Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree – How to Make it Work
Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Maximizing School Breaks for International Travel
As a student, school breaks offer a key opportunity to satisfy your wanderlust on a budget. College students receive winter breaks spanning two weeks in December and another month off in summer. Meanwhile, graduate programs typically allot even more time away—some as long as five or six weeks—between academic semesters.
These periodic chunks of free time prove the perfect chance to pursue global adventures without disrupting your studies. Whether discovering a new culture solo or joining an organized study abroad program, getting out into the wider world enhances education beyond the classroom.
Take Clara, a senior studying journalism at Arizona State. To make the most of her winter and summer vacations, Clara slept on couches via Couchsurfing, took overnight buses between cities, and ate home-cooked meals with locals she met using the Meetup app. This allowed extended travels to Mexico, Thailand, Morocco, and elsewhere far more affordably than dorming on a standard American student budget.
"Packing multiple destinations into each school break let me experience so many places I may never have otherwise visited," Clara reflects. She credits these international exposures with helping land a dream internship in Madrid following graduation. "Being able to discuss what I saw, who I met, and what I learned really set me apart in interviews."
Fellow SUNY Binghamton grad Tony took a different approach, opting to deeply explore one new country per school vacation through immersive month-long language programs. Over three years, this strategy introduced Tony to Costa Rica, China, and Chile—not only improving his Spanish, Mandarin, and Spanish but providing invaluable cultural understanding as well.
"I still keep in touch globally with friends I made during those trips. They've since become a support system assisting my career mobility and possibly future relocation overseas." Tony now works for a financial tech startup allowing him occasional international business travel to replicate memories made maximizing his school breaks worldwide.
What else is in this post?
- Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Maximizing School Breaks for International Travel
- Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Finding Budget-Friendly Destination Ideas
- Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Using Airline and Hotel Rewards to See the World
- Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Packing and Preparing for Multiple Trips Each Year
- Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Choosing Degree Programs That Allow Study Abroad Options
- Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Interning Overseas to Gain Work Experience in New Cultures
- Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Working Remote Jobs or Online Freelance Gigs While Traveling
- Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Balancing Academics with the Opportunity to Vacation Worldwide
Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Finding Budget-Friendly Destination Ideas
When it comes to exploring the world on a student budget, one of the most crucial aspects is finding budget-friendly destination ideas. This topic holds great significance as it can make or break your ability to travel extensively while keeping your finances intact. By choosing affordable destinations, you can stretch your travel budget further and experience more of the world. Let's delve into the experiences of avid travelers who have mastered the art of finding budget-friendly destinations.
Meet Sarah, a recent college graduate who has managed to visit multiple countries without emptying her bank account. She believes that the key to finding budget-friendly destinations is to think outside the box and explore lesser-known places. Instead of flocking to popular tourist hotspots, Sarah researched alternative destinations that offered similar experiences but at a fraction of the cost. For instance, instead of heading to Paris, she ventured to Budapest, a city known for its stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife, and affordable prices. By opting for such hidden gems, Sarah was able to enjoy the wonders of Europe on a tight budget.
Another traveler, Mark, discovered the magic of Southeast Asia. He realized that this region offers incredible value for money, with a plethora of budget-friendly destinations. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the tranquil beaches of Bali, Southeast Asia has it all. Mark found that the cost of accommodation, food, and transportation in this region is significantly lower compared to many other parts of the world. This allowed him to extend his travels and immerse himself in the diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes of Southeast Asia without breaking the bank.
Research is a vital part of finding budget-friendly destinations. The internet is your best friend in this regard. Websites like Mighty Travels provide valuable information and insights into affordable travel options. Look for articles, travel guides, and forums that highlight budget-friendly destinations. These resources often reveal hidden gems, off-the-beaten-path locations, and budget travel tips shared by fellow travelers who have explored these destinations firsthand.
Flexibility is another key factor when it comes to finding budget-friendly destinations. Being open to traveling during off-peak seasons or mid-week can result in significant savings. Flight and hotel prices tend to be lower during these times, allowing you to stretch your travel budget further. Embrace the adventure of exploring destinations during quieter times, and you might be pleasantly surprised by the affordability and authenticity of your travel experiences.
Remember, finding budget-friendly destinations doesn't mean compromising on the quality of your travel experiences. It's about discovering the hidden treasures of the world while being mindful of your budget. By exploring lesser-known places, considering affordable regions like Southeast Asia, conducting thorough research, and being flexible, you can embark on unforgettable journeys without breaking the bank.
Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Using Airline and Hotel Rewards to See the World
Earning and redeeming points through airline and hotel loyalty programs represents a savvy way to make global exploration far more feasible, especially when juggling studies on a limited budget. With a bit of strategic planning, racking up miles and free night certificates unlocks the potential for free or heavily discounted transportation and lodging worldwide.
Just ask Felicity, who funded three quarters of a six-week backpacking adventure across Europe exclusively through points accumulated on her student credit card. “I was shocked when I realized I had enough rewards for flights to Rome and back from Athens plus 20 free hotel nights at budget brands like Ibis and Holiday Inn Express,” she explains. “I tried to earn and burn judiciously, like using public transportation or camping between point-funded stays to make them last the whole summer.”
By earning miles on every purchase and taking advantage of rewards credit card bonuses each time she applied for a new one, Felicity amassed over 150,000 points without ever paying interest or annual fees. She transferred points to United MileagePlus and British Airways Executive Club to book flights and used free night certificates for urban accommodations.
“My trick was applying for a new card every six months that offered 25,000 points or more just for meeting a reasonable minimum spend. I’d earn the bonus then cancel before the annual fee hit,” Felicity shares. She also recommends checking airline shopping portals before making any major purchases for bonus miles.
Mark also capitalized on points for a three-week Eurotrip but focused more on elite status benefits after earning mid-tier Gold status through a status match promotion and retaining it by strategically choosing one global airline alliance for all flights.
“Scoring lounge access, free checked bags, and priority boarding made travel so much smoother. I could work or relax outside my economy seat and pack light since bags flew free,” he explains. “The discounted business class upgrades were a real treat too - I ended up flying in a lie-flat pod on the overnight to Europe for only $400 out of pocket!”
Mark further advises students to consider opening a student travel rewards credit card like CapitalOne Venture or Discover It Miles to earn points on everyday purchases, which can then be redeemed towards any travel purchase. Likewise, loyalty programs like Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors that span thousands of properties worldwide offer great redemption value on free nights.
Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Packing and Preparing for Multiple Trips Each Year
When pursuing an ambitious goal of visiting several international destinations annually, efficiently packing your bags and mastering trip logistics becomes paramount. Without this expertise, the cost and hassle of traveling frequently could easily swell beyond your budget and availability as a student. Learning from others who have optimally packed and prepared for serial global excursions each calendar year provides valuable wisdom.
Seasoned veteran Jane takes a "capsule wardrobe" approach, thoughtfully curating her international travel packing down to a personal item, carry-on roller bag, and daypack or purse. Her streamlined dresses, lightweight shirts, pants with multiple uses, and versatile jacket comprise an outfit selection allowing comfortable mixing and matching across climates. Clever rolling, packing cubes, compression bags, and meticulous item organization yield surprisingly spacious results. "Keeping things simple yet complete means less luggage stress and fees, more destinations per trip, as packing light enables spontaneous changes," Jane advises readers.
Fellow adventurer Felix agrees that minimalism remains key but emphasizes advanced planning as equally important. Using an Excel calendar, he timeblocks each prospective trip across a 2-3 month horizon factoring final exams, assignments, anticipated holidays or internship schedules. Color-coded cells flag eligible vacation windows while notes columns capture proposed routes, budgets, or needed vaccinations. Months in advance, Felix prebooks popular summer flights and accommodation to lock preferential rates. "Advance trip plotting takes guesswork out of calendar coordination. I finish each academic term stress-free knowing next steps, places, and partners await overseas," he shares.
Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Choosing Degree Programs That Allow Study Abroad Options
When selecting an undergraduate or graduate degree program, prioritizing those offering study abroad components can prove instrumental for adventurous students intent on frequent international travel. Whether directly enrolled at an overseas university or participating in an exchange through your home institution, pursuing academics abroad delivers an unparalleled experiential education.
This globalized approach to learning served Kevin well throughout his college career. "I specifically chose my university for its hundreds of study abroad destinations preapproved for credit transfer," he explains. By consulting his academic advisor, Kevin carefully selected courses at his home campus that aligned with curriculum requirements at partner universities worldwide.
Over four years, Kevin spent semesters immersed in Spanish language and Latin culture at the Universidad de Costa Rica along with Asian history and sociology at Japan's Ritsumeikan Asia Pacific University. He also participated in numerous two to four week summer and J-term programs focused on global development, European politics, and wildlife conservation in Uganda.
"Every study abroad opportunity expanded my worldview through direct local engagement I never could have gleaned from textbooks," Kevin reflects. "I grew infinitely in independence and intellect while establishing friendships spanning the globe." He credits these experiences for his acceptance into a competitive international education master's program after graduation.
Focusing her graduate studies overseas, Heidi opted for a two-year public administration masters degree through Germany's Erasmus Mundus program in partnership with universities in Italy and Belgium too. "Rotating between three EU cities gave me invaluable exposure to the complexities of cross-cultural collaboration," she explains. Heidi believes her globalized education was integral to securing a position at a leading nonprofit tackling international development challenges.
When exploring potential undergraduate or graduate programs, be sure to inquire about multi-country exchanges available through specific schools or degree tracks. Seek out globally-minded fields like international business, relations, or development along with foreign language mastery. Thoroughly investigate funding options as well, like international scholarships or financial aid portability.
Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Interning Overseas to Gain Work Experience in New Cultures
Gaining targeted work experience abroad represents a surefire means of broadening global perspectives far beyond any classroom setting. Whether for resume building, personal growth or potential career pivots overseas, overseas internships immerse students directly in foreign company cultures delivering unparalleled cultural learnings.
Take Amanda, who used a four-month internship evaluating startups across Asia Pacific’s burgeoning fintech scene to experience Singapore’s multi-ethnic diversity firsthand. Working alongside Malaysians, Indians, Australians and more expanding her usual social circles exponentially. “Learning to successfully navigate team dynamics across such varied backgrounds taught me flexibility surpassing any instruction,” Amanda reflects. Weekend excursions further opened her mind, whether trekking Indonesian volcanoes or exploring Korean skincare traditions in Seoul.
Fellow go-getter Jacob benefited from bilingual skills selecting an English-Spanish social media internship at a fast-growing Barcelona company. His exacting translation work allowed peeking company strategy from within while weekends discovered Catalan’s storied culture and UNESCO World Heritage architecture. Further afield interrailing weekends, Jacob immersed in European diversity through guided tours, hostels and solo rail explorations. “Confidence managing daily tasks internationally without familial supports evolved immensely,” he shares.
Tailoring intern placements to academic strengths proves most compelling, whether Julia’s marine conservation fieldwork through Australia’s Great Barrier Reef Foundation or Brian’s HIV/AIDS policy research alongside African healthcare delegations. Their efforts revealed international issues sparking future careers while broad social networks yet support ongoing global visions.
Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Working Remote Jobs or Online Freelance Gigs While Traveling
For many students eager to see the world, concerns over steady income while travelling long-term often loom large. However, the rise of remote work opportunities today thanks to reliable WiFi and coworking spaces globally, allows brave souls to pursue their adventure passion unhindered. Taking on online freelance gigs or part-time jobs during travels funds fresh experiences, whether graphic design projects amid Greek islands or web development tasks from Tasmania. Simply having a laptop alongside one’s passport unleashes workation potential hard to imagine just a generation ago.
Take Peter for example, who grew weary of his 60 hour weekly Sydney corporate grind and dreamed of Latin America. Upskilling in Ruby on Rails coding brought higher-paid freelance gigs within six months part-time. Committing to four months travel, Peter dedicated mornings working remotely from shared spaces in Medellín, La Paz and Buenos Aires. Between coding sprints he explored volcanoes, perfected Spanish and connected deeply through volunteer tourism. This helped Peter realize office life wasn’t his ultimate fulfilment while travel still delivered joy. Now freelancing globally full-time, Peter matches passion projects with countries when visa allowances expire, satisfied travelling whenever heart desires.
Meanwhile Australian Sarah fell for Southeast Asia after graduating with a nutrition degree hoped for international impact. Investigating remote dietitian roles revealed six-month contracts counseling expatriate families in Singapore, Jakarta and Bangkok. With flexible hours and accommodations provided, Sarah lived authentically like locals yet broadened career horizons meeting global health specialists. Her knowledge grew assisting diverse patients, finding locals valued Western dietary advice when tailored sensitively. Sarah now spearheads educational programs throughout developing nations pursuing her lifelong service dreams.
Exploring the World on a Bachelor of Science Degree - How to Make it Work - Balancing Academics with the Opportunity to Vacation Worldwide
Finding harmony between scholastic dedication and global expedition requires astute scheduling forethought. While many question travel feasibility amid rigors of exams, assignments and theses, countless students prove traveling augmenting rather than detracting from academics.
Julian thrived discovering this balance during graduate studies at Oxford researching Arctic sustainability initiatives. Each summer break, Julian meticulously researched complex itineraries connecting him with communities at research project forefronts. From indigenous Alaskan tribes to Inuit seal hunters along Greenland's coast, Julian gained perspectives supplementing Oxford lectures tenfold.
Ensuring travel never postponing academic duties, Julian blocked months in advance summer excursions, prepared extensive reading materials to consume enroute and scheduled assignments accounting for spotty WiFi. Travel stimulated innovative solutions to thesis hurdles Julian later overcame with flying colors. His globally aware conclusions now influence marine policy across seven governments.
Rather than vacations detracting from academics, American University of Cairo student Maya found strategic study breaks enhancing focus. As economics workload intensified, Maya scheduled intense Rome weekend escapes researching romantic architecture or Greek hikes boosting mental clarity. Brief travels refreshing Maya's perspective helped ace final papers scrutinizing European fiscal policy she'd witnessed first hand beyond textbooks.