Studying abroad offers no end of benefits that contribute to personal, academic, and professional growth. Here are some reasons why studying abroad is beneficial, with an insight into what I learnt on my year abroad:
Cultural Exposure
You are truly immersed in a different culture and thrown in right at the deep end! But fear not, you can learn about different perspectives on life, traditions, languages, and lifestyles firsthand. You also meet people from all backgrounds and walks of life, and there is always something to be learned.
Academic Opportunities
You will most likely do an exchange with one of your university’s partners abroad. Therefore, you can gain access to unique courses, specialised programmes and research opportunities that may not even be available in your home country! If you are a language student like I am, it will also be a chance for you to take modules outside of your subject area. For instance, I studied Economics and Sociology in Barcelona. This is great for the CV to show a varied skill set, adaptability and versatility!
You may also be studying in a University that has a very different set up to what you are used to. The Academic system in the UK differs very much from that of France, for example. It is common in France to study more vocational subjects and hands-on learning, while the UK (as I am sure you are all aware) has a more critical thinking approach.
Personal Development
This is the most important one! Living in a different country encourages a brand new level of independence, adaptability, and resilience. It forces you to step out of your comfort zone, become more self-reliant, and develop a global mindset (which employers LOVE).
Language Skills
Being immersed in a foreign language environment is one of the best ways to improve language proficiency. It’s an opportunity to practice and become fluent in another language, which can be incredibly valuable both academically and professionally. You don’t even have to be a language student to do this. Even moving abroad to any country with very little language skills, you are bound to improve. This is invaluable in the current job market.
Networking and relationships
This is also an extremely important point. Studying abroad will enable you to build international networks, make lifelong friendships, and create connections with people from diverse backgrounds, potentially opening doors to future opportunities. Very often in the job market, although education is important, the people you know are equally as important. You are a lot more likely to come across a more desirable job posting through word of mouth, rather than being one of 500 applicants to a posting on Linkedin (it’s also much easier too).
Employability!
Employers often value the skills gained from studying abroad, such as cross-cultural communication, adaptability, problem-solving, and a global perspective. It will enhance your CV and make you stand out. Just make sure in your cover letters and during interviews, that you really use your year abroad experiences to the best of your ability, and show the employer how much you’ve learnt and how beneficial it has been for you!
Travel Opportunities
Who doesn’t want to spend a year travelling abroad? And even better, make it count towards your degree! Studying abroad provides a base for exploring nearby regions and countries, offering chances to travel and experience different cultures beyond the host country.
And finally…
Memorable Experiences
Studying abroad has been the most memorable and enriching experiences in my life. What I learned during my time abroad has left, and will continue to leave, a lasting impact on my perspectives and worldview.
Studying abroad is a totally comprehensive experience that combines academic learning, personal development, cultural immersion, and the opportunity to create lasting connections and memories. The world is waiting for you!