Imagine riding a camel and sleeping under the stars in an orange desert. Maybe that’s too sandy for you, in which case, you can imagine visiting holy sites, going on a safari, or unleashing your inner Whovian. Now, imagine doing any of these things while earning college credit. This is the beauty of studying abroad. 

Last semester, I embarked on a journey with BestSemester’s Middle East Studies Program, affectionately called MESP. I earned a full 18 credits while visiting the pyramids in Egypt, getting scrubbed in the Turkish baths in Morocco, engaging in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in the West Bank, and yes, riding camels in Jordan. Before the university’s administration begins to think I went on a glorified vacation, I will clarify that the academics were rigorous. That being said, the most memorable lessons were taught through experiential learning that could never have been captured in any classroom. 

Does this sound too good to be true? I can assure you that it is true, and I have the pictures to prove it. Now if you are wondering how you can take part in a life-changing semester abroad, please continue reading for some tips on beginning your own study abroad process.

Look into all of your options. There are so many different programs available to Cairn students. Even if a program does not look like it will match your major, it may line up with your overall life goals. As a psychology major, the Middle East Studies Program may not have seemed like a good match, but as someone hoping to work with Middle Eastern refugees, it made perfect sense. To see all of the programs available through Cairn, you can visit this website.

It may be more affordable than you think. Organizations offer study abroad programs for a wide range of prices. There are also several scholarships looking to support students studying abroad. In my current financial situation, it was actually cheaper to spend a semester in Jordan than here at Cairn. That may not be the case for every student, but it is worth looking into. 

The application process is not as bad as it sounds. First, you need to meet with your academic advisor to discuss whether study abroad is right for you. Then, you will need to complete an application from the registrar’s office, as well as an application through the study abroad program of your choice. Finally, assuming you make it through the first round of the application, you will set up an interview which will determine your acceptance.

Start planning early. Cairn typically does not send students for a semester abroad until their junior year, but class credits are important to consider ahead of time. You will also need to apply at least one semester in advance. Set up a meeting with your advisor to discuss the best program for you, and how to incorporate it into your academic plan.

You will learn lessons that you will carry with you for a lifetime. And I do mean lessons aside from how to ride a camel. You will learn flexibility, grow in cultural adaptation skills, and gain different perspectives you had never considered. You even have the potential to learn a different language! Many of these lessons are ones that could not be taught inside a classroom. 

We often see advertisements for study abroad programs, but most students do not know the first steps to take. Students also question if it is a feasible option for their major or for their financial situation. However, with these tips in mind, I hope the study abroad process feels a lot more accessible and a little less daunting. Studying abroad will certainly take you out of your comfort zone, but it will be worth every insane, confused, unforgettable moment.