Are you concerned you CAN’T study abroad?
So many UMaine students assume that studying abroad won’t be right for them. But that’s not necessarily true! We send many students abroad who are:
- From rural areas
- First-generation college students
- Pell-Grant recipients
- TRIO students
- First-time travelers
- English-only speakers
- From families and communities where traveling isn’t the norm
So if you’ve never pictured yourself as someone who might travel as part of their college education, you might wonder if you’re too late to the party. The answer? You’re not! They keys are planning ahead, being open-minded, and getting help. With these three things, you can absolutely add this once-in-a-lifetime experience to your education.
How are students like these still going on programs abroad?
By doing some research, planning, and reflecting ahead of time, the Education Abroad Team can empower you to find a supportive program that can meet your needs, address your concerns, and talk to your family about going abroad. The guide below will list some helpful questions any student can ask themselves to help navigate barriers they might encounter when considering whether to go abroad.
We’ve had many stories of students who never thought they’d be doing this, and then find that they are going to a fascinating new place to learn and become an experienced adult.
So what’s the real reason I should think about this?
Education abroad is a great way to expand your life experience and stand out when you go into the workforce. Skills that you already use as someone with a disability in the United States can serve you well when navigating a foreign culture, such as:
- Adaptation
- Resourcefulness
- Communication skills
- Navigating between different communities/cultures
Education abroad can be a great way to stand out when beginning your career and a means to build your self-knowledge, which can make an impact when applying for jobs and promoting yourself. We think everyone deserves to achieve these advantages if they want them. This isn’t just about having fun overseas – it’s about economic equity, too.
Download our guide below and feel free to contact the Education Abroad Team or the Office of Diversity and Inclusion with questions or concerns.
