The Benefits of Studying Abroad: A Life-Enhancing Experience

The Benefits of Studying Abroad: A Life-Enhancing Experience

by

Kathryn Lancioni
Faculty
The Bologna Project

What’s the one thing most students regret after graduating from college? Not studying abroad. The experience offers students a chance to step out of their comfort zone, explore new cultures, and engage in self-discovery, resulting in personal and academic growth. Studying abroad has become easier than ever before, with the world becoming truly interconnected. The benefits of studying abroad go far beyond the classroom. Let’s explore how studying abroad can be a transformative experience for students.

1. Cultural Immersion

One of the most obvious benefits of studying abroad is immersing yourself in a completely different culture. Being in a foreign country enables you to experience new traditions, customs, and cuisines firsthand.

This immersion is not only fun but also expands your worldview, helping you better understand global issues, international relations, and different societal norms. You’ll have the opportunity to build cultural awareness and empathy, fostering a more open-minded and inclusive perspective — essential traits in today’s globalized world.

Known as Italy’s “red city,” Bologna is famous for its historic university, progressive politics, and extraordinary food.

2. Personal Growth

Living in a new country challenges you in unimaginable ways. Whether you’re navigating an unfamiliar environment, overcoming language barriers, or trying to shop with local merchants, these challenges encourage you to become more self-reliant, adaptable, and resourceful.

For most students, studying abroad is their first time living away from home for an extended period. It teaches you how to manage your time, as well as your finances and responsibilities. The independence you gain from being in a new country can boost your self-confidence and sense of accomplishment.

ieiMedia students, working all the angles, in Urbino, Italy.

3. Academic and Professional Advantages

Studying abroad isn’t just about traveling the world — it’s also about advancing your education. Study abroad programs allow you to study specific fields not available at your home institution.

From a career standpoint, studying abroad can help you stand out in a competitive job market. Employers value candidates with international experience, as it shows adaptability, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in diverse environments. In addition, studying abroad can help you grow your professional network, giving you contacts in different parts of the world.

 4. Communication Skills

If you choose to study in a country where a different language is spoken, you’ll have the chance to improve your language skills. While academic courses are important, there’s nothing better than the immersion you get by living where that language is used daily.

Being forced to speak a new language – ordering food, making new friends, or navigating public transport – accelerates your learning. Becoming fluent in another language is a valuable skill that opens new career opportunities and enhances communication abilities. It is also just really fun!

Students learn to shoot video and practice working with interpreters.

5. Lifelong Friendships

One of the most rewarding aspects of studying abroad is the chance to meet people from all over the globe. You’ll interact with peers, locals, and people from diverse backgrounds, forming friendships that can last forever.

Building and developing relationships with people from other countries and cultures can challenge your preconceived notions and help you grow emotionally and socially. It offers a chance to develop sympathy and understanding while learning about the commonalities and differences that make us unique yet also help to unite us. 

Mixing work and fun in Piazza della Repubblica (Urbino).

6. An Opportunity to Explore

When you study abroad, you’ll be based in an area that offers opportunities to explore nearby regions. For instance, studying in Europe allows you to easily take weekend trips to neighboring countries and experience different cultures, landscapes, and histories.


ieiMedia students collaborating on their projects.

7. Improved Mental Flexibility

When you study abroad, you’ll be exposed to new ways of thinking and problem-solving. Different cultures approach challenges in ways that contrast with your own, and by observing and participating in these different solutions, you’ll become more broad and adaptable in your thinking.

This ability to adapt and think in multiple ways can be incredibly valuable for personal development and in the workplace, where creative problem-solving and innovative thinking are highly valued.

ieiMedia students touring a TV studio in Berlin

8. Increased Confidence and Resilience

You'll inevitably become more resilient as you navigate the challenges of living in a new country – from dealing with homesickness to managing a rigorous academic schedule. Learning how to overcome obstacles and survive in an unfamiliar environment can boost your confidence in your academic abilities and overall ability to handle life's hurdles.

Conclusion

From cultural immersion to enhanced language skills, studying abroad is much more than just an academic experience. It offers a unique chance to grow personally and professionally in ways that would be hard to replicate at home. Apart from the increased career prospects and personal resilience, the benefits are wide-ranging and long-lasting. If you are considering studying abroad, don’t hesitate to do it!  Embrace the adventure, challenge yourself, and open your mind to the world beyond your borders.

Would you like to join us?

Get started on your journey with ieiMedia by submitting the GET STARTED FORM. We’ll follow up with you to answer any questions you have about programs of interest, help with registration for an info session, and review your submission for eligibility for our programs and scholarship opportunities. If you have any questions regarding this form, please reach out to admissions@ieimedia.com.

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