Recently, more and more S3 students have started studying abroad. Is studying abroad really a good idea for S3 students? This essay will talk about the pros and cons of studying abroad and if S3 students should consider doing so.
Let us start with the advantages first. Studying abroad lets students become more independent. Since they are living without their parents, S3 students will have to learn how to take care of themselves. Going to school, getting meals, and even doing chores will be all in students’ control, which means they need to take responsibility for themselves. Since they rely on themselves, they won’t become brats spoiled by their parents and will mature into independent grown-ups.
Another advantage is that S3 students can broaden their horizons. As S3 students are exposed to an unfamiliar environment, foreign lifestyle, and new cultures, they get to reach out to the world and see what’s out there. Studying overseas allows S3 students to reach beyond Hong Kong and explore a new world as they expand their social circle, adventure places, experience different cultures, understand others’ perspectives, and make unforgettable memories. Therefore, their field of view will also be widened.
Albeit the advantages, there are drawbacks that should be acknowledged as well. First of all, studying abroad is by no means inexpensive. The school fees are more costly than those in Hong Kong, not to mention affording daily necessities and buying flight tickets, which also require lots of money. Not all families can afford all the fees and tickets. Many may encounter those financial problems, which may be a daunting struggle to cope with. Studying abroad would be a heavy burden.
Other than the heavy financial burden, adapting to an entirely new environment in a foreign country can be rather tricky for many S3 students who used to be with their old friends back in their original school and have familiar faces around them. This is especially true when getting used to new cultures, familiarizing themselves with new places, and being able to understand foreign languages. Settling down will take time, let alone opening up to new people.
In conclusion, there are pros and cons that should be considered before studying abroad. S3 students can be more independent, along with a broader horizon, but it can also be costly and hard to adapt to the new environment. Personally, I wouldn’t encourage S3 students who are young and inexperienced to study overseas. But if the advantages outweigh the drawbacks for them, why not give it a go?