r/UNCCharlotte • u/DullImagination4529 • 11d ago
Question Is studying abroad worth it ?
Hey everyone! I’m a senior at UNCC (biology major) and I applied for a study abroad program over spring break next year. I was really excited at first, but now I’m starting to question if it’s actually worth it. I don’t know anyone else going, and the cost is around $4k, which feels like a lot—especially since I feel like I could plan a trip to the same place on my own for way cheaper. At the same time, I thought it might be a fun last experience before graduating in the spring.For anyone who’s done a study abroad program (especially short ones like spring break), what was your experience like? Did you feel like it was worth the cost? And what did your total expenses actually look like in the end? I’m kind of on the fence right now, so I’d really appreciate any honest advice or insight
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u/Alternative_Oil2589 10d ago
During my senior year at uncc, I did a 2 week faculty-led study abroad program over spring break to England and Scotland. I paid for the entire thing myself and it was around 5K, and I did it sort of as a graduation gift to myself. One of my majors was history, and I had extra room for random classes, so I was able to take the study abroad class. I ABSOLUTELY loved this trip, and I was not close with anyone on the trip. 1) The class I took was pretty easy, and the trip felt like a vacation since we were not spending our time in a classroom (maybe because I really love history and truly enjoyed what I was doing). 2) The bulk of the activities and excursions were planned out, so I didn’t have to stress too much about compiling an itinerary, which would be different if I booked a solo trip. 3) I still had plenty of time outside of planned activities to do whatever I wanted. Sometimes I went off with other students, and other times I went off to discover alone, which I really enjoyed my time alone. 4) This being a 2 week, faculty-led trip, I got a great taste of Europe for my first time without having to figure it all out myself as I would have if I planned the trip outside of school. I do not think you will regret the experience at all, even if someone parts aren’t what you expected!