By Morgan Heinig
There has been a point for every student throughout college that’s considered studying abroad to get the experience of a lifetime. While the consideration is still there, the problem that stunts students most is the competitive part of the application process and the limited number of students accepted into each program.
As a public relations student at Texas Tech University visiting London over the May semester through our Study Abroad Program, I can help you with what you need to do to complete the application process appropriately and expect acceptance into the program that you choose.
The first step is to know which programs have partnered with your major and school to determine how much time you must prepare for the application process. Spreading out your time will make the process easier while also maintaining school. Your best bet is to start the process as soon as the application opens for students to apply because many students will be in the same boat as you, trying to figure out everything from first to last.
The second is to be ahead of the game and stay on top of every email you receive. Some study abroad programs require an interview to be conducted to even consider being accepted. You want to be the first person to sign up for the first interview. To that end, you want to be the first of everything, like completing all the modules on the application process way before the deadline.
Lastly, being recognized by the mentors responsible for the program will put you ten steps ahead of the game. Some of the mentors may have been a professor of yours. Take that opportunity to ask as many questions as possible, even if they have never been your professor. Show them gratitude for the process and how excited you are about this fantastic opportunity. Any form of communication, preferably email, will let your mentors know how much you want to be part of this program.
Even if you don't get accepted, don't worry. There is always another study abroad program that allows you the opportunity to start over. That also means remaining confident, and taking this advice will prepare you for the next steps ahead. I wish everyone the best of luck in choosing and applying for a program!
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