Navigating College with a Wanderlust Spirit: A Guide for Future Globetrotters

Hello, future world travelers! If you're reading this, you're probably someone with a passion for travel and a desire to see the world. You're in luck! College is a fantastic time to explore new places and cultures, and there are many ways to incorporate your love for travel into your college experience. Let's dive into how you can make the most of your college years while satisfying your wanderlust.

Choosing the Right Major

Your choice of major can influence your travel opportunities. Some majors naturally lend themselves to more travel opportunities. For example, International Relations, Global Studies, Anthropology, and Languages often require or offer study abroad programs as part of the curriculum.

However, don't feel limited by these suggestions. Most majors can incorporate some form of international experience. For instance, if you're a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) student, you might consider research opportunities abroad.

Studying Abroad: A World of Opportunities

One of the most exciting opportunities for travel during college is studying abroad. Many universities offer study abroad programs that allow you to spend a semester or even a year in a different country. You'll be able to take classes, often in English, while immersing yourself in a new culture.

Studying abroad is not just about sightseeing; it's a profound educational experience. You'll learn about different cultures, perspectives, and ways of life. Plus, it's a great way to make international friends and expand your global network.

When considering schools, look for those with robust study abroad programs. Some colleges even have partnerships with foreign universities, making the process smoother. Remember, studying abroad isn't just for language majors; there are programs for nearly every field of study.

Here are some universities known for their travel opportunities for students:

University of Evansville: They offer an elaborate Victorian manor house with over 100 rooms in the picturesque English countryside as a second home to their students and faculty desiring to study abroad. The program includes a combination of lectures, seminars, and travel​​.

Guilford College: They provide a 12th-century castle in the Italian Alps for their Brunnenburg Semester, where students combine study and work. Regular excursions to major European cities, landmarks, and historic sites are integral parts of the program​.

Emerson College: They have a Semester Abroad Program in Well, The Netherlands, where students spend a semester in a 14th century medieval castle, experiencing the culture and history of Europe​​.

Goshen College: Their Study – Service Team (SST) program is dedicated to serving a local community and total cultural immersion. It includes living with local families, studying culture and language, and working on a volunteer service project dedicated to helping the local village​​.

Franciscan University of Steubenville: They bring 150-200 students to live and learn in a 14th-century Carthusian monastery in Austria each semester. Weekly travel opportunities all over Europe are offered, including places like Salzburg, Vienna, and the castles of Germany​1​.

Extracurricular Activities: Beyond the Classroom

Joining clubs and organizations that focus on cultural exchange and global issues can further enhance your college experience. Consider joining or even starting a travel club, where you can share your experiences and learn from others. Participate in Model United Nations, join a language club, or get involved with a cultural exchange group. These activities not only allow you to engage with your passion for travel, but they also look great on a resume and can provide valuable networking opportunities.

Choosing the Right School

When it comes to selecting a college, consider schools that value international experiences. Some colleges have a strong international focus in their curriculum, offer numerous study abroad programs, and have a diverse student body. These schools will likely support your desire to travel and learn about different cultures.

Liberal arts colleges often emphasize a well-rounded, global education and may offer unique travel opportunities. Larger universities might have more established study abroad programs and partnerships with foreign institutions. Consider your personal preferences and learning style when making this decision.

Internships and Work-Study Programs

Internships and work-study programs can provide real-world experience and potentially offer more opportunities to travel. Look for internships with companies that have a global presence in your field of interest. Some colleges offer work-study programs abroad, allowing you to earn money while experiencing a new culture.

Gap Year: Taking Time to Explore

A gap year is a year taken off between high school and college. More students are choosing to take this time to travel, volunteer, or gain work experience. If this interests you, discuss it with your college admissions counselor. Many colleges are supportive of gap years, as students often return more focused and mature.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Traveling and studying abroad can be expensive, but don't let that deter you. Many colleges, organizations, and even governments offer scholarships specifically for students studying abroad. Start researching early and don't forget to fill out the FAFSA to see if you're eligible for any financial aid.

Here are a few examples of scholarships and financial aid that support international travel for undergraduate students, based on recent research:

Gilman International Scholarship Program: This is a program of the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, providing scholarships to U.S. undergraduates with financial need for study abroad, including students from diverse backgrounds and students going to non-traditional study abroad destinations.

Fulbright U.S. Student Program: This program offers research, study, and teaching opportunities in over 140 countries to recent graduates and graduate students.

Boren Awards: These provide unique funding opportunities for U.S. undergraduate students to study less commonly taught languages in world regions critical to U.S. interests, and underrepresented in study abroad.

Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships: These are offered for graduate students studying abroad in one of Rotary’s six causes: peacebuilding and conflict prevention; disease prevention and treatment; water, sanitation, and hygiene; maternal and child health; basic education and literacy; and community economic development.

Fund for Education Abroad: This independent organization is committed to increasing access to international education by providing scholarships and other resources to students who are underrepresented among U.S. study abroad population.

Each scholarship has its own eligibility criteria and application process, so it's important to read the guidelines carefully. Also, don't forget to check out the financial aid office at your prospective college or university. They may have resources specifically for students interested in studying abroad.

It's Time to Enrich Your College Experience with Travel Opportunities!

College is more than just attending lectures and writing papers—it's an opportunity to broaden your horizons, gain real-world experience, and create lasting memories. One of the best ways to accomplish all this is by taking advantage of the travel opportunities many universities offer.

Imagine studying art history while standing in front of the Mona Lisa, or learning about sustainable ecology while exploring the Amazon rainforest. Picture yourself practicing your Spanish in the bustling streets of Madrid, or diving deep into the rich history of the East in Shanghai or Mumbai. This is the kind of immersive, unforgettable learning that travel opportunities can provide.

Incorporating your love for travel into your college experience can make your university years unforgettable. By choosing the right school, participating in study abroad programs, selecting a relevant major, and getting involved in extracurricular activities, you can satisfy your wanderlust while gaining a valuable education. Remember, the world is your classroom, so get out there and explore!

At ClarifyEd, we understand the transformative power of these experiences. That's why our team of seasoned college admissions coaches is committed to helping you find the right college with the best travel opportunities that align with your academic and personal interests.

Whether you want to study abroad for a semester, participate in a short-term cultural immersion program, or embark on a faculty-led international research project, there's a program out there that's perfect for you. And we're here to help you find it.

Contact Us Today

Don't miss out on the chance to enrich your college experience and shape your future in remarkable ways. Start your journey with us today and open the door to a world of opportunities that will expand your mind, challenge your perspectives, and foster your personal growth.

Let's turn your college years into a passport to a global education!

Team ClarifyEd