While there are certainly those among us who have no problem spinning a globe and allowing fate to decide where in the world we might go next, the majority of us consider a broad range of factors that will influence our decision about not just which country to choose, but which program to choose as well.

To pick a destination, you’ll need to engage in a little self–reflection. Start thinking about what you’re hoping to get out of your time abroad. A student looking for a challenging cultural experience or full immersion in a new language might choose a very different program than a student who would like to travel with a group while completing one or two courses.

Write down your goals for studying abroad (why do you want to study abroad?), the things you imagine you might do while you’re abroad, the place you might live in while abroad, and the people who might be around you as you study abroad.  Keep this in mind as you explore your options.