Why consider studying abroad in second year as a fresher?

University courses Politics
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You may find it strange to even consider moving away as you have just begun your journey at your current Uni. The thought of moving away when your just making new friends or feeling homesick may seem slightly strange. But it is definitely something to consider as it can provide many benefits !

So why study abroad ?

Studying abroad during your second year of university offers several benefits, both academic and personal. Here are some key reasons why it can be a great choice:

Academic Enrichment:

  • You can experience a different education system, which may provide fresh perspectives on your field of study.
  • Courses or specializations not available at your home university may be offered, giving you access to unique academic opportunities.

Cultural Immersion:

  • Living in a foreign country allows you to immerse yourself in a new culture, helping you gain a deeper understanding of global perspectives.
  • It enhances intercultural communication skills, which are valuable in both personal and professional settings.

Language Proficiency:

  • If you study in a country where a different language is spoken, it’s a great opportunity to improve or learn a new language through real-life practice.

Personal Growth:

  • You become more independent and adaptable by managing life in a different environment.
  • It can boost confidence and problem-solving skills, as you’ll navigate challenges like adjusting to a new culture, language, and academic system.

Networking Opportunities:

  • Studying abroad can help you build an international network of friends and professionals, which can be beneficial for future career opportunities.

Career Advantages:

  • Employers often value international experience as it reflects adaptability, cultural awareness, and the ability to work in diverse environments.
  • You’ll stand out in job applications by showing that you took the initiative to broaden your academic and personal horizons.

Global Perspective:

  • Exposure to different social, political, and economic systems provides a broader outlook, which can be beneficial in fields like international business, politics, or social sciences.

In your second year, you’ll have completed your foundation courses, making it a good time to explore other educational systems before you focus on more advanced or specialized subjects.

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This is actually something I have never thought about? Do you have any suggested target countries then?

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This actually sounds so exciting! The idea of studying abroad in my second year has crossed my mind, especially for the cultural immersion and language learning aspects. How do you decide which country or program is the best fit for your studies? Do you think it’s better to choose a country where the education system is totally different, or one that’s more similar to what you’re used to?

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It depends on what is important to the student and what their university offers. The closer you are the cheaper, and there are many great locations in Europe (especially Brussels). However, wherever you go, you are likely to have an exciting an enriching experience !

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Its best to do research into a university’s teaching style to see how it suits you and whether it is the right fit. For Politics, major cities and capital cities are quite useful as this is where you are most likely to find political institutions and big corporations.

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I studied abroad during my second year, and it was honestly the best experience! The friends and connections I made are still with me today. If you’re thinking about it, go for it! You won’t regret it!

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