Studying abroad has become increasingly popular in recent years. Many people choose to study abroad for a higher quality of education, some to learn a language and others just for the experience.
If you are considering studying overseas, we have compiled a list of the top 5 reasons students choose to study abroad:
Explore the World
Choosing to study abroad provides you with the opportunity to explore a part of the world that you may not have been to before. It gives you the chance to learn about different cultures and ways of life that you might not have previously known about.
Yes, studying abroad will mean you are based in one location, but it also provides you with the opportunity to visit other countries that are close by. This could mean popping to a neighbouring country for just a weekend which would have been too far to do from the UK.
Develop Your Language Skills
Studying in another country provides the chance to learn or further develop another language. People always say the best way to learn a language is to immerse yourself in it. So, living in a country where people speak it every day is the best way to do so.
Although one of the great benefits of studying abroad, it is vital you are still able to understand what you are being taught. Many courses will be conducted in English, but diving into a course which is held in a foreign language entirely new for you is may not the best idea! Despite this, years abroad are often pass-fail, such that there is less pressure to get perfect grades in every course.
Personal Development
Nothing says thrown in at the deep end more than moving to a foreign country to study when you know nobody there and may not be able to speak the language. Studying abroad can really help you find your independence and test your problem-solving skills when any issues or challenges may arise.
It is important to remember that being by yourself in a new country can be overwhelming, but there will always be support and help available to you. Be that through the institution you are studying at or from friends, family or others within your support network back at home. Nevertheless, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger!
Find New Hobbies and Interests
Studying abroad may open up your eyes to new hobbies and activities you had never considered doing before. Joining groups and societies is a great way to meet like-minded people and learn something new. Meeting new people also provides the chance to make lifelong friendships, and connect with people you may never have come across whilst studying at home.
Career Prospects
Employers view studying abroad very highly. Students who do so are known to display resilience and show they are not afraid to overcome challenges. It demonstrates a commitment to studying a course despite being in unfamiliar surroundings, and curiosity which can translate into creativity within a workplace setting. Having experienced different cultures, students who have studied abroad may have a different perspective on things, increasing the level of diversity and innovation within the workplace.
