The benefits of studying abroad are numerous and profound for international students. Exploring a new country and culture is not only enriching but also allows you to broaden your horizons, seeing the world from a different perspective, developing new skills, becoming more independent, and gaining self-confidence. Beyond personal growth, this immersive experience prepares you for a globalized world and offers invaluable life experiences. This article outlines 15 compelling reasons why stepping out of your comfort zone and spending a semester or two in a foreign country can be a transformative journey for any student.
15 Real Benefits of Studying Abroad
The advantages of getting an international education are lifelong. Here are some of the benefits that will stay with you long after your return home:
1. Experience Different Cultures
One of the best things about studying abroad is that it immerses you in a new culture. This experience can be transformative, giving you a better understanding and appreciation for other ways of life beyond what you’ve become accustomed to. Exposure to new cultures, customs, and values helps you develop a global perspective.
2. Learn How To Travel Internationally
When you study abroad, you’ll learn how to navigate your way around a foreign country. This is an important skill to have, as it will come in handy when you travel for leisure or business in the future. You’ll also learn how to navigate different transportation systems, which can be quite helpful if you’re ever planning a trip to someplace new.
3. Diversify Your Education
Studying in a foreign country allows you to take courses that may not be offered at your home institution. This is a great way to expand your knowledge and skill set, as well as prepare for a future career. For example, if you’re interested in working in the fashion industry, you could study abroad in Italy to learn about the country’s rich tradition and culture of fashion.
4. Make New Friends
When you study abroad, you’ll meet people from all over the world. These relationships can be valuable, as they provide you with a network of friends you can rely on long after your time abroad has ended. You may even make lifelong friends while you’re studying in another country.
5. Try New Food
One of the best things about international travel is that you’ll have the opportunity to try new food. This is a great way to expand your palate and explore different types of cuisine. Who knows, you may even find a new favorite dish while you’re sampling the local fare in another country.
6. Experience History Firsthand
When you study abroad, you’ll have the opportunity to experience history firsthand. This is a great way to learn about other cultures and gain a better understanding of the world. You’ll also be able to see some of the most famous landmarks and tourist destinations up close and personal, as well as deepen your knowledge of art, literature, and other areas of study.
7. Enhance Your Network
As you make new friends and meet people from around the globe, you’ll also be expanding your professional network. This can be beneficial if you’re ever looking for a job or internship in another country. The connections you make while studying abroad could help you land your dream job, which might even end up being overseas.
8. Discover Career Opportunities
Studying in a foreign country can also help you discover new career opportunities. For example, if you’re interested in working in the global marketplace, studying abroad is a great way to gain the international experience that employers are looking for. Additionally, many study-abroad programs offer internships and other professional development opportunities that can give you a leg up when you’re job hunting after graduation.
9. Increase Your Confidence
Leaving your comfort zone and venturing into the unknown can be a bit daunting at first. But as you adapt to your new surroundings and navigate your way through new experiences, you’ll start to feel more confident in yourself. This newfound confidence can be beneficial in all areas of your life, from your personal relationships to your professional career.
10. Find New Interests
When you’re exposed to new cultures and ways of life, you may find that you develop new interests. For example, you may find yourself interested in learning a new language or taking up a new hobby. These new interests can enrich your life and help you to see the world in a new light.
11. Learn a New Language
One of the best things about studying abroad is that you’ll often have the opportunity to learn a new language. This can be beneficial in both your personal and professional life. For example, if you’re looking to work in a foreign country or with foreign clients, being able to speak their language will give you a major advantage over other candidates or colleagues.
12. Gain a Global Outlook
When you study abroad, you’ll develop a global outlook. This means that you’ll be able to see the world from different perspectives and learn about other cultures. Knowing these things can make you more understanding and tolerant of others, which is a valuable quality in today’s interconnected world.
13. Learn To Adapt To New Surroundings
One of the challenges of studying abroad is that you’ll often be in unfamiliar territory. This can be a bit intimidating at first, but it’s also a great opportunity to learn how to adapt to new surroundings. As you get comfortable with your environment, you’ll find that you become more flexible and resilient, two qualities that will serve you well in both your personal and professional life.
14. Make Lifelong Memories
Expect to create memories that will last a lifetime. From exploring new cities to making new friends, you will have many rich experiences studying abroad. And, if you document your experiences in photos and journals, you’ll be able to look back on your time abroad fondly for years to come.
15. Improve Cross-Cultural Competency
In today’s globalized world, it’s important to be able to communicate and work effectively with people from other cultures. When you study abroad, you’ll have the opportunity to develop your cross-cultural competency, which will enrich both your personal and professional life. By learning how to navigate different cultures, you’ll be better prepared to work in a globalized economy.
As you can see, studying abroad offers many benefits and potential opportunities to enrich yourself and your life. If you’re considering ways to expand your education experience, take a leap and go for it! It’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Stay Safe While Studying Abroad With TravelBug Health
When you’re preparing to study abroad, there’s a lot to think about. From packing your bags to choosing the right classes, there’s certainly a lot to do. But one thing that’s often overlooked is travel health. What health risks may be specific to your destination country? Are your routine immunizations up-to-date? Will you need malaria medication if it’s a tropical locale?
You can get the answers to all of your questions by scheduling a pre-travel health consultation at TravelBug Health. During your visit, our travel medicine specialist will review your itinerary as well as your medical and vaccine history and make recommendations tailored to your specific destination.They will also recommend any vaccinations or medications that you may need during your stay overseas. We can also help you create a plan for managing any chronic conditions you may have while you’re away from home so you can focus on the benefits of studying abroad.
TravelBug Health is here to help you stay healthy and safe while you’re studying abroad. So don’t wait, schedule your pre-travel health consultation today! or learn more, https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/before-travel, before studying abroad.