need help deciding where to study abroad:)

[pyrexia]

I think it's important to consider:

1) what you're studying - which country/school is best for that major?

2) the language - are the courses conducted in English? Depending on the school, they may not conduct certain classes in English - even if you can speak high school French, will you understand the specific French terms for your course? (e.g. engineering has specific terms - will you understand the French terms easily if you took a class in French?)

[violathebee]

sorry everyone, i keep prolonging this thread! i guess i'll just lay out the pros/cons of each to make this decision a lot easier?

both france and HK have economics classes taught in english, so that won't be a huge issue. there's a language barrier in both countries. however, after i decide which country i go to, i'll start taking classes ASAP! i'm not looking to make local friends, but of course it would be awesome if i did. lastly, i'm going to this program ALONE without any of my friends so that i can gain a new experience:) it's scary not to know anyone going with me, so i want to make the right decision!

pros of HK:
1) one of the best universities in Asia (HKU or HKUST) and is ranked pretty high in the world
2) practical because my parents can visit often, and the program is through my school
3) low costs

cons of HK:
1) i've been to HK and around Asia a couple of times
2) HK isn't anything new or exciting to me

pros of france:
1) paris is my favorite city in the world
2) easy to travel around europe and visit many places i haven't gone before! i've always wanted to go to vienna, prague, germany, etc.
3) fashion capital of the world: can a girl ask for more?!

cons of france:
1) high costs
2) program isn't through my school and the institution isn't as renowned as HKU or HKUST
3) parents probably won't be able to visit me

[meganfm]

^Oh you didn't tell me you've been to HK already! Maybe Paris would be a better trip.

BUT-do you or your parents have enough money to pay for France? This is NOT something you should go into debt over-you won't enjoy your exchange nearly as much if you are worried about money constantly (especially when it comes to enjoying the fashion :P)

In terms of ranking, since it's just an exchange, I don't think it really matters. What matters more is the ranking of your home uni. I mean, I have CUHK on my resume under education, but all I ever hear is "ohh you went on exchange!" not about the calibre of school.