This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Georgia Southern chapter.
As an international student, I often get asked why did I choose to come to America. I am originally from Finland which is a rather small country in Scandinavia. Why on earth would I want travel for hours on end to spend a semester studying in a university in the small town of Statesboro for one semester?
Well, here is why I came here and why you too should definitely consider studying abroad.
1. It will look good on your CV
Employers appreciate the international experience. It shows that you can engage in long-term projects, like applying for an exchange position, then going through the formalities and eventually living in another culture.
2. You will better your language skills
Whether it is Spanish, French, or Japanese, living in a non-English speaking culture will do amazing things to your language skills. You will gain fluency and courage to speak in a foreign language.
3. You get to meet new people and make lifelong friends
Having international friends is just superb. Because everyone’s cultural background is so different, conversations between people are always interesting.
4. You will gain independence
Studying abroad is the ultimate test for independence. Your family and friends are left behind and you have to survive in a foreign culture on your own. I guarantee you that when you come back from your study abroad session, you will rely more on yourself than others.
5. You will learn new things about different cultures
And in turn that will make you more sensitive when you meet people from different cultures back home. As a plus, you get to see so many cool places!
6. It will make you see your own culture differently
Maybe your own culture isn’t as perfect as you thought it would be? Studying abroad will also broaden your perspectives on your own culture as well as other cultures.
7. You will learn about yourself
Living among another culture will help you discover what you’re good at and what you will need to improve.
8. It will make you appreciate home more
During my time in the U.S., I really came to appreciate Finnish food in a completely new way.
9. You are forced to grow up
While studying abroad, you are forced to deal with things on your own without help from your parents. And let’s face it, they can’t really do anything if you are on the other side of the Pacific Ocean.
10. It will be an adventure
Studying abroad will be unforgettable. It will change your perspective on the world and on life. It will reveal things about you that you never knew existed inside you. It will make you a better version of yourself.
So, where should you look first for opportunities to study abroad? Check out the Office for International Programs and Services here at Georgia Southern and take a look at their summer programs and exchange programs.
I wish you…