Leap and the net will appear.
-John Burroughs
Already looking forward to your year in a foreign country?
Congratulations on making the leap. You're about to learn a lot about your host country, and even more about yourself. The time you spend abroad could alter the entire course of your life - in a good way. I'm living proof of that, and so are thousands of other people. During your study abroad experience, you'll be amazed, inspired, moved, awed, and exhilarated. But before you leave home and arrive in your new country, you may also be feeling a little confused, worried, and overwhelmed. Guess what? That's normal. Those of us who've already made the JYA journey were once in your shoes. That's where my book comes in. Before you leave on your great adventure, get yourself a copy of A Broad Abroad. Read it so you know what to expect during the coming year, and then take it with you when you get on the plane and leave home. Think of my book as an experienced traveling companion who doesn't snore, complain, or hog the bathroom. And be sure to check in with me during your JYA and let me know how you're doing. I love to hear from my readers! |
Still on the fence about the whole
JYA thing? Talk to the seniors at your school who are returning from their study abroad experience. Ask them what they liked best, what the biggest surprise was, and whether they'd do it all over again. My guess is that the answer to that third question will be a resounding "Yes!" Visit your school's director of study abroad programs as early in your sophomore year as possible - even if you're not completely sure you want to go abroad. Chances are there's a JYA program somewhere in the world that has your name on it. And oh yeah - pick up my book! As you read it, try to imagine yourself in the situations I describe. Do they sound interesting? If you consider yourself open-minded and curious, and if you love meeting people, then the study abroad experience is definitely for you. All you have to do is choose where in the world it's going to happen. |