New Year, New Campus, New Country

When’s the best time to study abroad?

By Angela Parinas

Graphic by Catarina Koehler

Trying the dining hall for the first time, getting lost trying to find your classes, asking “what’s your major” for the 100th time within the hour — these are all first-time experiences that mark college life. Some of these moments we would rather live without, but one many choose to stick around for is the coveted experience of studying abroad. 

But there’s one question that remains — when should I go? 

Early Bird Gets the Worm

Freshman and sophomore year is full of new beginnings: new friends, new classes, new homes, new lives. Because incoming underclassmen are already expected to acclimate to so much change, simply the thought of studying abroad that early on seems daunting. 

For one, anxieties may arise from being away from one's home town, let alone from one’s home country. Students may also be scared to miss out on the usual freshman experiences by leaving campus much too early. 

However, beyond all this fear, FOMO and intimidation, studying abroad earlier in your college career can also be greatly beneficial. Front and center of studying abroad is the independence it all but forces upon you. You must learn to navigate your way through adulthood: to find your way through foreign streets, to cook your own meals, and to manage your own time — all between exploring a new city, going out with friends, and staying on top of work. 

While still scary, it can be exceptionally rewarding to find your own autonomy so early. Along with that, studying abroad in either your freshman or sophomore year can offer the opportunity to knock out some general education requirements while getting an experience of a lifetime — all before the really serious years begin. 

If the chance to study abroad earlier in your college career arises, don’t be afraid of the opportunity. Take it head on and embrace adventure. 

Staying on Track

Junior year is by far the most popular time for students to study abroad and for good reason. 

By your third year in college, you’ve got the hang of school, independence and your new lifestyle. You have had enough time to fit study abroad into your schedule and can confidently start this new adventure without the heightened anxieties of freshman fear. 

Same as freshman or sophomore year, you can choose to cover your general education classes during your time abroad or — with the confidence and certainty that come with junior year regarding your major or career path — you may choose to take courses more relevant to your study. 

One con that plagues going abroad in the later years of college are the missed opportunities for jobs or internships, especially if the abroad program goes through the summer. However, if planned well, going abroad around this time should not hinder any opportunities that may arise — especially because there are internship programs which we’ll get into later. 

Overall, going abroad your junior year comes with more assurance and comfort. Plus, it is a great time to add some new excitement to your college experience. 

Better Late Than Never 

While not a popular time to go abroad, senior year still stands as a contender. By this time, you are sure to know your concentrations and interests, are fully comfortable with your campus and college life, and are ready to shake things up. 

Same as junior year, there is a possibility of missing out on job or internship opportunities and career fairs, but study abroad offers work and internship programs in cities like Sydney, London, Berlin, Seoul, and more. These programs are perfect for seniors looking for the abroad experience without having to miss out on career opportunities. 

However, leaving your senior year — whether during the fall or spring semester — may mean missing a part of your last year with your friends and peers, on senior activities and farewells, and on reminiscing old traditions and milestones that mark the end of your undergrad journey. 

While it may come with its cons, missing out on the experience altogether may be the biggest con of them all! 

Each year offers its own benefits, drawbacks and challenges when it comes to planning your semester abroad. What’s really important is determining which path suits you best — whether that be getting an early start, sticking to a set schedule or biding your time — the key is choosing the moment that will enrich your individual experience the most.