Studying Abroad for 2026: Reasons, Challenges & Tips

by Imed Bouchrika, PhD

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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When you study abroad, you get a chance to participate in a world-class learning environment or get exposure to a diverse cultural set that may come in handy one day in one’s career. One also gets to expand one’s personal network when studying abroad. This can prove useful at work or one’s interest pursuits.

No doubt, foreign students will have to face the difficulties of studying abroad, such as the obvious financial and eligibility requirements. They will also need to adapt to a new culture, face homesickness, and may feel out of place at times, putting added pressure on their academic life.

This article tackles the debate on studying abroad and lays down the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad. It also presents the top destinations for foreign students. It is the article’s aim to help one make an informed decision on whether to study abroad and where.

Studying Abroad Table of Contents

1. Studying Abroad Takes Preparation
2. Advantages of Studying Abroad
3. Challenges of Studying Abroad
4. Top Destinations for Study Abroad Students
5. Tips for Studying Abroad
6. What are the mental health challenges faced by students studying abroad?
7. What visa and legal requirements must students consider for studying abroad?
8. How can accelerated degree programs complement your study abroad experience?
9. How can students ensure their personal safety while studying abroad?
10. How can students balance work and study abroad?
11. Alternatives to Traditional Study Abroad Pathways
12. What financial aid options are available for studying abroad?
13. Are there tailored study abroad opportunities for military-affiliated students?
14. How can online academic programs support your study abroad journey?
15. Are quick degrees that pay well a viable pathway for study abroad students?

Studying Abroad Takes Preparation

Problems students may face when studying abroad include learning new languages and adjusting to unfamiliar cultures. Study abroad (SA) students are not always linguistically and culturally prepared to take full advantage of learning opportunities. Apart from potential language and cultural barriers, students can also find it difficult to integrate themselves with their host community. One reason for this is that the goal of foreign students today is moving away from learning languages and towards programs in other fields of study.

Advantages of Studying Abroad

Why study abroad in the first place? There are plenty of reasons to study abroad as its benefits go beyond what the students learn in a foreign classroom. Being in a new environment that is culturally distinct, plus a chance to interact with the host community and fellow foreign students, presents opportunities that cannot be found in a local setting. Students who participated in a study abroad program have either a perceived strong impact in their lives, including civic engagement, knowledge production, philanthropy, and social entrepreneurship in relation to the participants’ current jobs. In addition, some students also said that studying abroad influenced them to continue their education into graduate school.

1. It expands cultural understanding

Viewpoints are often limited to a person’s environment, and studying abroad provides students a chance to see things from a different perspective. This is not meant to challenge or change the student’s beliefs entirely but provides a chance to see things from the other side and develop empathy. Researchers noted that studying abroad increases cultural awareness and knowledge of diverse beliefs, living conditions, and customs. For those who were able to do so, improvements were seen in areas of intercultural sensitivity, acceptance of new cultural norms, and how other cultures are viewed.

2. It broadens personal experiences

College students, especially freshmen who may be living on their own in a different city or state for the first time, are often exposed to new activities and traditions. However, while these experiences are different from what they are used to, these experiences can be quite familiar.

On the other hand, staying in a foreign location for an extended period of time takes a student completely out of his or her comfort zone. It immerses students in a culture different from their own and allows them to be creative in adapting to it. In addition, students pick up valuable life skills such as learning to live independently and manage daily activities like budgeting, shopping, cleaning, etc.

3. It improves foreign language skills

Learning a new language will always be a major benefit for everybody. Studying abroad provides the right environment and the motivation to learn a new language. Being surrounded by local people who speak the language the student is trying to learn helps reduce anxiety while practicing. In addition, enhancements to both writing skills and listening are heightened when studying abroad.

4. It enhances educational experiences

Recent research continues to show that study abroad programs contribute positively to students’ academic and personal development. Students who participate in international education experiences demonstrate improvements in academic performance, including higher grade point averages and stronger study habits compared to their non-mobile peers (Institute of International Education, 2025). In addition, study abroad participation is associated with increased self-confidence, independence, and the ability to navigate unfamiliar environments, as well as enhanced intercultural competence and the capacity to form meaningful connections across diverse cultural contexts (Institute of International Education, 2025). These outcomes highlight the broader impact of global learning experiences on both academic achievement and personal growth.

5. It increases future employment prospects

Graduates with international study experience are often valued by employers for their global perspective and ability to work across cultures. In today’s labor market, employability outcomes and global competencies are increasingly prioritized, with employer surveys continuing to assess how well institutions prepare graduates for international and professional environments (QS, 2025). This reflects a growing demand across industries for individuals who possess intercultural communication skills, adaptability, and the ability to collaborate in diverse, global settings—qualities commonly developed through study abroad experiences (QS, 2025).

In addition to the demand for international students in different sectors, SA students also have the advantage of having a multicultural experience and knowledge of diverse beliefs, living conditions, and customs. In addition, those who studied abroad are more prepared to engage in the global marketplace.

6. It teaches self-reliance and increases self-efficacy

Studying abroad offers a more immersive path to independence compared to attending a local university, as students must navigate unfamiliar environments, cultures, and responsibilities on their own. This experience often strengthens self-reliance and personal growth, as learners adapt to new academic and social settings. Recent research shows that students who participate in international education programs report higher levels of confidence, resilience, and self-efficacy, along with improved ability to manage stress and achieve personal goals (Institute of International Education, 2025). Compared to their peers who remain in domestic institutions, these students also demonstrate greater independence and higher overall life satisfaction, highlighting the transformative impact of studying abroad.

7. It opens up opportunities for travel

Travel is a very welcome side effect of being a student in a foreign land. No matter where the school is located, opportunities for travel to new places tend to increase. For example, a student stationed somewhere in Europe can use a free weekend to visit nearby countries and learn more about the different cultures in the continent. For students in less expansive areas, regular jaunts within the entire breadth of the host country are very feasible and highly encouraged.

Challenges of Studying Abroad

While studying abroad offers many benefits, it also presents a range of challenges that students must be prepared to face. Common concerns include homesickness, being far from family, financial constraints, academic adjustment, language difficulties, and cultural barriers, all of which can affect a student’s overall experience. Recent research highlights that international students frequently encounter adaptation challenges related to unfamiliar educational systems, social integration, and daily living conditions, which may also impact their well-being and academic performance (Frontiers, 2025). Despite these difficulties, understanding these challenges in advance allows students to better prepare and develop strategies to navigate their study abroad experience successfully.

1. Homesickness 

Homesickness remains a significant challenge among students studying abroad, particularly as they adjust to living independently in unfamiliar environments. Separation from family, friends, and familiar surroundings often leads to emotional distress, with research showing that international students commonly experience anxiety, loneliness, and depressive symptoms linked to homesickness (Lei, Jin, & Sun, 2025).

These emotional difficulties can affect students’ well-being and academic performance, especially when support systems are limited in the host country. Despite these challenges, homesickness is widely recognized as a normal part of the adaptation process, and many students gradually overcome it as they build new social connections and adjust to their new environment (Lei et al., 2025).

Home Sick Home

Source: Source: HSBC

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2. Course requirements of existing curriculum

Some students perceive studying abroad as a potential disruption to their academic progress, particularly those who aim to complete their degree within a strict timeline. Concerns often center on the possibility that credits earned abroad may not transfer fully, or that participating in an exchange program could extend the time required to graduate. Recent research indicates that uncertainty about credit recognition, curriculum alignment, and degree requirements remains a significant barrier preventing students from pursuing international study opportunities (OECD, 2025). These concerns highlight the importance of institutional support systems that ensure credit transferability and academic planning for students considering study abroad programs.

3. Language and cultural barriers

International students face a host of academic concerns as well as cultural and language barriers, especially during their first few months. Academics, in particular, is bound to suffer unless students hurdle the language and cultural context. Foreign students who are not proficient in English are usually offered assistance through additional language courses, but often the structure of these lessons is not designed to deal with the academic requirements.

Language and cultural barriers remain significant challenges for international students, particularly in English-medium education systems. Many students report difficulty meeting academic language requirements, which can affect their comprehension of course materials, participation in class discussions, and overall academic performance. Recent studies indicate that language proficiency continues to be a major factor influencing student success, with many international learners experiencing academic setbacks and adjustment difficulties due to limited language skills and unfamiliar cultural expectations (British Council, 2025). In addition, cultural differences can affect learning styles, communication with instructors, and integration into academic communities, further shaping students’ educational experiences abroad (British Council, 2025).

4. Financial difficulties

The cost of studying abroad can be steep. Unless they belong to the wealthy class, international students often face financial difficulties during the course of their education. Understandably, tuition fees are much more expensive for them compared to local courses. Even in the face of free universities that one may find abroad, costs can still come in the form of accommodation, food and transportation.

In addition to academic requirements, adapting to life in a host country often involves substantial financial responsibilities, such as living expenses and housing costs. Many international students report stress related to the uncertainty and rising cost of living while studying abroad, particularly when combined with unpredictable work rights and visa conditions that make it difficult to supplement their income (INTO University Partnerships, 2025). These financial pressures are widely cited as a key barrier to participation in study abroad programs and can influence students’ decisions about where and how long to study overseas.

5. Dietary and health issues

International students often face challenges accessing adequate and culturally familiar foods when studying abroad, which can affect their emotional well‑being and academic performance. Research from 2025 shows that many international students experience food insecurity—defined as difficulty obtaining enough nutritious, culturally appropriate, and safe food—because of financial strain, limited access to familiar food options, and institutional barriers (Waite et al., 2025). These experiences can contribute to stress, dissatisfaction, and a sense of disconnection from home, as students must often choose less desirable or less culturally familiar foods in order to cope with limited resources and high living costs (Waite et al., 2025).

In terms of physical and mental health, international students often face unique challenges compared to domestic students. Research indicates that they may engage more frequently in risky behaviors, such as smoking, substance use, or gambling, while simultaneously being less likely to seek professional help for mental health issues, relationship difficulties, or substance use problems (Okanlawon, Tan, & Li, 2025).

Despite experiencing similar levels of general psychological or financial stress as local students, international students are often constrained by cultural, social, or systemic barriers that reduce help-seeking behaviors, highlighting the need for targeted support and mental health interventions in host institutions (Okanlawon et al., 2025).

Top Destinations for Study Abroad Students

Students might find themselves overwhelmed when choosing where to study abroad. Considerations are given to selecting schools that offer the same subjects needed to complete a course. It is a matter of checking with their local university if credits from the host school will be accepted. Outside of school credentials, the host country is also a big factor. Students often look for desired traits in the target community, including culture, transport options, cost of living, social life, and sometimes even weather and food.

The local language of a host country is an important consideration for study abroad, as both academic success and daily life depend heavily on effective communication. International students often choose destinations where language barriers are minimized, and English‑speaking countries remain among the most attractive for this reason.

Four of the top English‑speaking destinations—the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada—accounted for a large proportion of internationally mobile tertiary students enrolling in OECD and partner countries, underscoring the continued preference for study environments where English is the primary language of instruction (OECD, 2025). Among non‑English speaking destinations, countries such as France, Germany, and Türkiye still attract significant numbers of international learners, but the predominance of English in global education explains why many students prioritize language familiarity when selecting where to study abroad.

Tips for Studying Abroad

Previous to enrolling in a program abroad, students must be able to assess their educational priorities and realistically gauge their capabilities to mount a prolonged stay overseas. This is not limited to financial capacity, but should also have an honest take on the mental preparedness to study in a different system under a different culture, and possibly using a different language.

Once a student makes the decision to push through with studying abroad, preparations should be undertaken as soon as possible to ensure a smooth transition. The usual pieces of advice range from the practical to the social and includes the following: getting familiar with the local community (including commuting, places of interest, and supply centers), develop an adaptable budget, and maintain a reliable communication system back home. Below are additional and equally valuable insights that can help students make the most of their limited time studying abroad.

1. Know the host school and its rules

It is natural for foreign students to want to know more about their host country, the culture, and its people. In the excitement to do so, however, students sometimes forget to scout the host school. Outside of the brochures and online reviews, students are encouraged to take a closer look at their chosen university and gather information on how to best maximize their stay. In addition, it is also prudent to check how the host university’s system works. This includes getting to knowing the university ideals, organizational structure, grading system, and hierarchy, which can help students understand better and manage their expectations.

2. Check the validity of college credits

For all the work to be done while studying abroad, getting the requisite college credits should be the major end result. First off, know how many credits you will need for a bachelor’s degree. Then,  take pains to ensure the validity of your earned credits should happen before studying abroad, as once the program starts, it will be very difficult to reverse course.

A good starting point would be to align your current course with your study program. Students should check with both the study abroad office and the registrar’s office of the home college to see if they will award study abroad course credit from the former. Even if the answer is yes, the student should still submit a detailed list of all the classes for enrollment and have each approved for credit. As much as possible, the student should secure an official document attesting to the fact. Assuming all the above has been worked out, it also pays to check with the home government (Education ministry) if they will accept these credits as valid in future licensure applications.

3. Check the university rankings

For more competitive students, getting accepted into top-ranking universities is an achievement in itself. While it may be easy to pick a famous school based on popularity alone, for instance, comparing Oxford with Cambridge, the evaluation should go deeper than that. Plenty of organizations have devised ranking systems that list the top colleges and universities worldwide. As these organizations use different metrics, students can choose which metric is closest to their objectives and use them as their basis. 

4. Look up student support resources 

The international center is a great starting point for foreign students upon arrival at the host university. This office provides information on everything a newbie will need to navigate around campus. Apart from being an information kiosk, the international center often provides additional services, ranging from tutorial and translation assistance to first aid, and frontline counseling. If nothing else, other foreign students with the same concerns can usually be found here. As such, there is an opportunity for SA students to meet likeminded people and form new friendships.

Outside of the international office, students need to take time to learn the locations of other helpful centers: housing services, health center and counseling services, legal services, campus police, tutoring services, and writing/computer centers. There also many be offices that deal with travel grants, scholarship, and research opportunities.

5. Learn to network with locals and take notes

Studying abroad presents an opportunity for students to share their experiences with people back home. While it may be easier and more convenient to hang out with countrymen or fellow foreign students, it limits a student’s chance to learn more outside their home country. Attending events, parties or communal activities are ideal to meet other people and engage in cultural exchanges. Conversing with locals also provides practice opportunities to improve communication skills. Looking over student organizations and deciding which ones to join can also enrich a visiting student’s experience. Getting friends and acquaintances outside the classroom widens a person’s network substantially and can be helpful after graduation.

6. Ask for help

Foreign students should strive to reduce communication gaps, whether they are caused by language or culture. Students are highly encouraged to ask questions if there are parts of the coursework that are difficult to understand. Financial assistance centers and outreach groups are also available to receive those in need of assistance. Remember that choice of people to ask for help is not limited to the campus. A regular visit to the local embassy can help keep in touch with the homeland. If the student is leaning into religion, occasional trips to the local house of worship may help with spiritual needs.

7. Secure health insurance

Nothing is more frightening than getting sick away from home. Unless, it is one of those situations where the student is not insured, and the host country does not have universal health care. The United States is a prime example of a country where health care costs are very expensive.

Depending on the type of student visa issued, health insurance may or may not be mandatory. Regardless of visa type, students should include some type of health insurance in their planning, especially if they plan to stay in the U.S.

8. Get an international student ID (ISIC)

Carrying an acceptance national ID is standard for most countries, so imagine the inconvenience of not being able to produce a valid ID outside your hometown. International Student Identity Cards (ISIC) is a post World War II solution developed to provide foreign students with a valid and universally accepted form of identification. Students who purchase an ISIC will also receive numerous benefits, including free admission to exhibits and shows, discounts on purchases, or free items.

What are the mental health challenges faced by students studying abroad?

Studying abroad can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it also comes with mental health challenges that are often overlooked. Here are some common mental health issues faced by students studying abroad:

• Culture shock: Adapting to a new culture can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of confusion, anxiety, and isolation. Many students struggle with unfamiliar customs, language barriers, and different social norms.
• Homesickness: Being far from home, family, and friends can trigger feelings of loneliness and sadness. This emotional toll can affect students' overall well-being and academic performance.
• Academic pressure: Studying in a foreign educational system with different expectations and teaching methods can cause stress and anxiety. Students may feel the need to excel while dealing with language challenges, adding pressure to their mental health.
• Social isolation: Forming new social connections in a foreign country can be difficult, especially for introverted students. This lack of support can lead to feelings of isolation and exacerbate mental health issues.
• Financial stress: The cost of living abroad, managing personal finances, and unexpected expenses can contribute to mental strain. Financial concerns often create additional stress, especially for students from modest backgrounds.

What visa and legal requirements must students consider for studying abroad?

Navigating the visa process and legal documentation is essential for a successful study abroad experience. Students should research the specific visa category that aligns with their academic program and ensure they prepare all required documents well in advance. This includes proof of enrollment, financial statements, health insurance, and any language proficiency certifications as stipulated by the host country. It is advisable to verify timelines and apply early to accommodate potential delays. Furthermore, students are encouraged to consult their home institution’s international office or legal advisors for guidance on compliance with both home and host country regulations. For those exploring alternative educational pathways, consider the easiest BA degree as part of a broader academic strategy.

How can accelerated degree programs complement your study abroad experience?

Accelerated academic programs offer a strategic route for students looking to streamline their educational journey while preparing for international studies. These programs provide a condensed curriculum that can align with the scheduling constraints of study abroad, enabling students to meet graduation criteria faster without compromising academic depth. Additionally, an accelerated route may serve as a stepping-stone toward pursuing advanced studies overseas by ensuring that essential credits are earned efficiently. For example, students interested in expediting their progress might consider the fastest way to get an associate's degree as part of their academic planning. Evaluating the structure, accreditation, and credit transfer policies of these programs ensures they complement the rigorous commitments of studying in a foreign academic environment while enhancing overall career readiness.

How can students ensure their personal safety while studying abroad?

Students should develop a tailored safety strategy by first researching local crime statistics, understanding cultural norms, and identifying secure neighborhoods near their place of study. Establishing a reliable emergency plan—including registration with the local embassy, familiarization with campus security services, and consistent communication with local contacts—is essential. Additionally, learners are encouraged to adopt proactive risk management practices, such as safeguarding personal documents, using reputable transportation, and remaining informed about regional advisories. In parallel with academic planning, integrating safety measures into one’s study itinerary can create a balanced and secure international experience, while alternative educational paths like an online vocational school provide flexible learning options without compromising personal well-being.

How can students balance work and study abroad?

Balancing work and study while abroad can be one of the most challenging yet rewarding aspects of the experience. While studying abroad offers tremendous academic and personal growth opportunities, managing a job alongside coursework can help alleviate financial stress and provide valuable work experience in an international context.

Many international students take on part-time jobs, both on-campus and off-campus, depending on their visa restrictions. These jobs not only help with living expenses but also offer a chance to immerse oneself further into the host culture. Working in a different country can teach essential skills, such as time management, cross-cultural communication, and problem-solving, which are highly valued by employers worldwide.

However, it is important for students to carefully manage their time and ensure that work commitments do not interfere with their academic responsibilities. Staying organized and setting clear priorities are essential strategies for maintaining a healthy balance between work and study. Additionally, students should seek out job opportunities that align with their academic interests or career goals to maximize the benefits of both work and study experiences.

For students looking to continue their studies after returning home, online options, such as the most affordable master's degree online, can be a flexible alternative. These programs allow students to work while pursuing advanced degrees, making it easier to balance work, study, and personal life.

By planning ahead and being mindful of workload, students can make the most of their time abroad while gaining invaluable skills for their future careers.

Alternatives to Traditional Study Abroad Pathways

For many students, the idea of studying abroad through a traditional program may not be feasible due to time, financial constraints, or other personal circumstances. However, there are alternative pathways that still provide international exposure and academic advancement.

One noteworthy option is pursuing an accelerated bachelor degree online. This allows students to complete their education at a faster pace while potentially participating in short-term international exchanges or virtual study programs. Universities offering such degrees often integrate global learning components, giving students a chance to interact with peers and educators worldwide, even from the comfort of their own homes. For more information about how to leverage this flexible learning model, visit this comprehensive guide on an accelerated bachelor degree online.

Virtual international internships, foreign language immersion programs via online platforms, and participation in globally networked learning communities are additional avenues to gain international experience. These options are especially beneficial for students who may not be able to commit to a semester-long program abroad yet still seek to enrich their academic and professional journey with global insights.

In exploring these alternatives, students can achieve similar benefits of studying abroad—such as cultural understanding, global networking opportunities, and skill enhancement—while accommodating their unique life circumstances.

What financial aid options are available for studying abroad?

Securing adequate funding is essential for making the most of your international studies. Students should explore a diverse range of financial aid opportunities, including institutional scholarships, governmental grants, and private fellowships tailored for international education. Detailed research into both home and host country programs can uncover awards, reduced tuition rates, and unique budgeting strategies that reduce out‐of‐pocket expenses. In addition, evaluating student loan options and regulated part-time employment can offer further financial relief. For those seeking a more cost-effective or flexible learning route, accredited alternatives such as trade schools online should also be considered as part of a comprehensive financial plan.

Are there tailored study abroad opportunities for military-affiliated students?

Military-affiliated students often require flexible study abroad programs that account for service commitments and unusual schedules. Institutions catering to these students typically provide adaptive academic counseling, credit transfer solutions recognizing military experience, and hybrid or online learning options that merge global exposure with schedule flexibility. Such programs enable military students to integrate international perspectives into their careers without compromising service obligations. For those seeking alternatives to traditional campus-based education, several institutions offer resources through nationally accredited online colleges for military to support their academic journey.

How can online academic programs support your study abroad journey?

Integrating online academic programs with a traditional study abroad experience can provide flexible learning options that help maintain academic progress during international relocations. Hybrid models allow students to supplement in-person courses with digital coursework, ensuring that unexpected scheduling conflicts or local challenges do not delay degree completion. Moreover, these programs offer tailored short-term modules and accelerated academic tracks that can enhance overall career readiness. For instance, students planning to balance extended travel with advanced research may benefit from programs like 2 year PhD programs online, which offer efficient and globally recognized credentials while accommodating cultural immersion. This blended approach not only maximizes the educational benefits of both virtual and on-campus learning but also fosters adaptability and continuous skill development in a rapidly changing global academic environment.

Are quick degrees that pay well a viable pathway for study abroad students?

International students can leverage accelerated academic pathways to bolster their global career prospects. Fast-track programs provide an efficient route to gain professionally relevant skills and credentials while reducing the time needed to enter the workforce. Such programs demand careful evaluation of program accreditation, credit transfer agreements, and post-graduation employment outcomes. Many institutions are now aligning their curricula to meet the rigorous benchmarks of the global market, offering opportunities that support both academic excellence and rapid career advancement. Prospective students are encouraged to explore options like quick degrees that pay well to assess how these streamlined educational models can complement their study abroad experience.

Studying Abroad is a Golden Opportunity

Getting an education while simultaneously living in a different culture gives students an international perspective that can prove valuable in a global market. Even a short course or a semester studying abroad can bring long-term benefits to the student. As mentioned earlier, a sizable majority of study abroad students confirm that it was a life-enriching experience. Those considering seizing this opportunity must also be prepared for the challenges. What challenges do people face when they live or study abroad? These include not only getting ready to live in another country but also learning the inner workings of the school to be attended.

In order to maximize this opportunity, students should invest time and effort in preparing for a program. Studying at the host university as well as its home country’s culture and way of life can help ease the integration process. This can also reduce any misgivings arising from language or cultural issues.

Schools with study abroad programs should be more active in promoting these opportunities, even at the freshman level. Ideally, students should clear if the program’s study abroad course credits will be accepted in the home university. This can help assuage fears from students who do not want to miss out on graduating on time. Life-changing endeavors do not come without challenges. Studying abroad is in such a situation, where the reward of becoming a global citizen is possible only through the willingness to expand one’s boundaries.

Key Insights

• Cultural Exposure and Networking: Studying abroad offers students a unique opportunity to experience diverse cultures and expand their personal and professional networks, which can be beneficial in their careers and personal growth.
• Academic and Personal Growth: Students often experience improved study habits, increased self-reliance, and higher levels of self-efficacy and confidence, contributing to both academic success and personal development.
• Language Skills: Immersion in a foreign country provides an ideal environment for learning and improving foreign language skills, enhancing both communication abilities and cultural understanding.
• Employment Prospects: Graduates with international experience are often viewed favorably by employers, particularly in industries requiring global interaction, due to their broadened perspectives and adaptability.
• Challenges: Common challenges include homesickness, financial difficulties, language barriers, and adapting to a new academic environment. Being aware of these issues can help students prepare and mitigate potential negative impacts.
• Preparation is Key: Proper preparation, including understanding the host country's culture, securing necessary documentation, and being aware of available resources, is crucial for a successful study abroad experience.

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