Student Identities Abroad: Adults Abroad

Students who pursue post-secondary studies later in life may face unique challenges as study abroad participants. Concerns such as finances, staying on track for graduation, fulfilling responsibilities at home, dependent support, and developing relationships in the host country may be more prevalent amongst this student population. Despite these obstacles, non-traditional students can have a fulfilling study abroad experience that can positively influence their academic and career development. In fact, adult students can have certain advantages over traditional students when they study abroad. Non-traditional students have more life experience and can gain deeper insight into the culture and politics of the host country.

Questions to consider with an Advisor/by yourself:

  • What are some challenges that I have as a non-traditional student at my home university, and which of these do I think can impact my study abroad experience?
  • What type of study abroad program is the best fit for me and my situation?
  • What responsibilities do I have at home that may influence the duration and location of my study abroad program?
  • If you have a spouse and/or child: Will my spouse and/or child(ren) go with me abroad? How will this affect my time abroad and my living arrangements?
  • How will I manage not being able to work while I am abroad? Will I be able to take a leave of absence from work to accommodate time abroad?
  • How do I feel about spending a lot of time with younger students?
  • What kind of living arrangements would be ideal for me/give me the most independence?
  • What opportunities are there for me to develop friendships with people my age in my potential host country?
  • What skills do I want to gain or improve while I’m abroad? How will studying abroad enhance my academic, personal, or career goals?
  • How do people in my host country view adult students?

Tips for having a positive study abroad experience:

  • Look into FLEAPs or short-term summer programs if you cannot afford to spend an extended period of time away from your family and can’t take too much time off work.
  • Sometimes you might feel that you don’t fit in, but remember not to isolate yourself from the rest of the group. Get to know the others and let them get to know you.
  • Think through the exact obligations you may have that prevent you from studying abroad and consider what solutions you might have so you are still able to study abroad.
  • Talk with other adult students who have studied abroad.

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