Why you should study abroad:

1) Academic credit. It is possible to get academic credit through most study abroad programs. As long as the program is sponsored by any college or university, and you can prove to your academic advisor that the classes fit in your general education or major requirements, you should be fine.

2) Career enhancement. According to Bill Hoffa of Amherst College, students who study abroad have a distinct advantage when it comes to landing a good job after school. International experience is becoming more important in the work force.

3) Variety of options. Campuses are becoming more flexible in allowing their students to study with other organizations and receive credit. Going through your own school is one option for studying abroad, although it may not carry the classes you are looking for, and you may not fulfill basic requirements. For example, most University of California campuses require two years of a foreign language, a 3.0 GPA and junior status before applying to go abroad.

4) Going abroad for a substantial amount of time will definitely change you as a person and the way you see the United States. "You become globally conscious in a world that is becoming interdependent," according to Hoffa.

Questions to ask a study abroad advisor:

What are the requirements to apply for your study abroad programs?
Do you have schedules for this particular program?
If not, how can I find information?
What are the average class sizes and how many citizens from the United States are usually in a class?
Are there outside activities or classes that can bring me closer to the culture that I am in?
What can you provide or suggest for insurance?
If there is an emergency (death in the family, sickness), what is your policy for leaving early?
What does your organization do to help in the planning stages for those going abroad?
Can I call/E-mail past participants to ask about their experiences?