Studying abroad in your 20s vs your 30s

Learn languages October 27, 2017

Whether you’re a fresh-faced university grad or a well-dressed business maven, it’s never been easier to study abroad. But just like some of you are still eating cereal for dinner while others refuse to spend less than double digits on a bottle of wine, there are also quite a few differences between studying abroad in your 20s vs your 30s. Can you relate to any of these?

 

1. Finances

20s:

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You had to beg, borrow and steal to save up the money for this trip.

 

30s:

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You finally have a job that allows you to travel in style.

 

2. Sleep habits

20s:

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You’ll sleep just about anywhere.

 

30s:

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Getting your beauty sleep is CRUCIAL.

 

3. In the classroom

20s:

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You’re still used to the classroom setting from university.

 

30s:

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You’re SO excited to be back in school!

 

4. Socialising

20s:

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You recognise that socialising is part of the cultural experience.

 

30s:

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And so do you (but you are more selective about what you drink!).

 

5. Free time 

20s:

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You have to take part in at least one adrenaline-fueled activity during your time abroad.

 

30s:

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You sign up for every optional activity in the programme.

 

6. Souvenirs

20s:

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If you don’t get a tattoo, did you really study abroad?

 

30s:

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Finding that perfect souvenir to decorate your apartment with is key.

 

7. Dining 

20s:

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Free spaghetti night at the residence is the best night of the week!

30s:

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You’re working through the Michelin guide’s recommended restaurants.

 

8. Class participation

20s:

Participating in class like:

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30s:

Participating in class like:

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9. Going out

20s:

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You have miraculous recovery powers after a late night out with your new best friends.

 

30s:

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It’s a miracle you even survived that late night out with your new best friends.

 

10. The one thing you have in common 

20s & 30s:

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You can’t wait to do it all over again!

 

Full disclosure: This article was written by a thirty-something who’s still coming to grips with the fact that she’s no longer a twenty-something. And she can verify that all the differences between studying abroad in your 20s vs your 30s are accurate (at least in her case).

Find language trips for all ages

By Leah Ganse

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