Non-traditional Students

Non-traditional students often have different responsibilities, such as those tied to families, profession, and other obligations at home, which do not affect many ” traditional students” in the same way. Thus, it is important to consider these factors when studying abroad. There are a variety of programs with a variety of lengths to consider. Many traditional students have various life experiences that often allow for deeper cultural exploration and various perspectives that can impact their and other participants’ study abroad experiences.

Things to consider

• Consider what makes you a non-traditional student, as it varies greatly. What resources do the host institution and host culture have to support my needs?
• Do I have other responsibilities at family, home, or professional obligations that will affect the study abroad program selection and length?
• Will there be any other participants on the program that I can relate to? Are there opportunities to connect with students and others from the host culture with whom I can relate or have more in common?
• What can I learn from my fellow participants and those from the host culture whom I may not immediately relate to?
• What type of housing accommodations would you prefer? Are those options available in the programs you are considering?
• How will this study abroad experience relate to and enhance my academic, personal and career goals?

Additional Resources

We have curated some additional resources, including networks, articles, blogs, etc. As you explore the impact that your identity will have on your study abroad experience, feel free to check out the information below.

Students who are comfortable exploring their identity here at NC State will be better prepared to engage with the issues raised above. To best prepare, you may want to consider working through identity-related questions and topics with campus resources.