Why Study Abroad?

Bring Your Studies to Life 

Follow in the footsteps of Sir Isaac Newton with physics courses at Cambridge. Trace the rise of Peter the Great in Russia's "Crown Jewel," St. Petersburg. Witness globalization in action in Goa, India.  Immerse yourself in the ecology and geology of Galway, Ireland. Practice Mandarin in Beijing. Join a service learning project while exploring the social history of Cape Town, South Africa. Language, art, religion, politics, social issues, government, and history come alive when the world is your classroom.

Open Your Eyes to Fresh Perspectives  

Challenge your assumptions. Reconsider what's "normal" and notice what you take for granted -- from how to greet a stranger to how a country is governed. Exposure to new cultures, languages, and ideas will enable you to examine your own beliefs, and see the world in a new way. 

{{youtube:large|gGOqu0c7xaM, Hear from some W&M students who have studied abroad.}}

Expand Your Professional Options  

Be distinctive. Less than 4% of U.S. undergraduates study abroad; yet universities, businesses, government agencies, and NGOs are all seeking candidates with international experience and cross-cultural communication skills. The skills you gain abroad can give you an edge in graduate school and your career. A 2015 IES Abroad survey revealed that 93% of study abroad alumni who entered the workforce secured a job within the first six months after graduation!

Engage with the World 

Gain first-hand knowledge of the world beyond U.S. borders. Witness global trends, geopolitics, cross-cultural encounters, and history where they happen. Practice what it means to live in a global and interconnected world. Meet people from backgrounds entirely different than your own. Memories and friendships forged overseas often last a lifetime.

GO GLOBAL! 

Visit the places you've only seen in pictures, learn about another culture, improve your foreign language skills, make new friends, develop intellectual pursuits, explore new perspectives, and enhance your resume. Go anywhere and study anything during a summer, winter, semester, or year.  William & Mary administers over 40 different study abroad programs in over 20 countries. And if we don't offer what you're looking for, we can help you find a program that does. Meet our staff and get started on your journey!