Studying in another country is a life-changing experience that completely affects who you are as a person and what you’re goals become. Where you decide to study has a big impact on what you get out of the trip. If you’re weighing your options, both Europe and Asia have beautiful places to visit. What are the pros and cons of each? Read on to find out.
Important Factors To Consider
Before you put your finger on one particular point of the globe, think about what you want to get out of the trip. Here are six essential things to consider to guarantee an amazing, unforgettable experience.
- Your Personality
It’s OK to cater to your talents and strengths. They’ve got you where you are, so you must be doing something right. The question is, are you a bold adventurer who loves to seek out unexplored paths and try new things? Or are you passionate about quiet introspection and investigation?
- The Cuisine
Some of your best memories will be diving into the local cuisine with new friends. If you’re particularly attracted to certain culinary styles, traveling is the perfect opportunity to immerse your taste buds in the culture.
- Hobbies and Interests
If you’ve always wanted to walk the back streets of Bangkok, photograph the Forbidden Temple in Beijing or paint a portrait on a sidewalk in Paris, they’re experiences you can’t get anywhere else.
- Climate
Everyone is different. Some people love cool weather and somber backdrops, while others revel in traveling tropical climates armed with no more than your trusty backpack and khakis.
- Language
There’s no doubt about it: you will feel more comfortable in a country where your native language is spoken predominantly. However, there’s also something to be said for the excitement of learning new languages.
- Business Goals
This is a big one: when you study abroad – and earn university credits at the same time – it can give you a real edge on your CV. Potential employers know you can hack it when it comes to international business trips.
So how do Europe and Asia stack up against each other in the world of studying abroad?
Pros and Cons of Studying Abroad in Europe
If you choose to study abroad in Europe, you will never regret it – as long as you can afford it, that is.
- Rich architecture and philosophy
- Widespread English language use
- Business connections in affluent European markets
- Huge libraries with works spanning thousands of years
- More expensive accommodations and food
- Ease of travel between European countries
There’s nothing like seeing the Eiffel Tower in person, observing timeless classics at the Louvre or hearing your footsteps fall on London’s generations-old cobblestones. Also, with your passport and visa at arrival, you can travel freely between all borders of the United Kingdom and European Union countries. The costs are higher in Europe, but you will also have access to all the amenities you’re used to at home.
Why Study Abroad in Asia
People with an adventurous streak can’t get enough of the mysterious atmosphere present when they visit Asia for the first time.
- Exotic cultures
- Exciting opportunities to brush up on your Mandarin
- Tropical, jungle atmosphere
- Less expensive food and souvenirs
- Valuable knowledge of Asian businesses and customs
- Incredible culinary experiences
If you love to challenge yourself and explore, studying abroad in Asia is perfect for you. Visitors learn how to interact with individuals from wildly diverse cultures and see everything in life from a different perspective. You suddenly become the person everyone turns to when it’s time for out-of-the-box solutions or dealing with foreign clients. Also, being able to list fluent Mandarin on your CV makes you extremely valuable in a global economy where China is a major player.
Must-See Study Spots To Visit in Europe and Asia
Here are some places you just can’t pass up:
- London, United Kingdom: A melting pot of global influences, London culture can’t be typified. Influences from virtually everywhere congregate in front of a rich historical backdrop.
- Munich, Germany: The economic lifeblood of Germany, Munich is home to BMW and tons of other massive European companies. It’s a great blend of old-meets-new art, architecture and commerce.
- Verona, Italy: The birthplace of major exporters of all things Italian, Verona is also the perfect mixture of aged architecture and the gorgeous Italian countryside. Plus, it’s an easy jumping-off point to Venice.
- Beijing, China: Laidback and intriguing city markets match up with magnificent temples and lush gardens that are a treat to all your senses. Enormous tech companies and investors also call the city home.
Whether you opt for a trip to Europe or Asia, you’re in for an incredible journey –professionally and personally. Don’t be afraid to push your boundaries, but also focus on enjoying yourself. Plan ahead, but don’t be surprised when studying abroad in Europe or Asia blows away your expectations and rewards you even more than you could ever imagine.
