Studying Abroad – Is it Worth Your Time, Effort, and Money?

Studying abroad is an investment, and like any other investment one wants a return.  And like any other venture, the rate of success highly depends on your abilities and how you deal with things.  Going abroad to study is not a trivial task.  You need a lot of time to prepare for it and make sure things will go smoothly.  And when you are already there and studying, one needs to exert more than the usual effort when studying at the comfort of your home country.  But most importantly, studying abroad can drain your savings or your parents’ if you are not smart enough to spend wisely. 

Below are essential benefits one can get, either personally or professionally, when or after studying abroad:

•          New cultures and experiences: 

If there is no place like home, then the place where you experience new cultures and meet diversities is undeniably the next best thing and something you won’t forget.  There is a different and unique feeling one discovers when exposed to new ways of doing things, especially if it is quite unusual or the opposite of what has been accustomed to.  For many they use the term “culture shock” but for some it’s an adventure that needs to be explored. 

•          Exposure to global companies: 

There are programs and studies that require students to work for top global companies to experience real-life scenarios as professionals.  Such direct participation helps students realize their potentials and eventually decide the career path they want to pursue.  And if you are really good and lucky enough, some companies who noticed your abilities may offer formal job after your course. 

•          Extended network: 

This is something that comes easily for international students unless of course you decided not to talk to your classmates or housemates for some reasons.  After your study abroad, you have more foreign friends, more professors and colleagues to ask help for, and if you have the entrepreneurial spirit, you could have identified probable market or customers already.  Of course, social skill is very important if you really want to expand and extend your social network. 

•          Additional credit to your portfolio: 

Big and leading companies sometimes factor international studies experiences when filling key positions.  This is quite normal for companies with global operations and who are seeking professionals with clear understanding and significant experience on global businesses and marketing.  So if you do have one, highlight it on your resume and do not forget to mention it on during interviews!

•          New skills acquired and discovered: 

Sometimes we realized how good we are or that we have such skill when pressured by time or circumstances.  Studying abroad can bring out the best in you.  Especially when you are doing everything – cleaning the house, preparing food, handling bills, managing your study, and other responsibilities that used to be not yours until you study abroad.  Sounds fun, maybe but the thing to remember is what you learn and discover about yourself when faced with such overwhelming tasks.