You've heard students describe study abroad programs with adjectives such as life-changing, rewarding, gratifying, fun, and amazing. But if you are not sure what benefits await you, here are ten reasons to study abroad:
- It's the best way to learn a new language. There is no better or more effective way to learn a language than to be immersed in a culture that speaks the one you want to learn. You'll hear it in the proper cultural context and learn more quickly.
- Travel is part of the deal. Weekends and academic breaks allow you to venture out and explore both immediate and distant surroundings and some (more structured) programs include field trips and business visits as part of the curriculum.
- You'll experience culture first-hand. Cultural differences go beyond differences in language, cuisine, appearance, and personal habits. You'll be able to better understand deeply held perceptions, beliefs, and values that influence people from cultures outside your own.
- You'll learn in ways you never will in a classroom. You will encounter situations that are wholly unfamiliar to you and learn to adapt and respond in effective ways. While it can be a bit scary at first, it is exciting to discover your ability to solve problems and conquer new challenges.
- Global friendships happen. You'll deepen your relationship with peers and fellow students who travel with you while expanding your circle of friends worldwide.
- Studying abroad helps you learn about yourself. Study abroad experiences often challenge students to re-examine their own beliefs and values. For some, it strengthens them, for others, new ones are embraced. Either way, students see their own culture with “fresh eyes.”
- You'll expand your worldview. Americans are frequently uniformed about the world beyond the U.S. borders. Students who study abroad return to America more informed about global business, the world in general, and other cultures and perspectives.
- You can break out of your academic routine. It's great to break out of the routine you follow semester after semester. You'll have the chance to learn how other academic semesters flow and how other universities evaluate student success.
- It opens up employment opportunities. Reportedly, only four percent of U.S. students study abroad, yet employers often view students who have studied abroad as self-motivated, independent problem-solvers who are willing to embrace challenges. Your experiences living and studying in a foreign country, negotiating another culture and learning another language can set you apart from other job applicants.
- It enhances the value of your degree. You can take courses unavailable at your home campus while studying abroad. After boosting your language skills abroad, it is often quite easy to add a language minor (or even a second major) to your degree.
