can broaden horizons, challenge perspectives and give the opportunity to learn about different cultures, languages and ways of life. Heidi Staerkel, associate director of international programs for student services, and Shayden Hanes, president of WSGA, both expressed their ideas on what it’s like studying abroad.

“Cultural differences are a major disadvantage for those who are studying abroad. But it also allows people to immerse in a new culture, language and way of life,” Staerkel said. “Sometimes people can be sick or get hurt, at that time we need someone to support and help us. I had the opportunity to live with a host mom who was like family to me. And got a chance to interact with locals, which can give a better understanding of the country and its people.”

“Biggest thing that students studying abroad should know about is to never set back to ask for help and suggest not to stay alone when you are having a hard time or feeling lonely. Just share feelings to closed ones and stay focused,” Staerkel said.

Both Staerkel and Hanes have traveled abroad for years for educational purposes, thus both suggest students not be afraid to express their feelings and expand their lives, whether it’s for educational purposes or it’s about people’s lifestyle.

“Studying abroad can be a great way to develop your independence and self-reliance. You may be living on your own for the first time,” Hanes said.” Studying abroad can be a transformative experience that can help you grow personally and professionally. You may gain confidence, independence, and a global perspective that can benefit you throughout your life.”

Hanes believes that studying abroad is a great opportunity to expand one’s comfort zone and experience culture through food, people or just different customs that come with different cultures. It is definitely not easy traveling abroad. There is always a language barrier, but all those obstacles will really expand one’s personality.

It’s important to carefully consider and make plans before embarking on a study abroad journey. Studying abroad is the biggest opportunity to expand the comfort zone and learn about other people with different cultures and backgrounds.

According to both Staerkel and Hanes, the best time of studying abroad is after high school, as at that time students can focus on education as after a certain time people will not have the same flexibility, they will have family as well as work so they wouldn’t be able to expand themselves.

Studying abroad can also come with its challenges. People may experience culture shock, homesickness, or difficulty adjusting to a new environment. However, with an open mind and willingness to learn, studying abroad can be an incredibly rewarding experience.

Hanes traveled herself and experienced language problems as well as cultural variation with different lifestyles and suggested students to know at least main cultures as well as be respectful to each and every person.

Students who are interested in traveling abroad can go to International House or Tina Willams, an coordinator of study abroad at International Programs. Washburn gives lots of opportunities for students to study abroad and will definitely boost careers as well as give lifetime experience.

Edited by: Glorianna Noland and Rakesh Swarnakar