Studying abroad can benefit your career and education. 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 surely be advantageous.
Capture the attention of recruiters
It 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. A number of 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. The facts of having overcome cultural shocks and stepping out of your comfort zone will therefore be viewed positively by potential employers.
“Students who study abroad offer 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, vacancies and business partners.
It is likely that you will find 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 all kinds of places. Having a large network increases your chances of coming into contact with career and social opportunities.
Learn about new cultures and outlooks
Being exposed to a new culture yourself allows you to broaden your view of the world. You can develop a new perspective by studying abroad.
You can work with foreign workers in your next job. This is the case if you go to study abroad, as this will give you a better understanding of other cultures and the 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 deeper with people, whether you are working on a class project with international students or spending a semester abroad.
- UnderstandingTechniques Communication What is essential to communicate in a foreign country is to know how to write, speak and negotiate.
- Intercultural awareness, for our heritage and values of our culture 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 accepted and 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 been otherwise. During your free time you can enjoy the pleasures of the holidays in your new home. This way, you will learn more about your area than if you only make short visits.
You can explore other 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 a city like London or Hong Kong, which are known for their businesses.
Often, an international employer wants to have proof that the candidate is able to adapt to global conditions.
In conclusion
Studying abroad, especially in your area of interest, gives you the opportunity to showcase transferable skills such as intercultural communication and knowledge of international politics on your CV.
