Why Study Abroad? (2024)

FAQs

Why Study Abroad? ›

There are a lot of reasons to study abroad – a desire for travel and new experiences, the chance to practice another language, the opportunity to find yourself and discover your capabilities in the world, to make new friends, to live in a different culture . . . the list could go on and on.

By studying abroad, you will experience new perspectives, learn how to navigate different cultures, work with diverse peers, and communicate in other languages.

One of the ultimate reasons to study abroad is to gain life experience. You'll learn how to organize your life and condense it into one suitcase, handle unforeseen situations, be independent and self-sufficient. When you're thousands of miles away from home, spontaneity and adventure are your best friends.

If you find that you're often “on the go” and regularly try new things at school or at home, you might be a great candidate to study abroad. Even if you're nervous about missing your friends and family back home, remember that cultural exchange is about meeting new friends.

Personal growth: “To encourage myself to change in some way” Better academic knowledge: “To get a better university education” Learning or improving foreign language skills: “Because the host country language is useful” Cross-cultural interest: “To get in contact with people from other countries”

Write down the things you're excited to see, do, eat while abroad. Think about what intimidates you or what will be challenging in a new country. Doodle some of your goals for your summer/semester/year abroad, and really think about what it is that has made studying abroad so important to you.

Going abroad is an exciting challenge and a great opportunity to escape your comfort zones. You'll have the opportunity to pick up new skills you may not have had the chance to whilst studying at home, including navigating a new city, communicating in a different language, and budgeting with an unfamiliar currency.

Going abroad for a year, semester or summer school can increase your employability, explore a new country and provides you with valuable life experience. Choosing to work or study overseas as part of your degree helps broaden your horizons and allows you to gain new perspectives.

Why did you choose the USA as a study abroad destination and how will it help you to shape your future? ›

A US education can add leverage to your long-term career goals and growth. The experience you gain from studying in a US university can help you gain self-confidence, critical thinking skills, and also cross-cultural skills making you a valuable asset to employers globally.

When it comes to students, deciding whether to study abroad or stay in their home country for further studies is a major dilemma. Both options have their unique advantages. Studying at home provides a cosy and familiar atmosphere while studying abroad can offer enhanced professional opportunities and personal growth.

With study abroad, you can experience new places and cultures, make friends from around the world, and gain a global perspective–while earning credits towards your degree. It will allow you to develop highly-valued skills such as intercultural communication, foreign languages, adaptability, and problem-solving.

Here is an example of how you could answer this question: “I am willing to move overseas for this job because I believe that it is a great opportunity to learn about new cultures and gain work experience in a different country.

Describe the role you typically play on a team or in a group. In what way(s) would you have a positive influence on your group? What do you perceive your responsibilities to be as a member of your study abroad group? Tell us about a time that you have been in an unfamiliar culture and how you have responded to it.

There are plenty of reasons to work abroad. Perhaps you want to develop your professional skills, experience personal growth, or gain insights into other cultures. Maybe you'd like to earn a higher salary, enjoy the opportunity to travel, or even improve future career opportunities.