SUNY Oswego hosted the annual Study Abroad Fair for students on Sept. 13. 

The event allowed students to meet with either Study Abroad Mentors or faculty-led advisors. The process of applying to international academic programs can be difficult and confusing, but the primary objective of the program advisors was to make the notion of studying abroad easier to digest. The offered programs have varying lengths of time in their respective countries, lasting anywhere from a week up to a full year of foreign studying.  

Those interested should visit the Oswego Study Abroad website and social media page. The website allows searching by four main regions: Asia, Latin America, Europe and Oceania. Additionally, searches by program can also be made to determine the best academic fit. If visiting the fair was not an option, appointments to discuss choices are available, and emailing the study abroad office and advisors is the best bet for quick communication.

With most COVID-19 restrictions lifted from various countries across the globe, it is a great time to be a new student at an international institution.

Financial aid can cover a large portion of the costs, but it is still a large investment of time and money to study abroad. Some paperwork involved includes passports, visas, class transfers, scholarships and applications. The earlier you apply, the better. Even though university classes will be taught in English, it is ideal to be knowledgeable in the country’s language and common phrases used when eating, shopping and lounging.

Tyler Krompier is a global studies and economics major currently studying in Japan. 

 Krompier said, “It’s been exciting and fun. Studying abroad has not been that hard but, getting here and getting used to another country’s transportation system has definitely been fun.”   

Japan sports one of the best transit systems in the world.

“When I got to the airport, it was a little nerve-racking because I’m flying 14 hours from JFK to Tokyo and when I got there I was by myself, but it was alright when I got to the school. Definitely bring things that you would bring to Oswego, especially deodorant and toothpaste since it’s not the same formula in the US,” said Krompier. 

One of the most prominent challenges involved in studying abroad concerns different countries not offering the particular commodities needed in a specific situation. For instance, over-the-counter medicines, prescriptions, makeup or haircare products may not be present within the boundaries of a certain country; forgetting the small things may very well become a problem later down the road. 

Overall, the process of studying abroad presents a few challenges that can require intense planning and problem-solving skills. Being abroad for weeks on end without seeing family or friends back home is not suited for every personality, but those looking for adventure, a clean slate or a broadening of horizons may be interested in looking into this one-of-a-kind opportunity.

Photo via: SUNY Oswego