News Americas, NY, NY, Mon. Feb. 22, 2021: Although the global pandemic has hindered international travel, change is on the horizon. With the emergence of vaccines, it is now possible for us to see some light at the end of the tunnel. It may take us a while to adapt to the new normal, but we will eventually find ways to function. Although many have adapted to online learning, there are still many students that long for the opportunity to study more formally on campus. With that in mind, if you’ve been presented with an opportunity to study overseas, here are some good reasons to pursue this path:
For the Education
Studying abroad means you’ll get amazing opportunities to learn and experience different styles of education. You may even have the chance to specialize in an area that you haven’t been exposed to at home. Immersing yourself in the educational experience during a study abroad program will give you some excellent insights into the people, culture and traditions of your host country.
To See the World
Any opportunity to study at a university overseas will allow you to see the world in a deeper way than you ever would as a tourist. By spending a longer period of time in a place and experiencing daily life there, you’ll have a chance to get acquainted with the locals most closely and you will likely leave with new friends too. You’ll also get to explore the country itself and marvel at the natural wonders, landmarks and museums in the host nation.
For Self Development
For many students, a semester overseas is their first experience of being away from their home country. Arriving in a new place, negotiating daily life with limited language skills and adapting to a new culture are all experiences that will help develop your personality and make you more resilient. These kinds of life skills that can’t be taught in a lecture hall will serve you well in both your professional and personal life moving forward.
To Be Exposed to a New Culture
Being exposed to a different culture can be fascinating and eye-opening. It will help you gain a better understanding and appreciation for the people of your host country and their history. Learning about new cultures encourages tolerance and open-mindedness, which are beneficial qualities to nurture.
Career Opportunities
On completion of your study program, you’ll return home with some tangible skills, such as the ability to speak a new language, along with new perspectives on culture and well-honed interpersonal skills. These attributes are highly valued by future employers and will set you apart from the competition when it comes to job applications. Remember, it will be easier to get your foot in the door if you already have connections overseas.
Studying abroad will certainly be an unforgettable experience, but it will also provide its fair share of challenges. Overcoming these inevitable hurdles is an important part of the experience. There’s no doubt that you’ll leave with some wonderful memories, but in some cases, students fall so in love with the host country that they end up returning to pursue a job opportunity.
