Although we are in the middle of the summer, undergraduate students should be planning what they will do for the next school year. Last week, I met many rising college juniors and seniors interested in studying abroad but do not know where to travel. For some students, going abroad will be their first international experience with or without their friends and family. I remember feeling anxious and excited about my first study abroad experience when I was in your shoes. Although they are anxious about being away from their sense of normalcy, they are eager to challenge themselves and immerse themselves in different cultures. If that is also the case for you, let this post guide your study abroad adventures. With many places to choose from, this post will advocate why European cities are the perfect destinations for American students or students of other nationalities. First, let’s discuss Europe’s appeal.
What Makes Europe Appealing?
It’s no secret that Europe has a great appeal in many sectors. A previous post discussed why it is appealing in the tourism industry. In a post discussing France and Belgium, we related how these countries have global influences through their history, politics, cuisine, or comic strips. With all these aspects of our lives that Europe has influenced, it is justified to recognize its appeal in the education sector. Every country in the world is connected to Europe one way or another because of colonialism. European history has shaped much of the world’s social order because of its footprints in many places around the globe, thus making it a fascinating place to study. As the saying goes, “We cannot go forward without understanding the past.”
Although European colonial history connects every part of the globe to Europe, its central locations make travel to the Old Continent more appealing. From the Americas, Asia, and Oceania to Africa, traveling to Europe is accessible. Moreover, European countries are the only places in the world where foreigners can adapt quickly because of the similarities in cultures and familiarity with languages, and it provides less cultural shock than going to other areas. ‘Cultural shock’ is the disorientation and discomfort in a new and unfamiliar cultural environment. For example, as a black-American woman, I experienced a great deal of cultural shock going to China than I did in France or Belgium. Although there were some cultural shocks about living in a foreign land and not knowing the lay of the land, I had an easier time navigating France and Belgium. I spoke French with the locals and had encounters with other minorities. Although some people could tell I was a foreigner, for the most part, I could easily pass for a Black Frenchwoman or a Black Belgian, unlike when I was in China, the difference was apparent.
The Importance of a European Education
European influences are the number one reason why getting a European education is crucial. Whether you are studying politics, engineering, medicine, international relations, theology, or archeology, studying it in Europe, where you have access to places related to your field of study, gives you in-depth knowledge compared to someone who does not have that first hands-on exposure. In 2021, Europe received 1.52 million international students, a testament to the importance of European education. Learning from the European point of view will help you understand the roots of your field because Europeans have set the standards. Although I am interested in African Affairs, being educated in the United States only gave me ⅓ of what I needed to address development in Africa from a holistic perspective. Studying in France and Belgium and understanding their political influence postcolonialism gave me resources on how to approach development in Africa.
Moreover, the structure of European education institutions gives you more expertise in your subject matter. For example, undergraduate students in the United States go through the liberal arts educational system, which provides them with a broad and general overview of various topics. In contrast, European undergrads have the option to go to specialized schools. For example, European students can have a Bachelor in Law degree, whereas, in the U.S., you can major in English and apply for a Juris Doctorate(JD) as a postsecondary degree. When I studied in France in 2018, I studied at SciencesPo Rennes, which focused solely on politics.
Although I have a deep appreciation for a liberal arts degree and believe it does a great job of building well-rounded young professionals, being exposed to a specialized school allowed me to focus on my core courses, and I was not too distracted by other classes I had to take in a liberal art setting to fulfill my credit requirements. However, the educational structure is only one of the reasons a European education is crucial. As someone who has studied, lived, and vacationed in France, Greece, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium, to name a few, I believe that its cities are the primary reasons that elevate European education.
Why are European Cities Important?
Europe’s vibrant and culturally rich cities, such as Rome, Paris, Athens, Thessaloniki, Milan, Madrid, Barcelona, and Berlin, are the perfect destinations for studying abroad. These cities offer unique cultural experiences that are not just enriching but also exciting. From Brussels to Barcelona, Milan to Rome, Rennes to Paris, Ghent to Leuven, and Berlin to Athens, these cities offer unparalleled academic opportunities, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences. They have incredible cultural sights that provide great hands-on experience in whatever sector you are interested in, empowering you with practical knowledge and confidence. Let’s dive deeper into why European cities are the perfect destinations for students seeking to study abroad.
1. Academic Excellence
The first reason European cities are ideal for studying abroad is that the academic excellence of European cities is unparalleled. European cities boast prestigious universities and renowned educational institutions that attract students worldwide. For instance, Brussels, the administrative capital of the European Union, offers unprecedented opportunities for students interested in international relations, politics, and law. Barcelona, known for its exceptional architecture and design programs, hosts universities at the forefront of innovation. Milan, the fashion capital, is a hub for fashion and design enthusiasts, offering unique programs and collaborations with industry leaders. With its ancient history, Rome provides a rich academic environment for students interested in archaeology, classics, and art history. When it comes to academics, Europe offers a great selection of schools. Imagine doing a summer program at Oxford in England or spending an academic year at Sorbonne, France’s equivalent of Harvard. Wherever you decide to study in Europe, you will have the opportunity to boost your educational portfolio.
2. Cultural Immersion
Secondly, living and studying in a European city allows you to immerse yourself in a vibrant and diverse culture. Rennes, France, offers a blend of historic charm and a lively student atmosphere. Paris, the City of Lights, is a cultural mecca with world-class museums, theaters, and literary heritage. Ghent and Brugge in Belgium provide picturesque settings with their medieval architecture and canal-filled streets. Leuven, Namur, and Liege offer unique blends of history, student-focused environments, and Belgian hospitality. Imagine exploring historical sites, attending cultural festivals, and savoring local cuisines while expanding your global perspective. Walking the streets of Rome brings you back in history while being in the present. Europe offers an unmatched cultural immersion experience and cannot be duplicated. As an American student, Europe provided a different yet similar atmosphere that allowed me to build a new home.
3. Affordable Living Costs
Contrary to popular belief, studying in Europe doesn’t have to break the bank. Many European cities offer affordable living costs, making them attractive to American students. Rennes, for example, provides a high quality of life without exorbitant expenses. I discussed in a previous post how, through the CAF program, I saved a lot of money on rent, allowing me to use the money I saved to travel within the country without financial burden. Like France, Brussels provides affordable accommodation options and accessible transportation, ensuring a comfortable and cost-effective stay. Leuven, known for its prestigious university, offers a relatively low cost of living compared to other European cities. Living in any of these cities can allow you to explore the continent without draining your bank account.
My study abroad experience in France was an exchange. Therefore, I only paid in-state tuition, making it cheaper to study abroad in France. My master’s program in Belgium only cost me $2,000, allowing me to use the monthly stipend I received through the Fulbright program for my living expenses. Therefore, if you are interested in studying in Europe, know that it is affordable, and American students have a lot of opportunities to study abroad without any financial burden. This post shares local & national scholarships and grants that I have used(and others I am familiar with) to study abroad without any financial burdens.
4. Diverse Student Communities
In a previous point, I mentioned the cultural immersion that European cities offer. That point discusses the cultural immersion that being in Europe allows you to have. Here, I want to highlight the diverse communities European cities attract. European cities offer the opportunity to network with people from different walks of life. European cities are melting pots of cultures, attracting students from around the globe. The vibrant international community of Barcelona fosters a sense of belonging and encourages cross-cultural interactions. Ghent and Brugge, with their welcoming atmosphere, make it easy to connect with fellow students and build lifelong friendships. Leuven, Namur, and Liege have a vibrant student life, ensuring you never have a dull moment. In 2014, research found that Amsterdam had 180 nationalities, offering the opportunity to meet people around the globe. By interacting with these diverse communities, you will expand your network and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for different cultures. During my time in Europe, I made friends from Bosnia, Brazil, Germany, and Argentina, to name a few. Spending time with diverse communities allows you to discover a new world within another world. My experience living and studying in Europe allowed me to meet people and discover cultures I never knew existed.
5. Vibrant Cultural Scenes
The last but best reason international students should study in Europe is for its vibrant cultural scenes. European cities offer cultural experiences that will enrich your time abroad. The world-class museums like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay in Paris will ignite your passion for art and history. Milan, a hub for fashion and design, hosts international events and exhibitions that will inspire your creativity. Barcelona’s music festivals, such as Primavera Sound, and its iconic architecture, including Gaudí’s masterpieces, will leave you in awe. As a student majoring in international studies, being in Brussels provided me with the right network with people from the field. Everywhere I walked, I met someone to help me hone my skills and advance in my career. European cities provide a dynamic backdrop for your academic journey, ensuring that your time outside the classroom is as rewarding as your time inside. Hence, even after my studies, I travel back to Europe.
In conclusion, European cities offer an unrivaled opportunity for American students to broaden their horizons and embark on an unforgettable educational journey. From academic excellence to diverse student communities, these cities have it all. By choosing to live and study in cities like Brussels, Barcelona, Milan, Rome, Rennes, France, Paris, Ghent, Brugge, Leuven, Namur, or Liege, you will not only receive a top-notch education but also gain a deeper understanding of the world and yourself. So, seize the opportunity, step out of your comfort zone, and embark on a life-changing adventure that will shape your future and impact your personal and professional growth. The world is calling, and Europe is waiting to welcome you with open arms.
Until next time,
Have a safe travel experience!
Xoxo,
Cy
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