Studying Abroad

Studying abroad may be one of the most beneficial experiences for a college student. By studying abroad,
students have the opportunity to study in a foreign nation and take in the allure and culture of a new land.
Here is a list of the top 10 reasons to study abroad!

1. See the World

The biggest reason you should consider a study abroad program is the opportunity to see the world . By
studying abroad, you will experience a brand-new country with incredible new outlooks, customs and
activities. The benefits of studying abroad include the opportunity to see new terrains, natural wonders,
museums and landmarks of your host nation. In addition, when you’re abroad, you won’t be limited to
traveling in just the nation in which you are studying – you can see neighboring countries as well! For
example, if you study in France, you’ll have the option to travel through various parts of Europe
including London , Barcelona , and Rome.

2. Education

Another reason you might consider studying abroad is for the chance to experience different styles of
education. By enrolling in a study abroad program, you’ll have the chance to see a side of your major that
you may not have been exposed to at home. You’ll find that completely immersing yourself in the
education system of your host country is a great way to really experience and understand the people, its
traditions, and its culture. Education is the centerpiece of any study abroad trip—it is, after all, a study
abroad program—and choosing the right school is a very important factor.

3. Take in a New Culture

Many students who choose to study abroad are leaving their home for the first time. When they arrive in
their new host country, they are fascinated by the distinct cultural perspectives. When you study abroad
you will find incredible new foods, customs, traditions, and social atmospheres. You will find that you
have a better understanding and appreciation for the nation’s people and history. You will have the
opportunity to witness a completely new way of life.

4. Hone Your Language Skills

Chances are if you’re planning on studying abroad, one of the major draws is the opportunity to study a
foreign language. Studying abroad grants you the opportunity to completely immerse yourself in a new
language, and there is no better way to learn than to dive right in. In addition to the considerable language
practice you will get just in day to day life, your host university will likely offer language courses to
provide you with a more formal education. Immerse yourself in a new culture and go beyond a purely
academic experience

5. Career Opportunities

When you finish your study abroad program and return home, you will return with a new perspective on
culture, language skills, a great education, and a willingness to learn. Needless to say, all of these are very
attractive to future employers. Many students find that they love their host country so much that they
decide to seek work there. If you can relate, you will find that a local education will be very valuable
when searching for a potential job in that country.
6. Find New Interests

If you are still questioning why to study abroad, you should know that studying in a different country
offers many new activities and interests that you may never have discovered if you’d stayed at home. You
might find that you have an as-yet undiscovered talent for hiking, water sports, snow skiing, golf, or
various other new sports you may never have tried back home. You’ll also have the chance to discover
other new and exciting forms of entertainment. Plays, movies, dancing, nightclubs, and concerts are just a
few activities that you can enjoy.

7. Make Lifelong Friends

One of the biggest benefits of studying abroad is the opportunity to meet new lifelong friends from
different backgrounds. While studying abroad, you will attend school and live with students from your
host country. This gives you the opportunity to really get to know and create lasting relationships with
your fellow students. After the study abroad program ends, make an effort stay in contact with your
international friends. In addition to rewarding personal relationships, these friends can also be important
networking tools later down the road.

8. Personal Development

There is nothing quite like being on your own in a foreign country. You might find that studying abroad
really brings out your independent nature. Students who study abroad become explorers of their new
nation and really discover the curiosity and excitement that they harbor. A benefit to studying abroad is
the opportunity to discover yourself while gaining an understanding of a different culture. Being in a new
place by yourself can be overwhelming at times, and it tests your ability to adapt to diverse situations
while being able to problem solve.

9. Graduate School Admissions

Like future employers, graduate school admissions boards look very highly on study abroad experiences.
Students that study abroad display diversity and show that they aren’t afraid to seek out new challenges or
put themselves in difficult situations. Most importantly, students who have studied abroad show just how
committed they are to their education. Graduate schools regularly look for candidates who will bring a
unique aspect to their university. Students who have studied abroad have shown that they have the
curiosity and educational acumen to be a leader in graduate school.

10. Life Experience

Why study abroad? For most students, this time may be the only opportunity they ever get to travel
abroad for a long period of time. Eventually you will find a job and career, and the opportunity to study
abroad may turn out to be a once in a life time opportunity. Take this opportunity to travel the world with
no commitments but to study and learn about new cultures. Studying abroad is an experience unlike any
other.

Source: International Student