Adult Study Abroad

As an adult student, you may have work, home, and family obligations that many “traditional” students don’t have to worry about. If these responsibilities are a concern for you, you may want to consider participating in a short-term study abroad program.

Adult students often worry that they won’t fit in because they are older than most other college students. Sometimes, the age difference causes adult students to feel isolated from the others. Nevertheless,study abroad is still a valuable experience for you, especially if you have never had the opportunity to live abroad before.

In fact, adult students have certain advantages over traditional students when they study abroad. You have more life experience, and can gain deeper insight into the culture and politics of the host country. Plus, because you have had experience in the workforce, you will understand the value of developing skills such as cross-cultural communication.

Must Ask Questions for Adult Students

·         Do I have work, home, and/or family obligations that prevent me from studying abroad for an extended period of time?

·         Will there be other adult students in my program?

·         How old are the other students participating in my program?

·         How do people in my host country view adult students?

·         What skills do I want to gain or improve while I’m abroad?

Tips for Adult Students

·         Look into short term programs if you cannot afford to spend an extended period of time away from your family and can’t take too much time off work.

·         Talk with other adult students who have studied abroad.

·         Sometimes you might feel that you don’t fit in, but remember not to isolate yourself from the rest of the group. Get to know the others and let them get to know you.

·         Research what people in your host country that are your age do and where they live. For example, do they work? Take care of their children and/or parents? Live alone or with extended family?