Deciding on the right study abroad program can be a daunting process. The easiest part is deciding where you want to study ... but that's just the beginning. Once you've settled on your ideal destination, there are a number of other issues to resolve: homestay, dorm or apartment? Urban or rural? Classes with other Americans or with foreign students? Will you study in English or in the local language? Answering these questions will narrow down your program options, but a dilemma remains: With little to rely on besides word−of−mouth reviews, how do you pick the right program for you? How do you know which programs are reputable and which leave students wanting more?
The study abroad industry has long lacked transparency; unlike in the higher−education industry, there's no Princeton Review or College Confidential for study abroad programs. In fact, it is markedly more difficult to get reliable and unbiased information about international education programs.
Here on the Hill, Tufts' approach to study abroad is unique in that it seeks to accommodate any and all students who wish to study abroad. As one of the leading universities in study abroad, Tufts sends about 45 percent of undergraduates on study programs around the world. Of these students, roughly two−thirds participate in programs sponsored by third−party providers or other accredited institutions. Jumbos have the rare luxury of being able to choose from many renowned Tufts programs, as well as hundreds of study abroad programs in locations as diverse as Belgium, Belize and Botswana. But this luxury of variety and freedom to choose comes with an inherent responsibility: Tufts students must research their study abroad destinations thoughtfully and thoroughly.
In my experience, I've often found that the best advice on such matters comes from my peers. In this particular case, the best study abroad advice comes from students who have actually been on these programs. But where to access sound advice from likeminded peers? One recommended resource is Abroad101 (Abroad101.com), a Web site founded by Tufts alum Michael Stone (LA '07) that hosts unbiased reviews about study abroad programs by real students and strives to match the student with the perfect abroad experience. The philosophy behind the resource is a simple one: Choosing a study abroad program is no small decision, and as such, should not be made blindly. Think about it: You narrow your options down to a few programs, and then what? You ask your friend, or your cousin or your cousin's friend if he or she knows anyone who's been on the same program. As the first online community for study abroad reviews and feedback, Abroad101 connects you with the right person by featuring thousands of reviews from students nationwide who have been on the programs you want to learn about. And best of all, you don't need to track down alums from your top programs; simply search for the program that interests you and start reading reviews right away. Or, browse the possibilities and perhaps you will even stumble upon a program you never imagined. Thinking Barcelona? How about considering Buenos Aires or Bogotá? You owe it to yourself to explore the multitude of options.
If you've already studied abroad, you can still visit Abroad101 and leave a review. From a purely altruistic point of view, you'll help inform other students and provide insider information on your program. Think of it as a chance to let the next generation of study−abroad students know about your favorite sushi spot in Santiago, suggest a must−see site in Madrid, or share a tip about Internet access in Accra. Studying abroad is a once−in−lifetime opportunity, and Abroad101 offers you an opportunity to ensure that other students have an experience as singular and sublime as yours.
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Will Nichols is a senior majoring in International Relations and Spanish. He studied abroad in Buenos Aires in 2008 and is the campus representative and business development intern for Abroad101.com.
