Studying Abroad in an English Speaking Country

When exploring your options for where in the world you will study abroad, it is important to take language barriers into account. If during your studies you've found yourself fascinated by a foreign language, follow that intrigue and consider studying abroad with one of the Intensive Language Programs.

Now for some, the thought of moving to a foreign country and immersing yourself in a foreign language might be biting off more than you can chew. That is perfectly normal. If you are not comfortable adding a foreign language to the list of unknowns during your study abroad adventure, why not consider studying abroad in one of the many English speaking countries?

There are plenty of places around the world that will provide you the added comfort of speaking your native language. But don't overlook some of the other cultural differences that might be a bit of a shock to the system. No need to worry, it's nothing you can't handle!

Currency

One adjustment you'll have to make traveling to a new country is learning the local currency. In the United Kingdom you'll find pounds sterling, in the Republic of Ireland and the rest of the European Union you'll find the Euro, Canada uses their Canadian dollar and Australia, the Australia dollar.

In order to make this adjustment to a foreign country with foreign currency, you must be aware of the exchange rate. In your travels, make sure to stay informed on the fluctuation of your home currency and it's strength against the currency you may be using abroad. Prices may not be as cheap or expensive as they seem, it all depends on how their dollar relates to that of your home country.

Climate

When you're doing the necessary research about your study abroad destination, it is important to investigate the local climate for the time of year you plan to travel. First and foremost, you'll want to pack accordingly; but before we go over your packing list, let's consider how climate might factor into your destination decision making.

As can example, let's take a look at the United States of America. Now, planning a study abroad adventure to the U.S., you must remind yourself of its sheer size, all 50 states. There's quite a big difference from the east coast to the west coast and everything in between. The Northeast will guarantee you four seasons whereas the west coast will guarantee you sunshine and warmer weather for the majority of the year.

On the other hand, if Australia interests you as a potential study abroad destination, keep in mind that their seasons are opposite that of the northern hemisphere. Planning your travels around December into the new year will land you in the Australian summer - not a bad deal if you were hoping to escape a cold winter.

Make sure you know what kind of climate and what season you are entering in to and be ready to make some adjustments while you're away.

Local Lingo

You've heard the British refer to the elevator as "the lift," and you know the difference between chips, crisps and fries; but have you heard an Australian refer to a tank top as a "singlet"? Or a can of beer as a "tinny"?

Important to remember when traveling to a fellow English speaking country is the world's endless variations of the English language. We all have our own vocabulary with varying local lingo and slang terms. Moving into one of these regions where English is the official language will take some time to become fluent in the local speak.

The idea of adopting the local lingo might seem a daunting task but for what it's worth, it'll be a good excuse to make friends with the locals. They will be happy to give you a lesson on their vocabulary and slang that'll help you fit in with the locals in no time.

Now, with the local lingo comes the local accents. We all have them! Think of it this way, in a country as big as the United States, there are a vast number of regional dialects and accents. The same goes for the whole of England and Ireland, Canada and Australia. It all varies from place to place. You might find some thicker than others, but listen closely and don't be afraid to ask someone to repeat themselves. Do your best to keep up with these regional differences and before you know it, you'll be an expert in understanding the local dialects. You'll probably find yourself adopting some of their vocabulary to take home with you.

Making the Decision

Deciding to study abroad in an English speaking country could be in your best interest if you're looking to focus your time and your studies on learning more about your chosen field before immersing yourself in a foreign language. If this is the direction you choose to take on your study abroad adventure, make sure you are not overlooking some of the other cultural adjustments you will be making while you're away. Embrace these differences and take the time to get to know another part of the world, the culture and the people for all it's worth.