Why Study Abroad?

Have you ever dreamed of traveling to another country and learning about a culture and a place different from your own? Do you want to gain global skills and experiences that will help make your resume or transcript stand out? Or are you looking for an experience that will help you learn more about yourself – as a student, a global citizen, or as a future leader?

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience and one of the most rewarding things you do in college. There is no better way to learn a language or learn about a culture than to be immersed in that culture, speaking the language. While being immersed in a different cultural setting may seem scary at first, it's also exciting and allows you to discover your own strengths and abilities as you overcome challenges and encounter situations in an unfamiliar setting. As you learn to adapt and interact with people from different backgrounds, you become better at defining your own beliefs. Students studying and traveling abroad have the opportunity to make friends from around the world and expand their worldview. The mind opening experience allows you to gain perspective on other cultures. You return home a more informed and less-biased individual.

In terms of the benefits relating to your degree and education, a study abroad course on your transcript shows colleges and employers you are independent and able to embrace and conquer challenges.
So, what are you waiting for?

How Can CCBC Students Study Abroad?

CCBC offers a variety of options for students wanting to study abroad that vary in length, cost, and supervision. These options include

1. Short-term (one week to one month) travel studies programs led by qualified faculty and staff
2. Studying abroad through one of CCBC’s partner colleges, for either short-term or long-term
3. Semester-long options where students, with the assistance of the Global Studies office, identify the school or program abroad that they wish to attend

Students can use any of these study abroad options to earn credits under International Travel Studies, which fulfills the degree requirement of Global, Historical and Cultural Perspectives for both the Associate of Arts and Associate of Science. Each of these opportunities exposes you to a new language, culture, and place which could forever change your worldview– and maybe even yourself. Begin your journey today and contact the Coordinator for Global Studies, Professor Annie Nguyen, at 443-840-4362 or anguyen@ccbcmd.edu.