Why You Should Consider J-Term Study Abroad

Thoughts of travel have been pushed aside for some time now, but it seems as though that’s about to change. Elon recently reported that Winter Term study abroad programs for 2022 will take place as planned! Being that some of our fellow students are abroad now, we think it's safe to say, there’s hopeful energy for next year all around, including J-term of course. The programs being offered are scheduled to be announced on April 1st, meaning that now is the time to start planning ahead. Are you ready to take the plunge? 

The bluest blue I ever did see… Photo by Ashleigh Garcia

Studying abroad can seem intimidating, and leaves you with a lot to consider. From scheduling difficulties and academic challenges to having so much freedom in a foreign country, it’s overwhelming. If that’s the case,  J-term programs alleviate most of these concerns. These programs allow you to travel between semesters without missing out on regular campus activities. You’ll also be traveling in a small group (around 30 students or less) that you’ll spend most of your time with since the program is condensed into three weeks. Because there’s so much to see and do in such a short period of time, days will be busy. It’s perfect - you get to travel the world with a group of friends, earn credits, and still take part in both conventional semesters. In this scenario, you get to have your cake and eat it too. 

The timing of winter term programs also couldn’t be more ideal. It’s the perfect excuse to escape one of the coldest months of the year and avoid peak tourist season. Take advantage of the warmer climates by studying abroad in the Mediterranean, perhaps South America, or even venturing down under to Australia. Ah, can you imagine the crystal clear blue water and the sounds of dolphins playing nearby? Not only will you be spending your January in summerlike conditions, but you’ll do it without the time-consuming lines and crowds. Without many tourists around you’ll get an authentic feel for the local culture and be able to stay busy immersing yourself in the culture.

Moreover, the friendships you’ll make while abroad are unmatched. Traveling with someone creates a magical bond; traveling internationally with anyone means you’re experiencing the same things, most likely for the first time, and you’re inevitably going to create some meaningful connections. Not to mention, the relationships that will be formed with the locals are truly something else. There’s something to be said for making a genuine connection with someone across the world for a little snippet of time. Eventually, you’ll look back on it and be reminded how they were able to touch your life in some way or another and smile. 

To all the rising seniors whose abroad trips were canceled last year - this may be the best option for you. Let’s face it, no one wants to miss a semester of their senior year, especially after the absurd year we’ve just had. But then again, no one wants to miss out on the opportunity to study abroad. J-term programs are really conducive for both. While it may not be the semester experience we all hoped for, it’s the next best thing. J-Term study abroad will still look great on your resume and fulfill the new cultural experience we all dream so deeply of. So pick a place that makes your head wander with all the possibilities and your heart flutter in anticipation and apply. Make the most of your senior year by going somewhere you may not have the chance to explore again. Can you think of a better way to soothe your wanderlust and end your college experience? From going on an African safari to ziplining in Costa Rica to hiking Machu Picchu or the Great Wall of China and all in between, the experiences are once in a lifetime and the lessons learned are invaluable.

All in all, J-Term and study abroad complement each other perfectly. The programs are long enough to embrace a new culture but short enough to not add stress to relationships and create distance. Ask anyone who’s been lucky enough to participate in a J-term abroad, it’s one of the dreamiest things Elon can offer. Do yourself a favor and at least browse the trip list and see if anything, in particular, speaks to you. In less than a year maybe you’ll be getting your passport stamped and frolicking in a land far away.

Photos from Ashleigh Garcia on her trip to Australia.