Why Study Abroad?
Study abroad opportunities provide a unique travel experience and the chance to extend learning beyond the classroom. Anyone who has studied abroad will tell you that it was a life-changing and rewarding experience. Here are several more reasons to go abroad:
Gain new perspectives on another country
When studying abroad, you see the world from a completely different perspective. You are able to broaden your perception of the world by learning about a different society and culture from the inside. You learn to interact in a different culture and with people who may not necessarily think or communicate like you. The experience therefore provides you with the chance to break down some of your own stereotypes about other countries and people.
Gain new perspectives on your own country
Spending time outside of your home country shows you how it fits into the rest of the world. You will gain a more informed perspective on American’s role in international affairs. Also, by experiencing another culture you will be better able to understand your own.
Personal growth
Studying abroad forces you to step outside your comfort zone. It's an opportunity to discover new strengths and abilities and conquer new challenges. You must learn how to adapt and respond to unfamiliar situations, gaining insight into yourself and others in the process. Students typically return home with increased self-confidence and pride in what they have achieved.
Build your resume
Since less than 5% of US University students study abroad, doing so sets you apart from the rest. Since we live in an increasingly interconnected world and culturally diverse workforce, employees with multi-lingual and cross-cultural experience and skills are in high demand. Moreover, an employer sees a student who has studied abroad as self-motivated, independent, willing to embrace challenges, and able to cope with diverse problems and situations. Studying abroad will strengthen your resume and, consequently, expand your employment opportunities.
Create invaluable relationships
When abroad, you will meet people from different backgrounds and cultures and be able to build your professional and personal networks. You'll network with fellow students, teachers, host families and professionals. These relationships will provide you will new insights and outlooks as well as opportunities you would not have otherwise.
Gain valuable life skills
Studying abroad grants you skills that will be helpful in your professional and personal future. Living in a foreign nation teaches you how to beindependent, self-sufficient, open-minded, adaptable, and communicate in a cross-cultural setting. Every experience abroad, from the classroom to the grocery store, is a learning opportunity.
Learn a language
The best way to become fluent in a language is to be immersed in it. Learning a foreign language will increase your global understanding, improve your communication and cognitive skills, and provide you with opportunities you might not otherwise have.