Nearly one-half of the world’s population call Asia home; however, it isn’t just a land robust with people. Many fascinating societies, holding firmly to their cultural roots, come together to make one of the most culturally diverse and interesting continents on the planet.
With distinct contrasts to Western counterparts, studying abroad in Asia is reserved for the curious. There has never been a better time to invest in tomorrow’s leaders by encouraging youth to study in Asia.
This is especially important given the large influence its’ strong economic systems will continue to have in the emerging global markets.
The study abroad experience offers a myriad of benefits including the opportunities to develop desirable professional skills, establish independence, and gain a firsthand look at the societies we will increasingly interact with in the coming years.
Perhaps most importantly, studying abroad in Asia will prepare students to cultivate mutual understandings between their home country and the continent as a whole.
Asia’s countries are equally interesting, but we recommend these top 5 for your study abroad experience.
China
Your study abroad experience can be much more than language immersion – while learning Mandarin in China is recommended, it is also fun to think about the multitude of cultural sites to entertain you during your study breaks!
The Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, the Bund in Shanghai – and that’s before we begin talking about the fun in China’s inland countryside.
China is big in its politics, population, potential, horizons; see for yourself what the fuss is about!
Thailand
Sharing borders with Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia, a study abroad program in Thailand means easy access to a number of incredibly interesting neighbor-countries!
This country is a dizzying array of Monks in bright orange robes, tuk-tuk honks, shimmering temples, and spicy noodles – it is sensory overload!
With exciting cities and beautiful beaches, you’d be hard-pressed as a student to find a more magical country for your study abroad experience.
India
India is an ancient culture that is moving quickly into the 21st century, creating an atmosphere of innovation, traditionalism, and creativity (all in the familiar English tongue!).
India is an obvious choice for study abroaders, especially considering the number of places of historic significance shouldered up on towering sky scrapers scrunched into busy, cow-filled streets lined with jasmine markets.
We recommend participating in a homestay to add a further level of depth to your experience (besides, it’s fun to watch Bollywood films with a friend!)
Taiwan
Nothing says immersion experience like a study abroad trip to the island nation of Taiwan! Over 20 million friendly Mandarin speakers call this small nation off the east coast of China home.
Another perk of studying in Taiwan versus Mainland China is the locals’ use of traditional Chinese characters instead of simplified. Expose yourself to thousands of years of Chinese history and literature while memorizing the pictograph combinations.
Many international students from all over the world come to Taiwan to study, creating a unique environment where communication is sometimes only possible in the target language!
South Korea
South Korea has defended its borders despite its proximity to many strong and invasive neighboring countries. Because of this, South Korea has managed to maintain a strong sense of identity, including a unique language.
As the only divided country on the planet, South Korea is also extremely fascinating politically and economically, playing a huge role as a forerunner in information technology and global communications.
Experience the energy of both Korea’s bustling metropolises and nearby serene landscapes while you study abroad.