Top 10 Challenges to Studying Abroad

Many students lament that they are unable to study abroad because the challenges are too great. In fact, there are lots of solutions out there to help you overcome any challenge. Here are the most frequently cited reasons that Smith students give for not studying abroad as well as solutions to overcoming these challenges

1) Studying abroad costs too much.

There are certainly costs associated with studying abroad. However, did you know that if you choose a Smith exchange partner, you will pay the same tuition and fees as if you were at Maryland? Depending on the country you choose, you may end up spending even less than you would here in College Park for a semester! Of course, there will be travel expenses and other considerations but there are scholarships available for students looking to study abroad.

2) I don't speak a foreign language or have sufficient foreign language skills.

All of Smith's exchange partners offer business classes in English. Many of our options are universities with large populations of international students and the language of choice for these students tends to be English. For those universities located in a non-English speaking country, most of them have crash courses in the language for exchange students so that you can navigate life off-campus.

3) The credits from another institution wont transfer and count toward my degree.

All of Smith's exchange partners are accredited institutions that have been pre-approved by the school. They offer many course options for you to choose from that will fulfill both Smith and University requirements. Before you study abroad, you'll meet with your advisor to ensure that the credits will transfer.

4) I have no idea where to start or which program to choose.

Did you know that the Smith School has a person dedicated to helping you do just that? Contact Lisa Barnard and she can explain the options available and the exact process for studying abroad.

5) The country I want to study abroad in isn't on the website.

The Smith School can maintain only so many partnerships at one time. But that doesn't mean you are limited to these options only. The Smith School will accept credits from any AACSB or EQUIS accredited institution. Pursuing study abroad with a university that is not a Smith partner may take a little more work, but it is possible and students have done it in the past.

6) I wont be able to graduate on time if I study abroad.

Sometimes Smith students have many competing responsibilities that interfere with their ability to spend an entire semester abroad. If you're a double major, an athlete, or involved in a special program such as Fellows or Gemstone, it may be very difficult. However, the Smith School offers short-term abroad courses during the winter and summer terms. These 3-credit classes allow you to explore business in another country for 10-14 days with a small group of about 20 30 students. By participating, you will be able to have an abroad experience without sacrificing an entire semester.

7) Studying abroad will interfere with my chances to land an internship.

Traditionally, many students have opted to study abroad during spring semester of Junior year. Doing so has the potential for interfering with interviews for summer internships. However, many of the Smith exchange partners have internship opportunities available which offers the opportunity of international work experience. Additionally, students can choose to study abroad during the fall of their Junior year or during Sophomore year depending on their major requirements.

8) I cant imagine being away from my friends for a whole semester.

Bring them along! There is nothing that prevents multiple Smith students from pursuing study abroad at the same university concurrently. In fact, many of Smith's exchange partners allow you to choose your own roommate if you live on-campus. Another option for students who don't want to go away for a whole semester is to explore our short-term study abroad courses.

9) My parents wont let me study abroad.

Most parents are worried about two things when it comes to their son or daughter studying abroad: cost and safety. As outlined above, studying abroad may not cost as much as you expect and there are scholarships available. In regard to safety, this is a top priority for both the Smith School and our exchange partners. We regularly review travel advisories issued by the State Department to ensure that our students are headed to countries safe for American students.

10) There's too much red tape and bureaucracy involved in studying abroad.

Pursuing study abroad does require work on your part. Simply reviewing the options available, picking courses that transfer, and getting the appropriate signatures will take some time. However, these are important steps to prepare you for navigating life in a foreign country. We've tried to make it as easy as possible, but you have to be willing to do a little work.