There are countless good reasons to study, intern, and do research abroad. The best ones are personal to you, of course, but we’ve collected a sizable number of favorites over the years, too. And what better time to share them than in honor of International Education Week?!
So, whether you’re most looking forward to earning credit, filling your passport with stamps, or trying new food, here are our top 5 reasons to study abroad:
Because your bucket list shouldn’t wait
You’d be amazed how many once-in-a-lifetime experiences can fit into a term abroad. And we don’t just mean the big things like snorkeling along the Great Barrier Reef. Discovering breathtaking works of art in local museums, becoming a regular at the favorite local coffee shop, finding your new favorite piece of jewelry at the hidden gem market that tourists don’t know about—all of these experiences (and more) are waiting for you abroad!
“[Studying abroad] was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I got to explore the beauty of New Zealand, learn new things, and meet new friends along the way. Everything was very well organized, and I had the best time seeing cool landscapes and wildlife.” –AeWa S., Berry College
Because your comfort zone is boring
Trust us, nothing will boost your confidence like learning how to navigate your destination's public transportation like a local! Studying abroad is an experience like no other that will broaden your worldview, sharpen your cultural literacy skills, and leave you with a better understanding of yourself.
“I feel like I’ve found a second home in Costa Rica. The enriching ideology of pura vida taken from the locals has helped me grow as a person and a student in ways I never thought imaginable.” –Alex Z., University of Colorado, Boulder
Because nothing bonds people like exploring a new environment
The friends you meet abroad quickly become your lifeline. They’ll support you through homesickness, culture shock, and the frustration of shopping in a supermarket that doesn’t sell peanut butter. Your group will also become your travel partners, accompanying you as you make new memories, immerse yourself in fascinating coursework, and grow as a person! (Plus, they won’t tire of your “back when I was in Barcelona” stories.)
“I am not kidding when I say that this has been the best experience of my life. Academically, the University of Sydney was challenging but very gratifying, and socially, I had the pleasure of meeting friends who became family.” –Manuel M., Elmhurst University
Because flirting sounds better in Spanish (or Italian, or Japanese, or Arabic...)
No matter your destination, there’s no better strategy for learning a new language than full immersion. From ordering in restaurants like a native speaker to passing as a local when tourists ask you for directions, going abroad is the surest way to take your language skills to the next level.
“I went to Spain wanting to cement my language skills, and the Bilbao program let me do exactly that. My host parents supported my language immersion tirelessly – talking with me over daily family-style lunch about Basque culture and teaching me new vocabulary – while also giving me the independence to explore the city and travel.” –Kira C., Western Colorado University
Because international experience looks really good on a resume
Interning abroad is the chicest way to explore a potential future career, add experience to your resume, and start creating an international network. Studying and doing research abroad is also an impressive benefit on job and graduate school applications.
“I was able to integrate myself into the community through service-learning at a local emergency department in Granada. These opportunities have assisted me in developing compassion and leadership attributes [while] integrating cultural perspectives and language influences… not to mention it looks GREAT on a resume.” –EliAnna B., Messiah University
No matter your favorite reasons for studying abroad, WorldStrides has the ideal program for you. Embrace the exciting energy of International Education Week and discover your next great adventure.