Top 10 Reasons to Study Abroad
1. You can see the world and earn academic credit - when you study abroad, your credits will transfer back to Texas Tech and count towards your degree. You can take courses towards your major or minor, complete core curriculum requirements, or explore a new area of study.
2. Your résumé will thank you - did you know that less than 1% of U.S. university students study abroad? Your study abroad experience can set you apart from others as you apply for graduate, law, or medical school or apply for a job. The skills you gain while living abroad can give you an advantage in just about any career field.
3. You can live in another culture, not just observe it - from Japan to Germany, and Argentina to Australia you can learn about the traditions, culture and society of another country in a way that tourists never experience.
4. You can meet people from different backgrounds - you can make new friends from your host country and from other parts of the U.S., all brought together by the bonds of common experience.
5. You can improve your foreign language skills - put your language studies into action! Learn a language by living it, not by reading about it in a textbook. Of course, you don't have to speak another language to study abroad. The majority of TTU study abroad programs offer the opportunity to take all classes in English.
6. It can change your life - studying abroad is a unique opportunity for personal growth that can change the way you see the world.
7. You can learn things about yourself and your country - you can gain a more informed perspective on world affairs and the role of the United States in the world.
8. You can gain invaluable life skills - increased self-confidence, independence, self-sufficiency, patience, adaptability, cross-cultural communications skills, and a willingness to take on new challenges are all examples of the many personal benefits of studying abroad.
9. You may never have another classroom setting like it - studying abroad is likely to be very different from what you are used to doing as a student. You may become familiar with an entirely new academic system and have the chance to take courses not offered on your home campus.
And last, but not least . . .
10. You can have lots of FUN - meet new people, try new foods and travel to exciting places! At the end of your summer, semester or year abroad, you can come home with many stories to share about your wonderful experiences abroad.