Education overseas and the many myths surrounding it

I’m sure I speak for a lot of us when I say that taking the next step in our education has been
both enticing, as well as terrifying. While there are a lot of compelling reasons to want to take
such a decision, the fact remains that it is a rather big decision. We see that coveted
institution name, and recognize the prospects and prestige that it may offer… but then get
bogged down by a ton of worries as what we believe to be reality comes crashing down on
us. But that right there is the ticket folks. What many of us consider to be the hardships and
realities of education overseas are really not as bad as we make them out to be. In fact, quite a
number of them are just flat out not true.
That brings us to todays article, wherein we sus out some of the more prominent myths with
regards to studying abroad, and set the record straight along the way.

I’d really like to study abroad, but I’m sure it’s too expensive
This myth in particular has no doubt been one of the key factors that brought any plans of
studying abroad to a screeching halt. The main reason being of course, that it might seem to
be true on the surface level. What isn’t as widely known though is that the expense of
studying abroad depends on a number of factors such as the program in question (For
example is it a law course or an engineering course as well as the subjects they offer), the
length of the program (How many years it will take), as well as the location the program
(which country or state it is in). There are of course some other smaller factors like
accommodation (we’ll get to that), and consumables, length, location and program type are
the “big three” so to speak. Taking this into account, a little research and you are likely to
find a course that is within your budget range after all. But that’s not the end of it. Really
dead set on going to a premium top of the line institution? You still have options. You can
apply for grants and student loans for one thing. Moreover, many institutions offer
scholarship programs to help prospective students such as yourselves bridge the gap and
afford the college of your dreams.

But I don’t know their native language. Studying abroad is impossible for me
Another popular dream crusher. The idea of going to a nation where you don’t know their
language is bad enough. But having to stay for how many ever years in said country and have
to study in said language? Absolutely panic inducing. Fear not though folks. This too is very
much a myth. For one thing English has become the standard for international education. So,
it’s quite likely that your dream institution also teaches in English (Better to err on the side of
caution and make sure of course). The point is that while we certainly recommend you learn
the local language of wherever you decide to study, it is by no means a deal breaker. Unless
of course you consider English to be a foreign language. Considering you’re reading this
article though I’m going to assume that’s not really an issue.
I’ll be all alone and won’t really know anybody
While not as widespread as the prior myths that we have covered, this one in particular is the
type to just sit at the back of one’s mind and cause unease, the important thing to remember
here is that even in this feeling of loneliness you wouldn’t be alone. After all any
international program would have a number of souls who left familiar shores seeking their
fortunes in an unknown land. You are likely to find that the bonds you form studying abroad
can generally be the real lasting kind. Of course, the advance of technology means that a
familiar face is but a click away. While its still a daunting choice that one needs to come to
terms with, it is once again no as bad as that dark little corner in your mind is trying to make
it out to be.

But I’ll be stuck in a foreign country without any way to ensure proper
accommodations

This one is often associated as a package deal with the first myth we tackled. The thought of
being so far from familiar territory with not much say over where one can live is after all
pretty frightening. But yet again, just like with the first myth, you have more options than you
think. It’s just a matter of having to seek it out. Many study programs offer a number of
different accommodation styles, such as dormitories, apartments, or staying with a host
family. There are of course positives and negatives regardless of what option you choose, but
really it boils down to a matter of personal preference. Want more privacy and flexibility?
The apartment is for you. Want to have a more social experience with your fellow students?
The dorm system is right up your alley. Or you could get a roommate in an apartment.
Staying with a host family can really let you experience the cultural and daily differences in
life overseas. The point is that while you may think that your stay abroad would be very
chaotic, more often than not there are programs and systems in place to help you out.

My safety is at risk studying abroad

Another one of those little thoughts that keep nigging at the back of our heads causing
apprehension. Once again this is one that has a small kernel of truth. The world doesn’t
guarantee safety, and the fear of the unknown on top of that only makes it worse. What’s
important to keep in mind though is that any study program worth its salt offers the assurance
of safety and security within their domains. Simply put, the dangers that are there at home are
the very same you will find anywhere else. As long as you keep your wits about you and
think before you act, you should find that everything will be fine.

The major I wanted isn’t available abroad

While it might feel that way on a preliminary look, the reality of things folks is that the world
is actually really big. While you may need to put in a little more effort in research, it is almost
certain that you will find the course you desire. Whether you want to major in a single
subject, branch out more, or pursue a combination of subjects, believe you me folks there is a
program for you.

Most employers don’t value foreign experience

This one is a personal favorite of mine seeing as it’s a myth on two extremes. On one hand
people believe that employers do not value foreign experience or degrees. On the other hand,
is the faction of people who are convinced that employers care about nothing but the fact that
you studied abroad. The truth of course is right in the middle. Foreign experience is
absolutely considered by most employers but it is hardly the only factor that they consider.

The pandemic makes considering a degree abroad far too risky

This one has to be the most current myth and worry by far. The pandemic did after all
completely blindside us, and confine us to our homes for the better part of a year. That said
though the pandemic has been with us for around 2 years now. In that time most universities
have brought about policies and restrictions to adapt to the situation. In fact, the pandemic
has caused a number of universities to offer their courses online. So, if that’s something that
you can get behind the option is certainly available.

Well, there you have it folks. We hope that this article has been able to allay at least some of
your concerns about studying abroad. That said, we can understand that the prospect of
researching the globe for that one program you want to take up can be rather stressful. And
sure, the overall process is complicated. Fortunately, this too has a solution.
Overseas consultancies such as ikounselor do a wonderful job of getting prospective students
in the know about everything they need to keep in mind while considering their preferred
course abroad. Whether it be finding the right program, ensuring you have the required
criteria, or the visa formalities, they will endeavor to make the whole process as streamlined
as possible to aid you in choose the best course for you.
And that’s all that we have for you today folks. Once again, we hope that this article has been
at least a little informative and dispelled some of the myths regarding overseas education. We
wish you both success and glory in your chosen field. Good luck.