Study in London – The Joys of Study Abroad

College is a time for students to explore their potential, and one way to learn more about themselves and the world around them is to consider studying aboard. Moving away from the environment where they have grown comfortable to a place where they are constantly in the middle of new and exciting things is something that forces them to grow, learn and change, and for many people, it is the experience of a lifetime. When considering study abroad programs, London provides students with opportunities for a unique, international and urban experience.
One important thing to think about when considering going to study in a foreign country is how to prevent the habits of home from slowing progress. When students come to a foreign country, their first impulse is to stick with the students that share their culture and their language. In London, which hosts students from all over the world, this is particularly easy. However, one of the most important parts of a study abroad program is how it encourages people to reach out past themselves, towards people who are different from them. Make an effort to move away from the people from home and to embrace what local culture has to offer.
Remember that the city that where the program is taking place is not the only place to see. While London has enough sites to satisfy a visitor for ages, it is also within striking distance of some of the largest and liveliest cities in Europe. Whether a student wants to head for Paris or Glasgow, there are student fares available and plenty of free weekends to explore. Make the time to consider what destinations are pertinent to the course of study being pursued and also consider how they can be integrated into the course work. In some cases, a fun visit to an alternate location can be expanded into an independent study.
When preparing for a trip to study abroad, remember to have all paperwork accounted for as early as possible. For example, when coming to the UK, a student visa is required if the student intends to stay in the country for more than 18 weeks. The student visa allows the holder to attend classes and to reside in the country in question legally. This document can be procured up to 120 days prior to arrival in the host country from the UK embassy.
When preparing for travel, do set up times to contact friends and family at home. While studying abroad is exciting, there are also times when it can feel intensely lonely. Set up times to call, especially when the time difference is going to be large, and make sure that international calling has been set up prior to departure.
Studying abroad can be the experience of a lifetime, and there are many opportunities that are waiting for students of every discipline. While the class work itself is going to be challenging and intense, the memories made from simply living in a foreign country will follow the student for a lifetime.