For most sophomores and perhaps some juniors and seniors, the deadline for a very critical part of the coming year is quickly approaching—the deadline to submit a study abroad application. While this process can certainly be nerve-wracking and stressful, if you have the right idea about how to write the dreaded essay, it shouldn’t be a problem.
The Clarion is here to offer all study abroad applicants some helpful tips on how to conquer the nomination essay so you can say hola, bonjour, ni hao or what have you to your program next year.
Think about what you want out of your experience
If you’re applying to study abroad, chances are that you already know where you would like to study. But really try to delve and ask yourself why. Why this place over any other? What would you like to accomplish while you are here? Most importantly—how will this particular university further your academic goals?
“Whenever I do study abroad 101 sessions, I always ask students, ‘Who wants to graduate on time?’ and everyone always raises their hands. We want to see that students have considered their academic goals and can connect the program they choose with their plans in the future,” said Emilie Wardip, Study Abroad Assistant at the Office of International Education.
Do your research
Make sure to not only read the short profile provided on Passport, DU’s online system to research and apply for study abroad programs, but also more on the school’s own website and others related to it. Check reviews of the university and its study abroad programs on third party websites or message boards. You can also look at blogs from other DU students who have gone to wherever you are looking to attend at duabroad.com.
However, while you certainly want to ensure that this university is one that will fit you well and will benefit you in a holistic way, also make sure to pay careful attention to the courses that are offered. You can view course offerings on the program’s website, so definitely be sure to take a look at these while doing research. Some programs offer internships and other special opportunities as well, so take advantage of anything that will both offer a unique experience and help further your career goals.
“We want to see that students have been reflective and thoughtful and know what goals they have. Describe what classes you plan to take, and how these are relevant to major and minor. Be very specific. We want students to get the most out of their study abroad experience, so show that you’ve done your homework and really are an expert at this point,” said Wardip.
Don’t procrastinate
It’s a lot to ask for students to get started at this busy time of the quarter, but the long winter break is an excellent time to crank out the essays. While it might be tempting to take it easy and wait until the last minute to complete them, this is definitely not the way to go. You don’t want to start the essay, realize you have questions and not be able to get them answered in time.
“Ideally, students will have their essays completed by the first week of December, so that if they have any questions they have plenty of time to ask. However, while sooner is better, it also really depends on how much research the student has done. The essay may not be as strong if you haven’t done very much research,” said Wardip.
Use all available resources
These are essays, after all, so treat them like an essay you would write for class. Don’t just slop some words on the page and turn it in. Instead, take the time to edit and go over what you have written. Have friends look over and edit your writing, and consider using the writing center as a resource.
“We are on a college campus, and there are so many resources that are readily available to students. Use the writing center, as there is tremendous value in having an experienced writer look over your work,” said Wardip.
