Imagine being able to wake up for class in Sydney, Australia, sounds pretty amazing, right ? There are many benefits to studying abroad. Students from across the world study in places like China, Australia, Europe or more for an experience like no other. Some of the reasons they opt out for international studies are to learn a new language, to gain life experience, and for career opportunities. Depending on the school, there are usually opportunities to study abroad for most undergrad students.
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#1. Students in undergrad commonly study abroad for the life experience. John Irving, author of books such as The Cider House Rules and The World According to Garp, once wrote, “My year [of study abroad] was the single-most important year of my education, or perhaps more broadly, my growing up … I became so excited by the city and its history and, outside of [our professor’s] philosophy courses, was so encouraged by him to explore Vienna more. I know I feel permanently attached to the city, and in the time in my life, that I feel I first became vividly aware of other people’s lives all around me.” – Read more at here.
Depending on the school, you can spend anywhere for a few months to a year during your studies. Along with being able to experience other nationalities, students are also exposed to different cultures. During this time, students learn more about themselves, you gain a true sense of independency.
#2. Another common reason students study abroad is so that they can receive an education different from the one they would receive in the country currently live in. In fact, it even helps your GPA.
“100% greater improvement in GPA post-study abroad. Student GPAs tend to rise as they approach the completion of their undergraduate degree.” – University of California, Mercer
Here’s a bonus! Traveling to another country/continent gives you the opportunity to learn things the way that your host family has learned things.
#3. Did you know that according to University of California, Merced, 97 percent of study abroad students found employment within 12 months of graduation, whereas only 49% of college graduates found employment in the same period. Yes, this means you’re twice as likely to find your way in Corporate America as an international student. With these growing numbers, potential career opportunities motivate some students to want to study abroad. Not only are students able to receive a different style of education, they are given the opportunity to network as well. Students can make connections and determine if this is a place they may want to live/work in in the future. In addition, it looks great on your college transcripts and resume. Hello post-grad jobs!
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#4. You also have the opportunity of learning a new language. Depending on where the student is studying, like China for example. A student studying abroad is bound to learn a few words at the very least. While studying abroad (depending on the location) you might even be able to put that newly learned language to use in the workforce.
#5. Most students hoping to study abroad know that a different country means different opportunities. Students abroad also have the ability to explore different interests that they may not be able to explore at home. Imagine climbing the Great Wall of China or getting a tan on Bondi Beach in Sydney. Sounds pretty amazing, right?
The possibilities are endless when you engross yourself in, not to mention the people you will meet. Students are sure to make a few friends and connect with their host families. Sure you’ll be thousands of miles away from home, but the memories you’ll make and the pictures you’ll take will make up for it.
Comment below if you’ve studied abroad before; what are some of the things you learned during your time with your host family? Let us know how your experience was!
