<p>I was reading the tensighs thread, and someone commented that study abroad for a lot of people is a waste of time. What are the advantages and disadvantages?</p>
<p>I studied abroad back in the day - and it was the best year of my college experience. In my case, I was specifically interested in the language and culture of the country, and there's no better way to learn a language than to be forced to speak it a few hours a day. I made some wonderful friends, traveled, and learned to appreciate cultural differences. I do wonder how semester study abroad programs can deliver the same benefits as a year-long program. I wouldn't have wanted to come back so quickly. In terms of the disadvantages, I felt a bit disconnected when I got back - but this was in a time when a small minority of students were studying abroad. Also, I broke up with my boyfriend during this time. In the long run, neither of those factors was very important.</p>
<p>Snorky hit it. I was very interested in language and culture, and wanted to see how other people lived. I came to understand why Americans can be so disliked. I came to learn how fortunate we are here. I came to appreciate how much alike all human beings are. I made so many friends, and got to experience life as a French teen. The disconnectedness that Snorky talks about is real, but I think it came about because I really felt outside the culture upon my return. I had changed...developed a different, fuller, and more meaningful view of life. That feeling of apartness has never really gone away...and I'm grateful for that.</p>
<p>We have had two children study abroad, one for an enitre year and one for Spring semester. Both had positive experiences, both academically and socially and got a chance to travel extensively throughout Europe. We encouraged study abroad programs and were fortunate that our children have the same zest for travel that we have and were unafraid to venture forth on their own.</p>
<p>We hope child #3, who is currently a senior in the process of applying to college will also seek out and take advantage of the opportunity to live in another country, speak the language and interact with the people. It's an incredible experience for any young person and I can see no disadvantages from our personal experiences with it.</p>