study abroad

Definition

A program where students take classes in another country, theoretically for cross-cultural learning but often functioning as an expensive semester-long vacation with occasional lectures. Parents fund it; Instagram documents it; transcripts barely reflect it.

Example Usage

Her study abroad experience in Florence primarily consisted of mastering the Italian wine regions and taking one art history class.

Origin

Modern study abroad programs emerged post-WWII, expanding significantly in the 1980s

Fun Fact

Students who study abroad are more likely to graduate on time, despite widespread belief that international programs delay graduation.

Source: International education professional standards

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