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 Exciting and exotic travel. The chance to experience a completely new culture. The endless professional and personal opportunities. When it comes to studying abroad, there's no denying that a wealth of incredible benefits are yours for the taking. From exhilarating travel experiences to the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new language, it's no wonder more college students than ever before are opting to spend a life-changing semester - or even a year - abroad.

But when it comes down to it, is it right for you? Ask anyone who's studied abroad, and they'll likely highlight the wonderful experience they had in another country. But that doesn't mean it is a cakewalk. From dealing with the very real phenomenon of culture shock to navigating your way through complicated cultural complexities, it's vital for you to identify the reason why you want to study in another country in the first place. For example, if you're looking to learn a new language or experience a completely new culture, then go ahead and start applying to your favorite international programs.

But if you're looking to study abroad because your best friend is heading to another country or because your parents are pushing you into it, then it's highly likely that you won't enjoy yourself during your international travels.

So how can you know if studying abroad is right for you? Simple: take a look at the following responses that were provided by students prior to their study abroad experiences. This list was constructed to illustrate the many different reasons why an individual would want to study abroad, so see if you can identify your own reasons among these answers: 

• "I want to expand my cultural horizon beyond what a book can teach me."
• "I have a deep desire to challenge myself."
• "I want to experience personal transformation and growth."
• "I want to understand a different world perspective."
• "I am looking to gain a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
• "I want to not only observe a different culture, but submerge, learn and participate in a distinctly different environment and have in-depth conversations with the locals."
• "I want to be the first among my family to live outside the country."
• "I want to enhance my career potential and prepare myself for a global market."
• "I want to better understand another country's culture."
• "I want to make my dreams of living abroad a reality."

Do any of these reasons resonate with you? If so, then congratulations - you've got the goods to have a successful, rewarding and truly life-changing study abroad experience!