“I’m Already Abroad” Should International Students Study Abroad? written by Clare Ong | photographed by Gia Kim | designed by Anvitha Nekkanti | modeled by Sarah Shabib
Navigating the choice between embarking on yet another cultural adventure or deepening U.S. connections: International students weigh the pros and cons of studying abroad Bittersweet goodbyes, loved ones a timezone away, and a constant lingering homesickness — being an international student isn’t easy. Still, studying in a foreign country is one of the most exciting and transformative adventures you can experience. With every semester spent in the U.S., I discover new things about myself and grow fonder of living abroad. But should one of those semesters be spent somewhere new? I’ve gone back and forth on whether to study abroad at BU. As an international student, I’m already abroad. Should I focus on building my early career and network in the U.S.? Or take the rare opportunity to experience life in a new country? What if I struggle to adjust to yet another unfamiliar culture? Studying abroad as an international student involves different considerations than a local student. International students already have a “sense of travel and learning and culture,” said Tessa Graebner (ENG ’25), who studied in Madrid her sophomore spring. Studying abroad in Madrid actually brought Graebner, a German citizen, closer to home. She felt at ease in Europe, didn’t face culture shock, and didn’t need a visa because of her European Union citizenship. International students who are experienced with adapting to new cultures may have an advantage when studying abroad. Yelisey Kazakevich (COM ’25), a student from the Czech Republic, who has done two BU abroad programs, said adjusting to the U.S. was his “most challenging culture shock” and “having that experience definitely made transitions to both London and L.A. a lot easier.” “People have a misconception that if you’re international, then you shouldn’t be taking a semester abroad since you grew up abroad,” said Kazakevich. “I disagree… the joys of studying abroad have been a fundamental part of my time at Boston University.” BU’s plethora of study abroad programs was one reason I came here. However, when I had to choose between studying abroad and pursuing a minor I’m passionate about, I chose the minor.
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