Studying abroad can benefit your education and, perhaps most importantly, your career in the long-term. At the same time, it is a rewarding experience. If you are planning to study abroad at a university, here are eight ways to make the most of it.
Improve your language skills
Taking a course abroad can help you learn new language skills. While studying a foreign language in the classroom can be enjoyable, putting it into practice in the real world is a very different experience. If you practice it regularly, you will learn the language faster. Learning a language is sometimes very useful when working for international organizations. Having strong oral or written language skills, along with some relevant work experience, can help you stand out in the highly competitive world of commerce. Fluency in a foreign language is essential for many careers, including international business and diplomacy. And for other careers, it will definitely be advantageous.Capture the attention of recruiters
Studying abroad gives you the opportunity to prove to potential employers that you are open-minded, diligent and motivated enough to adapt to a completely different environment. Many employers are looking for graduates with international experience. According to a recent survey, 64% of employers believe that mastering a foreign language is an integral part of the job. 92% of them are looking for transferable skills such as flexibility. Overcoming cultural shocks and stepping out of your comfort zone will therefore be viewed positively by potential employers. “Students who study abroad have more employment opportunities than those who don’t,”said Lombardi. The concept of interdisciplinary studies allows students to integrate their studies and perspectives into a variety of academic disciplines. Another study found that over 40% of companies refused to enter international markets due to a lack of staff with international experience. Studying abroad can be a powerful CV boost as it can show employers that you have the skills they need to meet their business goals.Extend your social and professional networks
By studying abroad, you will be able to form fruitful relationships with people from all over the world. You will get closer to many people with whom you could become lifelong friends. Certain relationships can sometimes lead to career opportunities, including internships, job offers and even business partnerships. It is likely that you will meet a lot of people from all over the world studying at the university you attend, giving you the opportunity to interact with a wide range of people from everywhere. Having a large network increases your chances of coming into contact with career and social opportunities.Familiarize yourself with other cultures and perspectives
Being exposed to a new culture allows you to broaden your view of the world. You can also develop new perspectives by studying abroad. You may work with co-workers from different countries in future jobs. This will also be the case if you go to study abroad, so this will give you a better understanding of other cultures and a more international outlook. Much of our human behavior is influenced by our cultural ancestors. Gaining different perspectives can help us approach situations in new and original ways. While studying abroad, you will meet a diversity of people, which will help you broaden your horizons and broaden your mind. Also, the best way to learn about another culture is to experience it personally, so living in another country is the best way to do it.Developing self-confidence
You will acquire valuable life skills, particularly in terms of independence and adaptability, by immersing yourself in a foreign culture. This can give you extra confidence in your personal and professional life. The challenges of studying abroad can seem daunting, but they can help you grow as a person. It is believed that the ability to speak a foreign language can improve your skills as a communicator, which gives you greater self-confidence. You can gain confidence in studying abroad by learning certain skills that help you feel more comfortable communicating with other people, such as:- Good leadership skills and team management are very important in almost all working environments. Understanding leadership and motivating others can help you bond more deeply with people, whether you are working on a class project with international students or spending a semester abroad.
- Mastering Communication Techniques. Knowing how to write, speak and negotiate is essential to successful communication in a foreign country and are also skills that are valued by employers.
- Intercultural awareness. Our heritage and cultural values have a strong influence on how we think and act. Studying abroad reminds you to consider the perspectives of people who are different from your own. Remember that what is acceptable and indeed beneficial in one culture may be viewed as inappropriate in another.
Travel the World
Studying Abroad allows you to explore the world and visit places you might never have the chance to visit otherwise. During your free time you can enjoy the pleasure of holidaying in your new home. This way, you will learn more about your host country than if you only make short trips. You may also explore neighboring regions and countries when you study abroad.Discovering foreign opportunities that are beneficial for your career
The advantage of studying abroad is that it allows you to develop your career options, depending on what you are studying. If you are interested in finance, consider studying in cities like London or Hong Kong, as these are both well known for their banks and financial companies. Often, an international employer wants to have proof that the candidate is able to adapt to global conditions. Studying abroad, especially in your area of interest, gives you the opportunity to showcase transferable skills such as intercultural communication and a knowledge of international politics on your CV.