Studying Abroad: Because studying in your home country is overrated sometimes. (t1)

     One enticing aspect of most collegiate experiences,  aside from the chance to live and study on your own, exploring the idiosyncrasies of dining hall food, and staying up late to finish papers, is being able to study abroad. While the breadth of programs available differs by college, taking a class or doing research in a host country is an incredible opportunity. It's not often that you can be surrounded in an environment that directly relates to your subject, or that can simply give you a new perspective in your field.
     Being that I'm looking at majoring or minoring in Spanish, studying abroad in Spain or Latin American country is highly recommended, even required, by my top college choices. At times, this does seem rather intimidating. My Spanish is often never tested on the spot, save for when I'm helping someone with homework, talking to my friends from Puerto Rico (and even then their English trumps my Spanish each and every time), or trying to sing along to Shakira, so going to a country where Spanish is spoken rapidly and colloquially is no easy thing. Luckily, this opportunity is still a ways away, giving me time to practice ordering food and dancing the tango (Argentina, anybody?)
     Another concern that some students (but more likely, parents) may have is safety. Traveling throughout foreign countries as a young American female can put you at a disadvantage, and the high crime rates of certain areas in Latin America can send in a wave of unease. However, some smart traveling tips and a working knowledge of the host language, political affairs, and social customs can prevent tourist faux pas and keep you from standing out like a ridiculous sore thumb.

   There you have it folks: practice before traveling, don't walk down dark alleys, know which countries to avoid during elections, and don't read maps openly in public. Studying abroad is a wonderful opportunity. It can open your mind to new cultures, people, and even ways of teaching. Whatever the case, consider studying abroad...because studying in your home country is overrated sometimes.