Expand your Horizons: How Studying Abroad Can Boost Your CV and Enrich Your Life

There are numerous reasons why it makes sense to continue your education after school and attend a college or university. In addition to the academic advantages, this decision can have various personal and professional benefits too.

But have you ever considered studying abroad? International study is a very popular option amongst women in the US, with recent statistics indicating that nearly twice as many female students choose to study abroad as their male counterparts. Although it can be a rather daunting prospect, a lot can be said for escaping your comfort zone and experiencing something new.

What’s more, the virtues of higher education can be amplified by moving to and living in a completely different country. But how exactly can it enrich and enhance your life?

Experience New Cultures
By fully immersing yourself in another country’s culture, you’ll have a greater appreciation and better understanding of their people, history, beliefs and values. On top of that, you will get to sample some delicious cuisine, participate in age-old traditions and socialise with the locals.

For example, the UAE is a prosperous centre of commercial activity and as such, has numerous educational opportunities on offer. However, this country on the Persian Gulf manages to strike the right balance between the trappings of modernity and a long-established yet welcoming culture.

Discover New Interests
Apart from your field of study, which you no doubt have an interest in, there are lots of opportunities to discover new pursuits and pastimes in another country too.

The location, climate and conditions of your hometown may not be conducive for certain activities, but while studying abroad, you could turn out to be a superb skier or talented dancer. The nightlife and social scene of a new location may also open up your eyes to different forms of entertainment, such as the theatre or opera.

Make New Friends and Contacts
One of the best things about going to college or university, which many people forget, is making lifelong friends and valuable new contacts. And while this is possible wherever you end up going, your classmates and companions will be even more cherished abroad.

Being away from home can be difficult at the best of times, but friendship and camaraderie will help you realise why the experience is so beneficial. You will meet other women from all walks of life, and develop surprising friendships that bring new depth and colour to your college experience. Furthermore, all these new connections could end up being important career contacts in the future.

Learn a New Language
Even though you probably won’t have to learn a new language to complete your studies abroad, this can be incredibly rewarding and enjoyable all the same. Your college or university will probably offer courses and resources to learn too.

There is no better way to learn a new language than being completely surrounded by it. Regardless of whether you are doing some grocery shopping at the local food market or ordering a drink at the bar with your college friends, knowing the native tongue will definitely come in handy.

From undergraduate programs to bachelor’s degrees, there is a wealth of excellent educational options available abroad. As well as being a great way to help you forge a successful career in the industry of your choice, studying abroad can expand your horizons, instill you with invaluable confidence and enrich your social life in a way that isn’t possible in your native country. So why not give it a try? It just might change your life…

Photo by Monkey Business