STUDY ABROAD: A GUIDE FOR WOMENIntroduction • Access to Information • Where to Find Information on Study Abroad
Other Important Considerations • The Testing and Application Process
Selection/Interviewing Issues • Terms and Conditions of Your Scholarship • Going Abroad
The first step in pursuing educational or training opportunities abroad is knowing what kinds of programs are available. Despite the highly-touted "information revolution," the availability and quality of information concerning international scholarship and training programs varies greatly around the world. For some people, learning about the existence of international programs is more a matter of chance than design. Several alumnae said that they knew such a possibility existed only because someone in their family had studied abroad. At some universities, program brochures are treated as privileged information by a few faculty who may decide to share them only with favored students. On the other hand, the situation is not uniformly bleak. One woman reported that staff from United States Information Service (USIS) visited her office and solicited her participation in a special program aimed at mid-career public administration professionals. Others have learned of opportunities on the radio, or in newspapers, or by word-of-mouth from colleagues.
Regardless of the situation in your country, the general availability of information, and the helpful or hindering attitude of those who hold the information, the key elements to success worldwide are PERSISTENCE and DETERMINATION and CONFIDENCE.
Keep in mind that no matter who or what you consult, the process of securing detailed, focused information takes effort. It is up to you to thoroughly consider all the benefits—and potential problems—associated with international education, and to be as specific as possible when you start your investigations. Try to pinpoint what and where and why you want to study abroad. Many programs are very specific in their requirements. Clearly defining your objectives will help you to find the right program to match your academic and/or professional goals.
Think creatively about where you might find information. Some programs distribute posters not only at universities, but also through the news media. The internet is a good place to go for information. Many programs have "home pages," as do many universities, which also may have information on their own scholarship programs, especially on the graduate level. If you do not have access to a computer, perhaps you know someone who does at home or at work.
Talk to people and explore every reasonable lead. Some people to whom you go for advice may be intentionally unhelpful, treating this kind of information as a state secret, or doling it out as if they are doing you an enormous favor. Others may genuinely not know the answer to your questions, and still others may send you, wittingly or not, in the wrong direction.
It is important to remember that all those from whom you seek advice will have their own experience and concerns, and they may not necessarily be the same as yours. For example, a number of programs have age limits and if you are too young or too old to fit into a particularly program's guidelines, you may get rebuffed at the first try. Or you may be questioned about your economic or family situation. Do not be discouraged! There are programs that do not have rigid age requirements, and there are many avenues to explore for financial assistance.
Attitude is very important. How you present yourself can make a big difference. If you project confidence people will often treat you more seriously. But if you are tentative or appear hesitant, it will be much easier for people to dismiss you and your request.
If you are absolutely committed to the idea of studying abroad, and have the academic standing, language skills, and financial resources required, your chances of achieving your goals are good—not guaranteed, but good. If, however, you allow a few early setbacks to become insurmountable obstacles, it is absolutely assured that nothing will happen. And while you may not find the program that meets all of your goals and dreams, studying in a country other than your own can be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of your life. So start the process. Ask questions. You may be surprised by what you discover.
What follows is a list of resources that may assist you in your search. Note that many of these sites tend to be located in large capital cities. If you live in a remote or rural area, you may have to travel to the largest nearby city to conduct your research. Before you go, you should write a letter, or telephone the appropriate office and make sure of their hours of operation, and that a personal visit will be worthwhile.