Culture Shock 2: Returning Home

The interest in studying abroad, particularly in ESL, is on the rise around the world as students seek to obtain a university degree from traditional or online schools to advance their job opportunities. However, students need to decide if studying abroad will help them reach their objectives.

First, try to determine whether studying abroad will really help you in your future or if going overseas is just a fad or rite of passage for citizens in your country. Ask people who have studied overseas if the experience has helped them educationally and financially in the long run.

Second, consider what impact studying abroad will have on your family. Will it be a financial burden to study overseas? What are your family's expectations for you once you return to your country?

Third, think about whether you really are flexible and open-minded enough to endure the challenges of adjusting to a foreign culture. If you feel comfortable with your answers to these questions, then you should proceed and look into studying abroad in more detail.

Randall's articles on this site reflect his own personal perspectives and opinions, and these ideas do not constitute an endorsement for any specific organization or Website.

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Pronunciation Point:

Notice how the pronoun them is reduced to 'em.

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