How to Boost Your GPA During Summer Study Abroad

Participating in a summer study abroad program can be very rewarding. It is a great way to travel the world, experience new things and make new friends. While many students are slacking off or working dead-end jobs, you can use this time to get a leg up on the competition. Summer study abroad is a great way to vacation while boosting your GPA and building your resume.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Choose a subject you love for summer study abroad. It'll be easier to concentrate if the school work incorporates something that comes naturally to you, or at least holds your interest. If you hate calculus, then studying it in France won't make it less difficult.

2. Select a destination wisely. If the culture excites you, then you're more likely to immerse your self in it happily. Homesickness saps your energy and enthusiasm. The less culture shock you experience, the better for your GPA.

3. Pick a program with great excursions and group activities. Knowing the awesome experiences to come will help you stay on track.

4. Take fewer courses. Summer classes are condensed and work intensive. Expect no less from your courses during your summer study abroad. Register only for the number of classes that will allow you to balance work and play.

5. Rig your environment for success. Bring materials that support your studies, like a laptop, dictionary and notebooks. Also, surround yourself with things that will help you feel more comfortable in the new place, such as family photos and your favorite pajamas.

6. Schedule study time. Designate specific times to study and stick to them. This allows you to free up the rest of your time to be spontaneous without sacrificing your GPA.

7. Be focused and disciplined. Keep your priorities in check. Resoect the difference between work time and play time. Studying in a Costa Rican bar may seem like killing two birds with one stone, but it's probably not a good idea.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sensible, open-minded and flexible.
• You may have to choose a program sponsored by your own school in order for the grades to count towards your GPA. Check your institution's policy.
• Don't expect foreign professors to be the same as the ones at home. In fact, don't expect anything to be exactly as it is at home. If you want your summer experience to look and feel exactly like home, don't travel.

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