As a secondary student, have you ever thought of studying abroad one day? Studying in the foreign country may be a dream of ours. In this article, I am going to explore the pros and cons of studying abroad.
First of all, one of the advantages is that it is a very good chance to broaden our horizons and widen our exposure to the world. For example, we can experience the relaxing and inspiring lessons in the US and Britain. Many foreign schools usually encourage students to think independently. It is quite different from the spoon-feeding style education system in Hong Kong. Besides, we can learn the more advanced technology or medicine if we are interested in them. If we intend to study these subjects in the future, studying abroad is a nice choice.
Another benefit is that our English can be greatly improved. If we study in a foreign country, we will frequently communicate with foreigners using English, which is a major international language. We will have many chances to use English. After a long time studying there, we will have a much better command of the language.
However, studying abroad may not necessarily be a perfect idea for us. There are drawbacks we suffer if we choose overseas education.
An obvious disadvantage is that it will impose heavy financial burden on parents. If we are born in a humble and ordinary family, it is difficult to afford the cost of staying in a foreign country for a few years. Studying abroad, we need to pay for the expensive cost of living and school fees. Unfortunately, some of us may not be able to meet the huge cost. If we are so determined to study overseas, we may need to do part-time jobs while studying. We and our parents need to lead a harder life.
Another drawback is that we may find it difficult to adapt to a new and unfamiliar environment. For example, the western food is not our favourite. At the early period, we may find it hard to communicate with the foreigners or concentrate on the lessons due to the difficult and unfamiliar language. Moreover, we may not like the cold and snowy weather in the western countries, like Britain.
Lastly, I would like to share my personal opinion. I think studying abroad after Secondary Three is not the most suitable time because it is too difficult for most of us to become independent at this young age. With parents’ care and support, most of us are just like a plant in a green house, enjoying sufficient sunlight and water provided for us. Many of us don’t have much experience of living alone or looking after oneself. I suggest those who want to study abroad should wait until they enter university. One will have better language standard and independence ability at that time. We should also consider the financial factor when we think about overseas education. We should think if we can afford the cost. Besides, we should consider our personal ability. Whether we are able to study well and have good academic performance and whether we have good language foundation. You should think carefully before making your decision.