If the study abroad program has caught your eye, you might do well to think about what you’ll gain out of the experience versus what you might well lose. Tradeoffs abound in life, and the world of education is no exception. To help yourself figure out your most opportune path, you’ll do well to consider both aspects, rather than just the positives that others highlight.

Detractions to studying abroad: You’ll give up the life you’ve become accustomed to. While that’s probably great, and for the betterment of your person, it’s important to think about how that might affect you. You may lose touch with close friends, who, although interested in your doings, may lose sight of your friendship when they don’t see you every day. Upon your return from foreign study, you may have far fewer local friends. Also, your views are likely to change to an extent. This also may alienate you from friends and family. Studying far away from the influence of people you’ve known for a long time is very likely to expand your viewpoint on most issues, potentially creating conflict.

Positives of study abroad programs: You’ll make new, internationally based friends. The learning methods employed elsewhere will open your eyes to further educational possibilities, such as the Socratic teaching method. You’ll gain a much deeper understanding of current events, world events, and history. And you might just learn things that you never expected, whether that’s about other people’s perception of your country, or their fascination with your culture.

Like all things, good and bad can be found in foreign study. You have to decide what’s good for you!