Study Abroad Disadvantages? Academic wise?

Question

I was considering studying abroad in my undergraduate years, I've been accepted to UC Irvine. I would like to experience a different culture in Europe. I'm not thinking about studying abroad in my freshman year, but I might consider my junior or senior year.

I would like to know every disadvantage there is, for example the accreditation of a degree that is obtained from a different country. Please do not say the disadvantages are culture shock and missing the family OR money.

I'ld like to know if there are issues such with the degree I get in a different country, because of which I may jeopardize my career or get a lower income in my future job.

Thank you

Answer 1

Ok, I've done three exchange years in Germany (one after high school, one in college, and one as an English teacher after college), so I understand your concern.  Here's what I've come up with for disadvantages.  Keep in mind that some of it might be Germany-specific.

Not getting done with your degree on time.  Foreign universities may have different (read: unfamiliar) formats that can be more time-consuming.  In Germany, for instance, you don't really have advisors or get grades.  There is a big exam after about two years of study, and you are expected to be ready for this and pass it.  The classes you take on the way to getting ready are up to you.  And some that are "highly recommended" by other students might not be available every semester.

Trying to work in Europe.  While you are in school, it'll be hard for you to work in Europe unless you have a skill that the people of that country don't (such as the English language).  The EU has passed laws that have employers look for workers from that country, then Europe as a whole, then elsewhere.  So you're pretty likely to be stuck with babysitting or some such.

Credits don't transfer.  If you are planning to do part time in Europe and part in America, check with your university in the US to see if/how the credits transfer.  For instance, for my time abroad, all my related credits counted towards my major, but all my grades (which I had had to specifically ask the teachers in Germany for) did not.

Not finding a job later.  Unless you are planning to become a translator or a teacher of the language you're learning, don't choose that language as your major.  Having, oh, say a degree in engineering that you got in Germany will look good on any resume and make you stand out.  There are definitely degrees from some countries that might be more prestigious in your field, but you definitely won't jeopardize your career.

I personally would probably recommend going through an American university to Europe for a year or so rather than going for your whole degree, just in case.  I don't know how that would work out for you if you wanted to do grad school.

Answer 2

Degree will help you get a better job in a reputated firm but smartness and knowledge will earn you money.



And studying abroad makes you learn lots of things in life and in return makes you a better person  for handling your life.

You should go....