EXPLORE
It’s important to start planning as early as possible for your study abroad experience. Have a conversation with your parents and your academic adviser now about how to make your study abroad goals a reality.
Not sure where to begin? Here are some tips to help you start the process.
1. Define your goals and objectives. Study abroad can be a great time to take advantage of academic opportunities not available on the PLNU campus, to explore your major in a new cultural context, to learn another language, to develop cross-cultural competency, and to prepare for a career with an international dimension. Consider your answers to the following questions:
- Why do you want to study abroad? What do you hope to accomplish?
- How does study abroad fit into your academic plans? What kinds of courses do you hope to take abroad? Does your major require study abroad?
- When do you want to go abroad? Will a semester program or a summer program fit best within your degree requirements?
- What kind of program suits your interests and goals? Do you prefer to take courses at a host university abroad or to study with other PLNU students and faculty on a faculty-led program?
- Do you want to take classes in English, in a foreign language, or both?
- Bonus question(!): How will you develop your top five strengths while abroad to help you prepare for your future career?
2. Explore Programs. Search for programs by major, location, program type, or language of study. Read what other students have said about their experiences abroad.
3. Attend one of our daily information sessions, held Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 2pm (throughout the fall and spring semesters) in Nicholson Commons 3rd floor.
4. Meet with a Study Abroad Advisor or Ambassador.