<p>I just came back from a summer study abroad; this experience has me craving for more, but I'm nearing the end of my undergrad career (entering my 4th year). I'd rather not do my master's abroad because all my dream schools are within the country, plus my area of focus is US National Security so I'd really only be able to do that in the states anyway.</p>
<p>I decided to pick a second major a few months back, and due to the last minute decision I will inevitably have to do an extra year. I am considering studying abroad during the first semester of my 5th year, since it's too late to apply for my 4th year. </p>
<p>Would that be a good idea? Most students who study abroad are either Sophomores or Juniors, so I will be 2-3 years older than others in my program. Plus, doing a 5th year is not as common in other countries so I may even end up being one of the oldest on campus. Does anyone have any experience with this? Thoughts?</p>
<p>You sound career oriented. If it fits your career plans, definitely do it. </p>
<p>Re national security studies, you can do it outside the US. The technical stuff is similar, but the perspective is different, hence invaluable. I did IR in France, at Sciences Po, and not only have never regretted it, but it helped me to get my first job as a researcher in IR and politics.</p>
<p>Does your school allow this? My school doesn’t allow people who are about to graduate study abroad LOL. If they do and you can afford it, I’d definitely opt for it! I agree that you get a different perspective of things, especially if you’re going to be taking classes related to your major. I am doing ad/marketing/PR but taking classes in a different country allowed me to see how they do international marketing and how different it is from the US. Very valuable information that some of the people I’ve talked to in this field think is a huge plus on my resume.</p>