Words of Study Abroad Wisdom

(from returned students' evaluations of their study abroad experiences)

“Choose [a program] with a homestay, classes in that language, and a year-long program.”- 06-07 student, Tufts in Chile

Regarding language background: “Just don’t think too much or be afraid to make mistakes [because] communicating is the goal, not nailing every word or grammatical construct.”- spring 07 student, CIEE in Sevilla

“Don’t let fear stop you from doing a more immersive program. In the end you will get a lot more out of it.” - 06-07 student, Indiana University in Bologna

“Just study abroad. Don’t even think about it. JUST DO IT!”- 06-07 student, Tufts in Madrid

“Think hard about what you want to get out of studying abroad, and talk to a lot of people who went on programs you’re interested in to learn more about them. But at the same time, don’t worry too much about choosing the perfect program- there are pros and cons to everything, and everyone I know had a great time abroad, wherever they went.” - spring 07 student, IFSA-Butler in Edinburgh, Scotland

“I had the best experience living in a homestay.” – spring 07 student, Sweet Briar in Sevilla

Regarding advice for study abroad: “I think just to make sure to challenge yourself- whether it’s going somewhere all your friends are NOT going or somewhere you wouldn’t necessarily see yourself in. Also, just make sure to not hang out and stay within your comfort zone- because it defeats the purpose of going abroad.”- 06-07 student, Tufts in London

“Living with my host family was one of the best aspects of the program. I wouldn’t have changed it for the world.” – spring 07 student, Tufts in Madrid

Regarding choosing a study abroad program: “Talk to people who have been on the program! Appearances can be deceiving.” – spring 07 student, Tufts in Madrid

“I would do a program that allows for direct enrollment in a university & really take advantage of that city, that culture, etc.  The host family experience was also invaluable.” – spring 07 student, SIT in Buenos Aires

“I would definitely go to a country where you speak the language- it is such a great feeling and experience to practice a foreign language everyday- you leave with such a sense of accomplishment.” – fall 07 student, SIT in Geneva