To All Students: Why You Should Study Abroad to Boost Your Career

In today's globalized world, it is not enough to have a degree from a reputable institution. Employers are looking for candidates who have the skills, knowledge, and competencies to work in diverse and multicultural environments. Study Abroad is an essential part of any university' s internationalization strategy when it comes to students. One of the best ways to acquire these attributes is through study abroad programs and student international experience.

Study abroad programs are academic opportunities that allow students to spend a semester, a year, or a summer in another country, taking courses, doing internships, or conducting research. Student international experience refers to any form of learning or engagement that takes place outside one's home country, such as volunteering, traveling, or working.

These experiences have many benefits for students, both personally and professionally. Here are some of the reasons why study abroad programs and student international experience are essential for the future professionals:

They enhance intercultural competence and communication skills

Studying or living in another country exposes students to different cultures, languages, values, and perspectives. This helps them develop intercultural competence, which is the ability to interact effectively and appropriately with people from diverse backgrounds. Intercultural competence is a key skill for the future professionals, as they will have to work with colleagues, clients, and partners from different countries and regions.

Studying or living abroad also improves communication skills, as students have to adapt to different modes of expression, styles of communication, and norms of etiquette. Communication skills are essential for any profession, as they enable one to convey ideas clearly, listen actively, negotiate effectively, and resolve conflicts constructively.

They increase employability and career opportunities

Studying or living abroad can boost one's employability and career prospects in several ways. First, it can enhance one's academic performance and credentials, as students can access high-quality education, learn new subjects, or gain specialized knowledge in their fields of interest. Second, it can expand one's professional network and connections, as students can meet potential mentors, employers, or collaborators in their host countries. Third, it can demonstrate one's initiative, adaptability, and resilience, as students have to overcome challenges, cope with uncertainty, and manage change in unfamiliar settings.

There is evidence that study abroad programs and student international experience can increase one's chances of getting hired or promoted. According to a survey by the Institute of International Education (IIE), 83% of employers said that study abroad experience was important when evaluating job candidates. Moreover, a study by the British Council found that graduates who had international experience were more likely to be employed within six months of graduation than those who did not.

They foster global awareness and citizenship

Studying or living abroad can also foster global awareness and citizenship among students. Global awareness is the understanding of the interconnectedness and interdependence of the world's social, economic, political, and environmental issues. Citizenship is the sense of responsibility and commitment to contribute to the well-being of one's local and global communities.

Studying or living abroad can enhance global awareness and citizenship by exposing students to different realities, challenges, and opportunities that affect people around the world. Students can learn about different perspectives and multiple solutions to the same problem and develop out-of-the-box attitude for problem solving in professional arena.

Global awareness and citizenship are vital for future professionals, as they will have to deal with complex and dynamic issues that transcend national boundaries. They will also have to collaborate with diverse stakeholders who have different interests and values. By being aware of and engaged with the global community, they can become more informed, ethical, and effective professionals.

Why You Should Study or Live Abroad During Your Academic Journey

Study abroad programs and student international experience are not only enriching and enjoyable experiences for students. They are also essential for preparing them for the future professional world. By studying or living abroad, students can develop intercultural competence and communication skills that will enable them to work in diverse and multicultural environments. They can also increase their employability and career opportunities by enhancing their academic performance and credentials, expanding their professional network and connections, and demonstrating their initiative, adaptability, and resilience. Moreover, they can foster global awareness and citizenship by learning about the world's issues and contributing to its well-being.

Therefore, students should seize any opportunity to study or live abroad during their academic journey. They will not only gain valuable personal and professional benefits but also become more well-rounded individuals who can thrive in the globalized world.

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