For many years, studying abroad has been considered a rite of passage for daring university students all over the world. The benefits of studying abroad for academic, cultural, and career reasons are more important than ever, even while the allure of new experiences and an interesting social life still hold some appeal.
Additionally, studying abroad is no longer exclusively for undergraduates. Graduates wishing to pursue advanced degrees abroad, notably in the United States, have increased in recent years. And it is obvious why graduates with a business focus are especially eager to get foreign experience through their courses in the current globalised industry.
Our students come from all around the world and attend classes at Hult’s international campuses. an ambitious bachelor’s student. To a prospective MBA student seeking a change. Each person has a unique motivation for pursuing higher education overseas. Speaking with Hult students reveals some recurring themes. Here are the top five advantages of studying abroad, in our opinion.
Seize the chance to travel the world.
An international degree programme is not a vacation. It takes effort. Your schedule will be full of exams, dissertations, assignments, and networking activities. However, you can use the leisure time you do have to travel to new places and explore the area around your new metropolis.
You are not restricted to one nation while you study abroad. Take advantage of the chance to go to as many nations as you can. Being able to explore the world is more reasonable than you might imagine thanks to fantastic student travel discounts and international low-cost carriers.
Your school might also offer chances for international exchange programmes that will increase your exposure to the world. Even individuals enrolled in a one-year programme can live and study in up to six different countries on three continents because of Hult’s worldwide campus network.
Intensify your network.
One of the most popular motives for studying abroad is the opportunity to meet people from different cultures. You will work alongside students from all over the world in order to complete your degree.
You’ll establish connections with an intriguing and varied new peer group as well as a global professional network. While studying abroad, it is also beneficial to establish solid relationships with your lecturers. Their knowledge, contacts, and mentorship can be a huge help to you during your studies and afterwards.
While studying abroad, many students form lasting friendships. Oceans are no longer a barrier to communication in the modern world. Your network will forever be expanded by the friends you make while travelling. The connections you develop, along with forming fulfilling personal friendships, are the most priceless resource you can have in your working life.
Improve your knowledge of foreign cultures and business
In a world that is more connected than ever, open-minded respect and understanding of various cultures are crucial. American novelist Mark Twain expressed it best when he said, “Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.”
You will obtain a deeper awareness of various cultures and customs as well as a larger context for comprehending today’s most critical international challenges by living and studying abroad. Your preconceptions will be questioned and you’ll be exposed to fresh perspectives on the world by everyone from your classmates to your instructors when you learn in an international setting.
You will gain from a fresh, international viewpoint on your area of studying in abroad. If you wish to work in an international business setting, it is essential to observe how different cultures approach business issues and how different working styles impact teams. Additionally, you can be exposed to a different academic culture while studying in abroad. As a result, you may need to exercise more independence because academics may expect you to be more responsible for your education than you might be in your native country.
Of course, you will have the chance to become fully immersed in the local culture outside of the classroom by taking part in the cuisine, celebrations, and traditions of your host nation.
Increased employability.
It goes without saying that studying abroad improves graduates’ employability. Your time abroad is a great opportunity to improve your resume, whether it’s through learning a second language, receiving specialised training, or building important “soft skills” like adaptation, communication, and cross-cultural understanding.
Additionally, you might have the opportunity to work overseas while you’re a student or afterwards. You might be able to work a part-time job, complete an internship, or even continue your career abroad, depending on your visa situation and the nation in which you’re enrolled in school.
Before selecting your course abroad, it is wise to do some study because restrictions on student work differ between nations. The career counsellors at your school can also be a great resource for information on job openings and other strategies to increase your employability once you graduate.
Acquiring important life skills, and fostering resilience.
Some students experience living away from home for the first time while studying abroad. Even for graduate students, transitioning to a foreign country and way of life can be challenging. Your ability to solve problems will also be put to the test as you quickly acclimate to your new environment.
Additionally, it will improve your resilience, self-reliance, and communication abilities.
One of the biggest advantages of studying abroad is learning these essential “survival skills.” After the culture shock wears off, you’ll feel more independent and self-assured.
Your daily experiences abroad help you develop greater confidence and competence, from simple personal activities like opening an international bank account and registering with a doctor to understanding how negotiating strategies and leadership traits vary from culture to culture. And regardless of your job route, these talents will be immediately useful in your working life.
