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“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” ~

Saint Augustine

 Benefits of Studying Abroad

Studying abroad has numerous benefits. Through our research and surveys, we have determined some of the top reasons to pursue a Study Abroad Program while attending College/University.

Improve Language Skills- There is no better way to improve your language skills than total immersion into a country that uses that language.

Experience Diverse Teaching Styles- Each country uses a different style of teaching. By studying abroad you can experience learning in a different cultural style.

Resume Builder- Studying abroad is an experience that is appreciated by potential employers. According to the Open Doors Report by the Institute of International Education, more than 31 million job ads referenced the soft skills and global skills associated with studying abroad in 2019.

Enhance Personal/Professional Network- Connections and friendships made while traveling and studying abroad typically last a lifetime even across borders. These connections can be used to have a local experience while traveling in a foreign country as well as for developing a professional business network.

Cultural Learning- By immersing yourself in a new culture you will learn the similarities and differences between the local culture to your own. This helps create more open-minded individuals and can help in developing the skills to view things from the POV of another culture.

Improve Confidence and Personal Skills- Traveling alone to a new country can be an intimidating experience. Anyone that is able to take this leap and explore the world alone will be rewarded with a confidence boost. In addition, key skills such as leadership, communication, problem-solving, and time management are developed from studying abroad.

See the world- We live in a beautiful world. Through traveling you can experience many different landscapes and unforgettable sights.

Increase Career Opportunities- Besides any skills acquired from studying abroad helping your professional profile these skills also can increase the scope of your job search with international opportunities.

Increase Grad School Opportunities- Just like the increased scope of job opportunities, there are more and more grad school opportunities if one is willing to complete their degree abroad.

Major Life Experience- Without a doubt, studying abroad can be the experience of a lifetime. Everyone has a different personalized experience in which their lives are forever changed in some way. This is an option that should be equally accessible to all students of every background.

Travel Stories

“It completely changed my life goals and the path I decided to take following college. It has everything to do with how I travel

now as an adult. It helped me become more open-minded, appreciate different cultures, and allows me to connect with different people easily.”

- Winta Tesfa (2011 East High School Graduate)

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Andrea Rosas, South Korea, Summer 2024

"In sharing my story, I hope to leave you with a simple message: cherish the one life you have. Pursue the dreams that seem impossible. I once thought studying abroad was beyond my reach, but with the support of my professors, community members, and mentors, I made it a reality. Embracing new experiences can open doors to countless connections and opportunities, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for life."

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Daphney Phradestin- Seoul, Fall 2023

“Studying abroad was one of the best experiences I've had as a college student, meeting many new people, and forming connections I hope to maintain….while traveling to another country can be intimidating, stepping out of your comfort zone to embrace new experiences is immensely rewarding.”

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Taz Walker- Medical School in Grenada

I believe that spending time abroad for an extended period is an experience that everyone needs to have–especially those that come from underserved communities. Being exposed to different cultures and experiences highlights that the world is more expansive and complex than in the neighborhood I grew up in.

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Lauren Johnson - Semester at Sea 2022

“Sometimes we have to look a little harder to get the support we need but if it is your dream I definitely suggest doing it because we only have one life to live and we should live it to the fullest.”

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Leslie Lui - Italy 2015

“It’s safe to say I was scared of the things I would miss out at home, but I was more scared of the regret I’d have if I didn’t go! There’s so much we don’t know, and so much we won’t until we take the chance and do it. So if you’re considering exploring what our world has to offer, do it, and the rest will follow!”

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Malissa Gill - Japan 2015

“Oftentimes we unconsciously view the world centered around us. Studying abroad helps change that and provides an astounding perspective and understanding on how much bigger the world is than we are, and how that’s not a bad thing.”

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Segen Tekle-Ghana, 2013

“Learning about the world helps me understand and connect to the people in it,” he smiled humbly.

-The man from the market

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Eliher Meza-Barcelona, Spain 2013

“I had an emotional moment when I realized how blessed I was to be studying in a country across the world, miles away from what I call home. I never imagined going to college, much less studying abroad.”

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Chand Jiwani- Argentina 2014/Semester at Sea 2015

“No one is ever able to describe their abroad experiences articulately because they were not meant to be spoken, they were meant to be lived and remembered that way. That is the power of studying abroad and the impact that it has on individuals.“

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Shayne Wolfe-Prague, Czech Republic 2017

“Each study abroad journey is personalized to the individual, but it is a journey that you may never get to experience otherwise. I have some of the best memories of my life in Prague and throughout Europe, and if I could do it again, I would do the same exact thing.”

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Shawn Wall- New Zealand 2014

“You find a whole new you once you get abroad. I like to call this the true you. You without any external influences. The you that you show to the world.”

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Make a Donation

If you would like to help students create new stories and memories like these then join our cause and donate now to support equal access to international education.