Debunking the Myth: "Studying Abroad Is Only for Language Majors"
When people think about studying abroad, they often picture language majors roaming the streets of Paris, practicing French, or perfecting their Spanish in a bustling South American plaza. While these are fantastic opportunities, the reality is that studying abroad is for everyone—regardless of their major. At Living & Learning International, we are passionate about breaking down this misconception and showcasing how students from a wide variety academic disciplines can thrive in a global learning environment.
Where Did This Myth Come From?
Biology Students in Quito, Ecuador
The myth that studying abroad is only for language majors likely comes from the concept that immersion is the best way to learn a new language and the way movies and TV have portrayed study abroad experiences. While it's true that immersion can transform your language learning experience, study abroad programs have expanded dramatically over the years and offer much more than just language focuses. Today, students from a wide array of disciplines—business, biology, public health, history, arts, social sciences, and more—have access to programs tailored to their academic and career goals.
The Truth: Opportunities for All Majors
Theology Students in Rome, Italy attending the Faith & Food course
Cross-cultural experiences offer students the chance to gain unique perspectives and skills that are applicable to any field of study. Whether you're an engineering major ready to put your skills to the test to develop a backup water supply system in Ecuador, a business student eager to explore international businesses in Italy, or you're focused on public health and want to gain hands-on experience in professional settings, there’s a program for you. These experiences not only enrich your education but also help you stand out in a competitive job market.
How Living & Learning International Responds to This Myth
Living & Learning International offers a wide range of semester, summer, and short-term programs designed to meet the needs of students across all majors. Here are just a few examples of how our programs cater to diverse academic interests:
Business and Economics: Our programs in Quito, Ecuador, and Rome, Italy, offer courses that dive into international business practices and global economic trends. Imagine learning about microfinance while visiting local cooperatives in Ecuador or studying marketing strategies in one of the world’s fashion capitals.
Arts and Humanities: Our London and Rome programs immerse students in cities rich with art, history, and culture. From studying Renaissance masterpieces in Italy to exploring the literary history of England, students gain a deeper appreciation for the humanities.
Public Health and Social Sciences: In our East Coast program, students engage with urban issues, social justice, and community health initiatives. This program provides insights into the challenges and solutions facing major metropolitan areas.
Internship Opportunities: Across all our locations, we offer internships tailored to students’ academic and career aspirations. These hands-on experiences not only enhance learning but also build professional skills and networks.
And more! You can read about students' academic experiences in our programs or check out the course offerings on each of our of program pages.
International Business Students in Florence, Italy
Why Studying Abroad Matters for Every Major
The benefits of studying abroad extend far beyond academics. Students develop critical skills, such as adaptability, problem-solving, and intercultural communication—qualities highly valued by employers. Additionally, living and learning in a new environment fosters personal growth and a global mindset that enriches both your professional and personal life.
For example, consider a psychology major who studies abroad in Ecuador and completes an internship with a local mental health organization. Not only do they gain practical experience in their field, but they also develop a deeper understanding of how cultural factors influence mental health care. Or take an art student who spends a semester in Italy studying some of the world's most renowned pieces. They return home with knowledge and inspiration that could shape their future career.
Ready to Break the Myth?
At Living & Learning, we believe that studying abroad is a transformative experience for students of all majors. Our programs are designed to integrate seamlessly into your academic journey, ensuring that you can pursue your passions while staying on track for graduation. We've welcomed students everywhere from their first semester of college to their final months of their senior year!
Don’t let this myth hold you back. Explore our programs today and discover how studying abroad can enrich your education and prepare you for a global future.