Studying Abroad impact on applications

[cdavidso]

Does studying abroad really have that great an impact on your application? Lacking research, will my study abroad in Japan make up for it?

---

Members don't see this ad.

 

[Catalystik]

Lacking research, will my study abroad in Japan make up for it?

No.

Studying abroad may make you look more interesting and well-rounded, and seem more culturally aware and flexible, but it will not make up for any expected missing element to a good application.

 

[DrSnips]

Does studying abroad really have that great an impact on your application? Lacking research, will my study abroad in Japan make up for it?

No. However, if you had some culturally changing experience in Japan, you may be able to milk it for your personal statement and write about cultural competency.

 

[Praefectus]

Schools want to see that you have at least a little interest in research, so I'd definitely do that over studying abroad.

 

[Barcu]

It also kind of depends on the school you're at and your interests.

I had research and studying abroad experience. However, my application was more catered toward underserved, Spanish-speaking populations, so my study abroad experience in a Spanish-speaking country was of much greater importance in my interview.

Now, I can't be sure that they didn't just look at my research, make a check mark, and then focus on other things. Still, people get in without research (though it is less common).

I would be safe and get some research if possible. Some baseline is pretty much necessary, and study abroad will not make up for research. However, if there is a choice between studying abroad versus being a complete research stud, you might consider what your goals are.

 

[Knocked Up]

Does studying abroad really have that great an impact on your application? Lacking research, will my study abroad in Japan make up for it?

Why Japan? Go for somewhere along the French Riviera. Hot Russian girls vacationing + French girls + great weather = good time.