Have you always dreamt of studying overseas but are worried about going alone? Not only is studying abroad a truckload of fun, it’s also a life-changing experience that can help you grow as an individual, build lasting networks and add a fresh perspective to your studies long after you’ve returned home. These are just some of the reasons that studying abroad can be one of the biggest and best adventures of a lifetime! Read on to find out more about this great opportunity and then get in touch with the USQ Study Abroad team to find out how we can help turn your travel dreams into reality from as early as next semester!

1. Riding solo
usq.edu.au
7 reasons you
should brave a
semester abroad…
on your own!

2. Studying abroad is not only a truckload of fun,
it sets you up for life by maximising your radical
sense of adventure, introducing you to new people
and increasing your employment prospects.
It’s a once in a lifetime experience!
It’s an investment.

3. So, why do many students
let this amazing opportunity
pass them by?

4. Despite the obvious and awesome benefits of a
semester abroad, the fear of going alone stops many
students from ever setting foot on an international flight.
We’d hate to see you miss out on all the fun, which is
why we have put together 7 reasons why you should be
brave and study abroad solo.

5. When travelling solo, you don’t have to compromise
your wants and needs to make someone else
happy. You’ll have the chance to make new buddies
and indulge in the little things you have always
wanted to do, without feeling guilty.
You don’t have to wait for anyone else to collect
luggage, withdraw money, finish their food or have
a shower. You can even pack lighter because no
one will notice how many times you wear the same
socks! Travelling solo means you’ll have more time
to do the things you really want to do.
Create your own experience
1

6. You can do it

7. The best thing about studying solo overseas is that you get to
completely immerse yourself in your new home and create new
memories. You can learn the local language, eat until you make
yourself sick, try new study methods and take every opportunity
to enjoy yourself. With no one to distract you, you’ll be able to
dive right in and make the most of the opportunity to develop
your language skills first-hand. This limitless experience will give
you the ultimate appreciation for new food, fresh faces and
extraordinary study spaces.
Make the language and
culture your own
2

8. Solo travel means you have to depend on you. This can seem
overwhelming, stressful and even confusing, but don’t worry, we
know #yougotthis! Self-directed study in another country requires
self-discipline and adaptability and, while it may be difficult at first,
these are very valuable skills you will use during the rest of your life.
Don’t forget that your friends, family and USQ want to be in regular
contact with you to hear about all your exciting experiences and know
that you’re safe. Email, Skype and social media make it so easy to keep
in touch with your loved ones, no matter how far away they may be.
Independent you are,
alone you are not
3

9. You can do it

10. Did you know all the universities
that USQ partners with offer classes
and assessment in English?
This means that you have the option to study in a
country even if you don’t speak the local language. It’s
still important to have a basic knowledge of your host
country’s local language so that you can socialise and do
everyday things such as order food or ask for directions.
But that’s no reason to let the fear of language barriers
stop you from chasing your dreams around the world!

11. One of the greatest benefits of travelling solo
is that you will have countless opportunities
to make new friends from many interesting
backgrounds! Being able to share all your
new and amazing experiences with these
people will give you the opportunity to make
connections that last a lifetime.
Studying with students from your host
university will give you the chance to
build rewarding networks that may help you
later on in your career.
You will make friends
4

12. In a familiar place, our senses of curiousity and adventure are dulled;
entering a different environment full of surprises and new experiences is one
of the best ways to bring out your inner daredevil! You might find yourself
going for a bungee jump or a 20km mountain trek or maybe shaking things
up with a fresh haircut or tattoo (be careful!). #YOLO
Travelling can be inspiring in ways you never expected and can help you to
grow as an individual. Who knows, you might learn something new about
yourself or discover a hobby or talent you never knew you possessed!
Studying abroad allows you to grow as a student as well. Attending classes
and lectures that use different teaching techniques could lend a new
perspective to your studies and motivate you to achieve your best results yet.
Leave your comfort zone behind
5

13. You can do it

14. Travelling can be expensive, especially when you’re
living independently, studying and having fun all at
the same time. That’s why it’s great to know that
USQ offers numerous scholarships, loans and grants
to help you achieve your Study Abroad dreams.
Saving and budgeting is crucial, especially when
you’re dealing with a different currency. Mobile
apps are a great way to manage your budget and
currency conversions on the go. Check out this
guide to essential study abroad apps!
Manage your money
6

15. Any manager would be impressed to have a self-reliant,
independent, confident, experienced and inspired employee!
As a solo Study Abroad student, you’ll have these skills
and more! Experience fending for yourself in a foreign
country looks impressive on a résumé, especially if you
had to learn a second language as well! Research has
found that students who study abroad are half as likely
to experience unemployment throughout their careers as
students who don’t.*
*University of California, Merced, 2016.
Invest in the future
7

16. Studying abroad offers you an invaluable and
unforgettable experience, so make it your own! USQ is
here to help you every single step of the way before,
during and after your travels! This opportunity is once
in a lifetime, so grab it with both hands and fulfil your
dreams! Don’t forget to share your amazing experiences
with us on social media by using #usqinternational.
Take the leap:
go and USQ-ify the world!

17. CRICOS: QLD00244B NSW02225M TEQSA: PRV12081 6.2.A 01.2017 IMAGES – SHUTTERSTOCK.COM
social.usq.edu.au
You can do it!
So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with the
USQ Study Abroad team today and you could be living
your global study dreams as early as next semester!