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Studying Abroad: Do It If You Can

October 27th, 2009 by Jim Hart

Foreign exchange programs aren't just for the lucky few anymore. In fact, the academic world has well-documented the benefits to all involved and are working toward making studying abroad more available for the masses. Studying on foreign soil is as old as apprentices journeying to craftsmen to learn a trade, except today's students are packing up to learn from the masters regarding art, science, math and even medicine. Here are just a few of the perks you can expect to gain in addition to knowledge (and some frequent flier miles):

1. Personal growth. In addition to developing friendships that tend to last a lifetime, other effects of international study are measurable. Learning in the midst of a different culture, often even a different language, can lead to an increase in the ability to comprehend. What's more, college students' overall view of the world evolves to include compassion in areas that didn't impact them on their home soil. Things like self reliance and independence levels are raised in the process.

2. You will represent your country with all that you do. College students abroad are given opportunities to extend diplomacy with every interaction they have. You'll have the opportunity to become what could be some people's first (and maybe only) dealings with an American citizen. While you'll be learning, you could also be teaching at the same time. In the process your world view will change and you'll have a unique opportunity to reflect on your value system.

3. The journey often leads to a shift in career goals. A new and broader perspective gives students a chance to reevaluate their college major before entering the workforce. What's more, up to 64% of respondents attribute their decision to attend graduate school to their time abroad.

Whereas international study programs used to be primarily a year long, today there are ample opportunities for ten or even six-week courses. If you can swing it, try to stay as long as possible. The longer your experience, the more likely these benefits will positively impact you.

Why not go to your advisor and start asking some questions? Some programs allow you to apply your financial aid to various colleges throughout the world. In many cases, credits transfer and it's a simple matter of an application to fill out. You have the rest of your life to be an adult, why not let some international travel help to mold the kind of adult you will be?

Jim Hart has been the director of academic advising at a medium-sized university for eight years. His interests include student exchange programs, online college graduate degrees, career advising, online degrees in the sciences, and CLEP examinations.