The world around us is vast and interesting, yet a whopping 64% of the United States population has never even left the country So what does that mean? It means that more than half of our nation has never experienced the tons of different wonders scattered around the world. We’ve been crawled up in our own homes, never experiencing a new environment different than our own. We see the same old construction sites or squirrels on our way to class every day, then eat the same pizza or pasta from the Spit. Nothing ever changes! That’s where Villanova’s study abroad program steps in. It offers a great opportunity for students to change up our daily routines, and experience a whole new environment for an entire semester. With dozens of different programs that range from studying in Singapore to Ireland, you can go to just about any country you’ve ever had even the smallest desire to visit.

How to get started

Even if you’re merely thinking about the possibility of studying abroad, I heavily recommend that you sign up for the “First Step Information Session” . These sessions are held by students who have previously studied abroad before and are there to help guide you through the application process and make it easier for students new to the system. Within a 30-minute presentation you will leave the room knowing just about everything there is to know about the different study abroad programs, and how to apply for them. It’s also important to note to try to get this information session done as soon as possible, as it is a requirement to begin your application.

In my personal experience at the information session, it was great to learn about some of our adviser’s personal experiences abroad in Singapore and Shanghai. She mentioned some great trips such as trips to Universal Studios in Singapore, or an excursion to an ostrich zoo. In my opinion, that is what’s so great about these study abroad trips. You get to experience things you would have otherwise never have even thought of before. She also mentioned the great cuisine that you will get to experience abroad through eating at fancy restaurants and tasting new foods native to the country. Our adviser also mentioned some great advice to keep in mind if you do decide to go into a study abroad program. Some important points to remember were:

• Don’t just stay near the area where you’re living. Go out and explore the city and discover something new.
• Interact with some of the locals, especially if you’re dorming in the same buildings as them. It’s a crucial step to truly becoming acclimated in your new environment.
• Most importantly, don’t spend your entire time doing schoolwork. While maintaining grades and working hard is important, that’s not the main reason you’re there. You want to balance your time between school and being able to experience a whole new environment around you at the same time.

Overall, the “First Step Information” session is a great way to be introduced to the vast array of study abroad programs that Villanova has to offer, as well as providing personal advice through your adviser. If you ever start to feel sick of the same routines day after day, then maybe studying abroad is the choice for you.