<p>The university I am going to offers me the ability to study abroad my first or second semester there, in either England or Scotland. Should I take this opportunity? The school I am going to has a very good study abroad program so I will probably have other opportunities. I have always wanted to study abroad but I wonder if it is wise to do so before I have even gotten used to college in the US. Thoughts?</p>
<p>It’s a personal choice based on what you want. I don’t see any drawbacks to studying in England/Scotland your first year and then doing another country your third year. I’ve met several students that have studied in multiple countries. And the more time you spend abroad during college, the better, as far as I’m concerned. You will not get the opportunity again after you graduate.</p>
<p>Check out an article I wrote about study abroad considerations here: [College</a> Guidance Examiner](<a href=“http://■■■■■■■.com/czqpf2]College”>Examiner is back - Examiner.com)</p>
<p>Personally I think it’s a bad idea to go abroad your first year. First year is a time for adjustment, for getting used to college, for making friends and becoming comfortable. The transition is difficult enough as it is, but throw international immersion into the mix? I mean, it could be good for some people who are well-prepared, but personally I wouldn’t trade my freshman year for the world as much as I really wanted to spend more time abroad.</p>
<p>However, Wes Henricksen is right that you should try to take advantage of studying abroad when you are in college. You think that you will be able to do so later, but usually, you won’t. The money is not as free-flowing, and there are few programs for those not in undergrad – usually they are competitive (like JET or EPIK or Fulbright). My biggest regret to studying abroad is that I didn’t spend more time abroad while I had the chance.</p>
<p>I think the second and third years are the best times to spend abroad.</p>