Choosing to study abroad may seem like a huge step at the time, but it’s definitely worth it! There are countless reasons why you should study abroad, but let’s begin with the biggest.
My Experience Studying Abroad
In 2015, I decided to take the first big leap of faith and study abroad in Spain for the summer. It was a university program, led by my university professors, but it was still my first experience living abroad. I enjoyed the experience so much that I decided to study abroad AGAIN, and spent one semester living in Paris.
Since then, I even did my entire master’s overseas so I guess you could say I’m a big advocate for studying abroad, for a multitude of reasons:
1. It expands your mindset
Moving to a new country is a big step that not many people do! You will create memories and enjoy life in a way that some people never experience in a lifetime. You will be thrust out of your comfort zone and come back stronger than ever. You’re going to return a changed person from all the travels and eye-opening adventures. It may sound a bit cliché but it’s true! There’s a quote that I think sums it up pretty well:
“Live abroad, if you can. Understand cultures other than your own. As your understanding of other cultures increases, your understanding of yourself and your own culture will increase exponentially.“
— Tom Freston
2. You will see new places
Okay, yes, you are studying, but it’s also so easy to travel! If you’re in Europe, you can easily take a quick train to another country. In Asia and Latin America, one quick flight and you’re in a different country. This sounds crazy when you’re from the US, but you have the opportunity to experience many different places and cultures very easily and in close proximity.
3. You can pick up a new language
If you’re motivated that is! They say that the best way to learn a language is through immersion, and studying abroad definitely gives you that! Take classes while you’re there and I promise that you will see a difference! I also found that going to language exchanges to practice was a great way to meet people, locals and foreigners alike!
Know someone going abroad or trying to convince them? Help them prepare for their trip with this gift guide for someone moving abroad!
4. You have the support
Moving abroad is hard, but studying abroad is easier. Why? Because no matter how bad a situation could be, you still have the support of your home university and of your family back home. Your university has your back– whether with visa issues, housing, or even just meeting others! If you move abroad later in life, it’s nice, but a bit more difficult.
5. There’s a sense of community
You will meet other people studying abroad, from your own country and from others! Most of the time, you will take classes and do all kinds of events with the same people. You really don’t have to worry about making friends because the university helps provide the social integration with others doing their exchange.
6. Visas are hard to come by once you’re working!
Listen… if you’re on a student visa… you can go ANYWHERE. Do you know how hard that is to do later in life?! Once you’re working it means lengthy visa processes, refusals of visa sponsorships, and packing up your entire life to go somewhere else. Studying abroad opens the door to so many different countries that you won’t always have an opportunity with.
7. You will meet soo many new people
My study abroad experience was amazing because of the people. I met so many people from so many different nationalities, and it really made me realize how vast the world really is! I made friends for life, because the experiences that you share with these people will always be on a different level.
8. You can enter the world’s best museums and attractions for free
Well, at least in Europe! At many major museums and attractions, you can enter completely for free if you are an EU student under 26. This doesn’t mean that you need to be European– just studying there!
9. You have the most free time you will ever have
Let’s be real: Once you start working, that’s it. No more summer holidays. No more spring break. No more “my class is canceled so I have the day free.” If you live abroad as a student, you have way more time to explore your home city, as well as explore the region!
I lived in Madrid for 4 months and in Valencia for 6 months. When I was in Valencia, I was working, whereas in Madrid I was studying. I felt like I got to see and do more in the city of Madrid than in Valencia, even though I lived there longer!
10. You’ll have the best time of your life
It’s just a fact! There’s a reason why everyone who studies abroad can’t stop talking about their experience. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity that you need to take advantage of sooner rather than later.
I definitely don’t regret my study abroad experience and neither should you! It may be scary to jump into the unknown but life is full of regrets and this shouldn’t be one of them!
Know someone studying abroad? Help them prepare for their trip with this study abroad gift guide!
The Comments
Study Abroad Gift Guide: 10 Gifts For A Friend Going Abroad
[…] Studying abroad is an amazing experience that anyone would be lucky to experience. Once you’re away from your friends and family though, it can also be a bit scary! If you want to help your friend, relative, or loved one, a good way to show your support is helping them to prepare with things that they need, or fun things to get them excited about their trip. […]