#GlobalStudies

[highereducations]

Achieve Your International Study Goals: Immigration Solutions for Students who wants to study abroad

Study abroad offers a transformative educational experience that can significantly enhance your personal and professional growth. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in a new culture, gain a world-class education, or expand your global network, studying abroad provides unparalleled opportunities. This guide explores the benefits of studying abroad, the application process, and how to navigate the various aspects of international education.

How to Apply for Study Abroad Programs

The process of applying to study abroad programs involves several steps. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the application process:

Choose Your Destination and Program: Research potential study destinations and programs that align with your academic and career goals. Consider factors such as the quality of education, living conditions, and cultural aspects of the country.

Prepare Your Documents: Gather and prepare necessary documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and proof of language proficiency. Some programs may also require standardized test scores like the GRE or TOEFL.

Submit Applications: Apply to your chosen institutions and programs. Ensure that you meet all deadlines and requirements for each application. Some institutions may also require an application fee, which should be paid promptly.

Apply for a Student Visa: Once accepted into a program, you will need to apply for a student visa for your destination country. The visa application process varies by country but generally involves providing proof of acceptance, financial stability, and health insurance coverage.

Plan Your Finances: Studying abroad can be a significant financial commitment. Explore scholarships, grants, and financial aid options available for international students. Create a budget that includes tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and insurance.

Prepare for Departure: Once your visa is approved, make final preparations for your trip. This includes arranging accommodation, booking flights, and familiarizing yourself with the local culture and customs of your destination.

Studying abroad is a life-changing experience that offers numerous benefits, from gaining a world-class education to expanding your global perspective. By following the steps outlined in this guide and preparing thoroughly, you can maximize the rewards of your international educational journey. For expert guidance and support throughout your study abroad process, consider consulting with an immigration or educational advisor.https://www.y-axis.com/visa/study/

[ieltstrainingindehradun]

From airplane mode to taking flight!🛫✨

From airplane mode to taking flight!🛫✨ Ready to soar to your dream university? With Turning Point Studies Consultants, your dreams are just a flight away!🎓✈️

#DreamUniversity #StudyAbroad #TurningPointSuccess #studyinusa #usa #GlobalStudies #FlyHigh #StudyAbroadLife #StudentDreams #AchieveMore #IELTSPrep #PTE #StudyMotivation #Turningpointdehradun #dehradun #ieltstraining #overseaseducation ##like #follow #education

[knowledgenook]

Broaden your understanding of society and culture with Kiya Learning's social science classes in Singapore. We cover topics like sociology, anthropology, and geography, Kiya Learning online social science courses provide insights into human behavior and social phenomena. Join us to explore the complexities of the social world.

[abroad-education-consultancy]

Consider studying abroad in Canada with Career Bridge Group!

Canada is a top choice for international students seeking premier global educational experiences due to its excellent education system, tolerant multicultural environment, and lucrative professional opportunities. Career Bridge Group, as a pioneering international education consultant, presents your golden ticket to pursue education in this dynamic landscape. Are you interested in studying in Canada? The Canadian education system is renowned for its world-class institutions and welcoming culture. It offers endless opportunities for personal and professional growth. Keep in mind that the cost of tuition can vary widely depending on the institution and program you choose. Some universities may offer scholarships or financial aid to international students, which can help offset some of the expenses.

Canada presents an unsurpassable choice for international students. If you have further inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us. In Canada, diversity in the educational curriculum is monumental, with a plethora of programs spanning undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies. The globally recognized degrees - from renowned institutions like the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, and McGill University - not only fortify your academic credentials but also escalate your employability quotient. Career Bridge Group helps you enter the prestigious Canadian education system with an in-depth understanding. Guiding Your

Journey: Career Bridge Group

Studying abroad in Canada can be a daunting process, especially when it comes to navigating the complexities of international education. Fortunately, Career Bridge Group is here to help make the process smoother and less overwhelming for you. We offer a variety of services, including counselling, assistance with university selection, guidance through the application process, help with obtaining a student visa, and post-departure support. With Career Bridge Group by your side, you can feel confident and supported as you embark on this exciting journey of studying abroad. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns. Our experienced consultants will work personally with you, offering one-on-one guidance – from program choice, making sure that it aligns impeccably with your career aspirations, to understanding the costs involved and finding potential scholarships.

Life in Canada: More than Just Studies

As an international student in Canada, you'll have the opportunity to explore breathtaking landscapes, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and even work part-time while you study. Additionally, these experiences won't be limited to academic pursuits alone. This can pave the way for work permits after graduation and potentially lead to opportunities for permanent residency. As part of our comprehensive allied services, Career Bridge Group will assist in acclimating you to this new cultural milieu, helping global students feel right at home.

Final Thoughts

If you're interested in obtaining a world-class education in a country with exceptional living standards, Canada should definitely be on your radar. However, it's important to do your due diligence and plan accordingly in order to make the most of your experience. This is where Career Bridge Group can assist you - we're here to provide guidance and support to help you embark on a successful educational journey in Canada.

We look forward to navigating and demystifying the possibilities that studying in Canada can offer. Together, we will bridge the divide between your academic aspirations and the reality of studying abroad in Canada.

[hofculctr]

Hofstra University

Black Girl from Pyongyang A Book Presentation and Roundtable (in Spanish)

In 1979, seven-year-old Mónica Macías was sent away by her father Francisco Macías Nguema, the first president and dictator of Equatorial Guinea (West Africa) to be educated under the personal aegis of his ally, Kim Il Sung, ruler of North Korea. Within months, her father was executed in a military coup, and her mother became unreachable. Effectively orphaned, Monica Macias and two siblings had to make a life of their own in Pyongyang. At military boarding school, she learned to adapt to the new environment, speak fluent Korean, and handle weapons on training exercises.

Featuring:

Mónica Macías – author of Black Girl from Pyongyang

Enrique Martino – Universidad Complutense, Madrid

Yeon-Soo Kim, Rutgers University

Benita Sampedro Vizcaya, Hofstra University

Wednesday, May 4, 4:20-5:45 p.m. (Virtual Event)

Advance registration is required. More info and to RSVP visit https://news.hofstra.edu/event/black-girl-from-pyongyang/

[newboundsimmigration]

🌐 Ready to shape your future? Applications for Fleming College's Sep 2024 intake are open, and guess what? We're giving you a 35% application fee waiver! 🚀 Don't miss out – apply today and kickstart your journey to success! 🎓✨

[financewires03]

Best Student Loan For International Students In USA: Find Out Now

Studying in the United States is a dream for many international students, but it often comes with a hefty price tag. Tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses can add up quickly.

Fortunately, there are various financial options available to help international students achieve their educational goals.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best student loan options and financial aid resources tailored specifically for international students in the USA. Let's dive in!

Best Student Loans For International Students In The USA

For international students pursuing higher education in the USA, finding the right student loan is crucial. Here are the top options:

1. Federal Student Loans

When it comes to student loans for international students, federal loans are often the first consideration:

Eligibility Criteria: Federal loans are generally not available to international students unless they have a U.S. cosigner or meet specific criteria. These criteria may include refugees, asylees, or individuals with certain visa statuses.

Pros and Cons: Federal loans offer competitive interest rates and flexible repayment options. However, they can be challenging to secure due to eligibility constraints.

Application Process: International students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with their co-signers information. The cosigner must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

2. Private Student Loans For International Students

Private lenders also offer student loans to international students:

Explanation: Private student loans, provided by banks and lending institutions, can be an alternative when federal loans are not an option. These loans typically require a cosigner.

Key Lenders: Explore options from well-known lenders like Sallie Mae, Discover, and Wells Fargo, which offer loans for international students.

Interest Rates and Terms: Interest rates and terms vary by lender, so it's crucial to shop around for the best rates and conditions.

Eligibility Requirements: Private lenders may require a creditworthy cosigner, proof of income, and a U.S. bank account.

Best Government-Backed Student Loans For International Students

When it comes to financing their education in the United States, international students often face unique challenges, especially when it comes to government-backed student loans.

Unlike U.S. citizens or permanent residents, international students typically do not qualify for federal student loans.

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However, there are some government-backed loan options available to international students in certain cases:

1. Fulbright Program: While not a traditional student loan, the Fulbright Program is a prestigious international exchange program sponsored by the U.S. government. It offers scholarships for graduate study, research, and teaching assistantships to students from various countries. Fulbright scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, and health insurance.

Eligibility varies by country, and applicants must go through a competitive application process. If awarded, Fulbright can provide substantial financial support for international students pursuing advanced degrees in the USA.

2. Sponsorship by Home Country Governments: Some countries provide financial support to their citizens studying abroad. These government-sponsored scholarships or loans often come with conditions, such as a requirement to return to the home country after completing the education. Examples include the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission and the Brazilian government's Science Without Borders program.

3. State and Institutional Loans: A few U.S. states and universities offer loans to international students. These loans may have varying terms, interest rates, and eligibility requirements. Some examples include the state-based loans in New Jersey and the University of Minnesota's International Student Loan program.

4. Home Country Government Loans: In some cases, international students may secure loans from their home country governments to fund their education in the United States. These loans might require collateral or a cosigner, and terms will vary depending on the home country's policies.

It's essential for international students to thoroughly research and understand the specific eligibility criteria, application processes, and terms of any government-backed loan or scholarship program.

Additionally, students should explore alternative funding options, such as scholarships, grants, and part-time work, to supplement their educational expenses.

While government-backed loans for international students are limited, with careful planning and financial assistance, pursuing higher education in the USA is still attainable.

Scholarships And Grants For International Students

Apart from loans, international students can seek scholarships and grants to ease the financial burden:

1. Fulbright Program

The Fulbright Program is a prestigious international exchange program funded by the U.S. government. It offers scholarships for graduate study, research, and teaching assistantships.

Eligibility Criteria: Eligibility varies by country, but applicants typically need a bachelor's degree or equivalent.

Application Process: Applicants must apply through the Fulbright Commission in their home country.

Benefits and Limitations: Fulbright scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, and health insurance. However, competition is fierce, and the application process is rigorous.

2. University-Specific Scholarships

Many U.S. universities offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships can be merit-based, need-based, or both.

How to Find and Apply: Research universities and their scholarship opportunities. Follow the specific application guidelines for each scholarship.

Tips: Improve your chances of receiving university-specific scholarships by maintaining a strong academic record and submitting compelling application essays.

Financial Aid Options For International Students

Financial aid can come from other sources as well:

1. On-Campus Employment

Explanation: International students in the USA are often allowed to work part-time on-campus while studying.

Work Restrictions and Regulations: Understand the work restrictions and regulations set by your visa type.

How to Balance Work and Study: Prioritize your studies while managing part-time work to cover living expenses.

2. Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Information: OPT is a program that allows F-1 visa holders to work off-campus in their field of study for up to 12 months after graduation.

Eligibility and Application Process: OPT is typically available after completing at least one academic year. Application is through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

How OPT Helps Finance Education: OPT provides international students with valuable work experience and income to help cover educational expenses.

Student Loans For International Students With A Work Permit

International students in the United States who hold a valid work permit, typically through Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT), have an advantage when it comes to financing their education.

With a work permit, they can explore various options to manage their educational expenses:

1. Income to Cover Expenses: Students on OPT or CPT can use their earned income to cover tuition, living costs, and other educational expenses. This reduces the need for loans.

2. Reduced Loan Amounts: With the ability to contribute through work, international students may need to borrow less, which can lead to lower loan amounts and reduced interest over time.

3. Private Student Loans: Some private lenders in the U.S. may be willing to provide loans to international students on OPT or CPT. Having a source of income can strengthen your loan application and improve your chances of approval.

4. Loan Repayment: With a work permit, students can also start repaying any existing loans, reducing their financial burden after graduation.

However, it's crucial to exercise caution when taking on loans, even with a work permit. Consider the interest rates, repayment terms, and your future financial outlook.

Maintaining a budget and saving during your OPT or CPT period can help ensure a smooth financial transition while studying in the U.S. and beyond.

Tips For Managing Student Loan Debt As An International Student

Taking out student loans can be a significant financial commitment. Here are some tips for managing student loan debt:

1. Create A Budget

Creating and sticking to a budget is a vital financial skill that can significantly impact your financial well-being. Here's why it's crucial and how to do it effectively:

Importance Of Budgeting: 

Budgeting provides a clear snapshot of your income and expenses, helping you:

Control Spending: It prevents overspending by setting limits on discretionary expenses.

Achieve Goals: A budget helps you save for future goals, whether it's an emergency fund, a vacation, or paying off student loans.

Reduce Stress: Knowing where your money goes reduces financial anxiety and uncertainty.

Emergency Preparedness: Budgeting ensures you're financially prepared for unexpected expenses.

Tips For Creating And Sticking To A Budget:

List Income and Expenses: Document your income sources and all expenses, both fixed (rent, bills) and variable (entertainment, dining out).

Set Realistic Goals: Define achievable financial objectives, considering your income and expenses.

Categorize Spending: Group expenses into categories to identify areas where you can cut back.

Track Spending: Regularly monitor your expenses to stay on course.

Adjust as Needed: Be flexible and adjust your budget when circumstances change.

Budgeting Tools And Apps: 

There are numerous digital tools and apps, such as Mint, YNAB (You Need a Budget), and Personal Capital, that automate budget tracking and provide insights into your spending patterns.

These tools make it easier to create, manage, and stick to your budget, enhancing your financial control and stability.

2. Explore Loan Forgiveness And Repayment Programs

Loan forgiveness and repayment programs are financial lifelines for borrowers struggling with student debt. They offer relief by either reducing the outstanding loan balance or forgiving it entirely. Here's what you need to know:

Eligibility Criteria: 

Eligibility varies widely based on factors like loan type, profession, and repayment plan. Common programs include Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), Teacher Loan Forgiveness, and Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) plans.

How To Apply And Benefit: 

To benefit from these programs, follow these steps:

Research Eligibility: Understand the specific requirements of the program you're interested in. Ensure your loans qualify.

Meet Employment Criteria: Many programs require you to work in a certain field or for a specific employer for a set number of years. Fulfill these requirements.

Submit Required Documentation: Complete and submit the necessary forms and documentation, such as employer certification or income verification.

Stay Consistent: Keep making on-time payments and meeting program requirements while waiting for forgiveness or reduced payments.

Reap the Rewards: After meeting the program's conditions, you can enjoy reduced monthly payments, loan forgiveness, or a substantial reduction in your remaining loan balance.

These programs offer financial relief and can make student loan repayment more manageable, but it's crucial to understand and meet their criteria to reap the benefits fully.

Conclusion

Navigating the world of student loans and financial aid as an international student in the USA can be challenging, but it's not impossible.

By exploring federal and private loans, seeking scholarships, and considering on-campus work or OPT, you can make your American dream a reality while effectively managing your finances.

Remember to budget wisely and explore loan forgiveness programs when the time comes. With careful planning, you can pursue your education in the USA without drowning in debt.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can international students get student loans in the USA?

Yes, international students in the USA can get student loans, but they typically require a creditworthy cosigner who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

2. What are the best options for international student loans in the USA?

Some of the popular options include private lenders like Sallie Mae, Discover, and Wells Fargo. Additionally, some schools may offer institutional loans or scholarships for international students.

3. What is the FAFSA, and do international students need to fill it out?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is primarily for U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens. International students generally do not need to fill out the FAFSA, as they are not eligible for federal financial aid.

4. How do I find a cosigner for a student loan?

You can ask a family member or friend who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to be your cosigner. They should have a good credit history to increase their chances of loan approval.

5. What is the interest rate on international student loans in the USA?

Interest rates on international student loans can vary significantly depending on the lender and the cosigner's creditworthiness. Generally, they may range from 4% to 12% or more.

[duhocdanghuy]

Du học ngành Quan hệ Quốc tế 🌍 Bạn muốn trở thành một chuyên gia về ngoại giao, làm việc trong các tổ chức quốc tế hay cơ quan chính phủ? Du học ngành Quan hệ Quốc tế sẽ giúp bạn đạt được ước mơ đó! Khám phá các chương trình học, yêu cầu đầu vào và cơ hội nghề nghiệp sau khi tốt nghiệp.

👉 Tìm hiểu thêm

Hashtags: #DuHocQuanHeQuocTe #StudyAbroad #InternationalRelations #GlobalStudies #HigherEducation #CareerOpportunities

[bradford-international-alliances]

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Bradfordinternationalalliance #DBA #Globaluniversities #HigherEducation

#GlobalStudies #Leadership #Professionalgrowth.

[nestlingsinc-blog]

Latest USCIS Update: F and M Student Visa Policy through the Lens of Student Experience. For more details call us @ +91-8951980785 #USnews #usnewsupdate #usnewseducation #usnewsedu #usa #highereducation #studentvisa #usvisa #USStudentVisa #FVISA #overseasconsultants #careersuccess #globaleducation #overseaseducation #highereducation #higherstudies #AbroadStudy #HigherStudyAbroad #careerdevelopment #abroadeducation #Studyabroad #CareerTips #StudentLife #studyabroad #Global #MBA #careertips #globalopportunity #globalstudies #CareerDevelopment #global #mba #abroadstudy #higereducation #futureofwork #abroad #abroaduniversities

[buckysmania]

I get my fave English professor next year and im excited because her husband is also my 3 year long global studies professor and they are my fav people ever

they talk like eachother too so its just so entertaining

[ieltstrainingindehradun]

From airplane mode to taking flight!🛫✨

From airplane mode to taking flight!🛫✨ Ready to soar to your dream university? With Turning Point Studies Consultants, your dreams are just a flight away!🎓✈️

#DreamUniversity #StudyAbroad #TurningPointSuccess #studyinusa #usa #GlobalStudies #FlyHigh #StudyAbroadLife #StudentDreams #AchieveMore #IELTSPrep #PTE #StudyMotivation #Turningpointdehradun #dehradun #ieltstraining #overseaseducation ##like #follow #education

[knowledgenook]

Social science classes provide insights into human behavior, society, and culture. From history and geography to sociology and anthropology, social science classes in Singapore offer a multidisciplinary approach to understanding the complexities of the social world.

[stjohnsglobal]

Without a doubt, Paris has treated me well...

Paris has truly been nothing short of a dream, so much so that I wish I didn’t have to wake up anytime soon. It’s surreal— seeing things I’ve only watched in movies or read about. I’m blown away by the mere fact that I can just wake up and decide to picnic at the Eiffel Tower, or end my day by watching the sunset at Sacré-Cœur. The historical sites are wonderful, but I was also taken by the little wonders woven through the city, like the intricate architecture of the metro stations, or how the Parisians never fail to carry a book along with them on the train. Though a day is enough to fall in love with Paris, a month isn’t nearly enough to discover all the beauty it has to offer. I wish I could stop time for a moment here, but it’s almost like the brevity of it all makes me that much more grateful.  

Though traveling around Europe from here is convenient, I found little desire to venture out of the city, save for Barcelona. I knew I wanted to immerse myself completely in Paris, leaving the weekends for delving deeper into the arts and getting lost any way I could. The first excursion I went on was to Le Crazy Horse Caberet. For the longest time, I’ve been in love with the art of Burlesque; a bit risqué, it dramatizes striptease in a skillful, artistic albeit humorous manner, draped in Old Hollywood Glamour and Vintage Pin-Up. Everything about the show, from the production to the performers, was unbelievably beautiful.  

In the days to follow, I visited Shakespeare & Company quite a lot, choosing a random book and reading beside Aggie the Cat. Despite the many wandering visitors, the bookstore itself was intimate. It is a home for all those who love to read, myself included. My next outing was to the Louvre. I had no idea the museum was so massive! Unlike the size of the building, the Mona Lisa was tiny. It felt unreal standing in the same room as Leonardo da Vinci’s work. Musee D’orsay was next on my list. I was on a hunt for a particular painting: Dance in The Country by Renoir. It seems as though it only depicts a couple dancing happily, but if you look closer, you may notice that there is another person in the picture. Some interpret this painting as a hidden story of unrequited love. The woman outside the terrace seems as though she is longingly gazing at the man from afar, while he is staring closely at his dancing partner, who is beaming at the viewer outside of the painting. The secret admirer does not have a defined identity, but she has been dubbed by some as “The Peeping Woman”. A couple other outings I was able to experience was watching a ballet performance at Palais Garnier, walking up the Arc De Triumph, going to the top of the Eiffel Tower, seeing the Catacombs and strolling through the Palace of Versailles.

Every Wednesday, we would explore neighborhoods of Paris with the help of Matthieu, the Coordinator of Student Life. We first ventured to Champs-Elysees, where we discovered what is described by some as ‘the world’s most beautiful avenue’. Visitors flock to this street to shop, appreciating the high-end stores it has to offer. The next week, we made our way to Montmarte. By far, this was my favorite neighborhood. Matthieu explained that this neighborhood was enjoyed by visitors and locals alike. There were hidden gems sprinkled in every corner, like The Wall of I Love You and the its surviving windmills. The Latin Quarter was our next adventure. We painstakingly thanked the man that created the essay, Michel de Montaigne, by rubbing his foot. I tried Couscous, a North African delicacy, for the first time at Restaurant La Mosquée de paris, and it was wonderful! For our latest excursion, we went to the Marais neighborhood. We found ourselves in the Place des Vosges, which was a the oldest planned square in Paris. My friends and I visited L’as du Fallafel, a falafel sandwich restaurant whose line stretches down the whole street.  

For our Fall Break, I was fortunate enough to visit Barcelona, Spain. During Fall Break, I took a trip to Barcelona. Watching the Cheetah Girls strut through its streets gave me high expectations, and I’m happy to say, the city itself surpassed them entirely. We planned to visit Park Güell, La Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila, the Picasso Museum and the Magic Fountain. Each experience was beyond beautiful. My favorite place to visit was La Sagrada Familia. Walking inside was unreal. I have no words for how the light spilled into the Basilica through the stained-glass windows. The high-reaching walls and intricate ceiling was so well done, it looked like something out of a fairytale book.  

As my last detail, I’d like to include something personal. Last minute, I learned that my extended family’s business, Malagos Chocolate, was invited to Salon Du Chocolate, the biggest chocolate convention in the world, taking place in Porte de Versailles, Paris. Based in the Philippines, they farm and produce their own chocolate from Cacao beans. It was nice to see fans come up to my Lola, acknowledging her for her hard work. I was so happy to see her happy. It was lovely being reminded of home despite being almost 3,500 miles away from it.  

Without a doubt, Paris has treated me well. Though I’m still here, I already miss it. I’m so very thankful to Matthieu, Dheeraj, Farida and Isabelle for taking care of us. Ciao for now, Paris. I’m ready for Rome.  

Jillian K. Dorego, Fall 2019 Social Media Ambassador 

[hofculctr]

Hofstra University

Paths to Peace in Northern Ireland

Join us for a commemoration and analysis of the 25th anniversary of the historic Belfast/Good Friday Agreement which ended the Troubles in Northern Ireland. The challenges facing Ireland and Northern Ireland today are especially urgent in these times of post-Brexit consequences.

The symposium will discuss panel discussions.

11:30-12:45 pm PANEL: THE HISTORIC ORIGINS OF THE AGREEMENT

2:40-4:05 PM  FILM VIEWING and DISCUSSION: “WAVING GOODBYE TO THE DINOSAURS”: THE HISTORIC ROLE OF THE WOMEN OF NORTHERN IRELAND ON THE PATH TO PEACE.

4:20-5:45 pm ��      PANEL: THE CURRENT STATUS OF THE AGREEMENT: ITS SUCCESSES, CURRENT CHALLENGES, AND POSSIBILITIES FOR PEACEBUILDING.

Thursday, April 27, 11:30 a.m. – 5:45 p.m. Leo A. Guthart Cultural Center Theater, Axinn Library, First Floor, South Campus Admission is FREE and open to the public.

More info and to RSVP visit https://news.hofstra.edu/event/paths-to-peace-in-northern-ireland/

[stjglobal]

Travelling alone is an entirely different experience. It’s something that I would recommend everyone do.

I was sitting in a plane on my second solo-trip abroad just starting out on the book that I’d picked out for the trip, and the perfect line jumped out at me: “Her colleagues at school thought it odd that she loved to travel solo, but for Lily, making her own way and answer to no one were her favorite parts of the adventure.” It couldn’t have been more fitting for the trip I was embarking on and the topic I’d decided my next post to be on. Especially at a young age in new countries where you might not necessarily know the language, travelling alone seems like a daunting task.

 However, in the modern age of technology I think that it is easier than ever before to have a safe and fun adventure on your own. Not sure how to order a hot chocolate in the native language? Have Google Translate up on your phone. If you or a loved one is worried about you being alone, there’s a variety of different services that allow you to share your location. For the entirety of my trip abroad, my entire family has had my location 24/7 in case something happens, even when I’m safely in my dorm. Even more, there are apps that can help you when you feel unsafe, ratings on cab drivers and Airbnb hosts that ensure their credibility, and more.

 I am not someone who tends feel comfortable going out to do things alone, such as sitting at a proper restaurant or taking a flight. My first trip alone was a slightly spontaneous one to Switzerland. To avoid paying for somewhere to stay, I took an overnight bus that arrived around 8:30am and then another overnight bus back to Rome leaving at 10:30pm. In the small city of Zürich, there are obviously things I missed out on, but the packed day made me feel like I made the most of my time in the city. I started off with a free tour, went and walked through two museums, and got some food along the way. Surprisingly, I didn’t feel very alone throughout all of it. Walking tours and museum trips aren’t generally places you’d be having a lot of conversation, so I didn’t miss having a friend beside me. Furthermore, I was able to go at my own pace. No one was running into me when I stopped to take pictures or wanting to go slower or faster as I strolled through the museums. Even more so, I didn’t have to compromise where I wanted to go and get food for someone else’s sake. My second trip was to Edinburgh, Scotland, which was different given that rather than a bus-ride, it was now a flight and a weekend rather than day trip. I went to a different airport out of Rome this time, which was a bit overwhelming due to the different set-up of it, but most airports tend to be alike, and I found my way.

 Even though it’s not that big of a deal, it still was a practice in problem-solving and figuring things out on my own. Getting into the Airbnb alone was a bit nerve-wracking, because I have always been in Airbnb’s with a friend. It was actually rather nice to have a host that wasn’t around much when I was. Not being able to figure out the key at first was stressful, but once I was in and got to have the full queen-sized bed to myself, it was quite luxurious to have that space after being combined at the hip with my roommate for the last 3 months. Although I met up with a friend while there, I still had time to myself to do a free walking tour and grab some different food along the way before being shown the city. I am always someone who has liked alone time, but travelling alone is an entirely different experience. It’s something that I would recommend everyone do. 

People say that travelling abroad is all about independence and finding yourself, and while I think that can be dramatic to an extent, I see the benefit in experiencing new cultures in your own way. Being able to do this in different countries also has encouraged me to consider doing similar little weekend trips around America. A bus or airplane from NYC can take you millions of places, and now that I have conquered other countries, other places in America don’t seem so scary. The reality of being in another country with friends is that not everyone’s financial situation is the same. Some people have the ability to travel every weekends, and others don’t, but whatever category you fall into you should make sure to make the most of your time abroad. Short trips alone are the perfect way make the most of your time and see as much of this world as possible while growing individually.

 Spring 2019 Student Ambassador, Rebeka Humbrecht