The Importance of Getting a Global Experience

By Harrison Kratz on May 11, 2012

Studying abroad has always had the potential to be a life-changing experience. In today’s global economy, time spent abroad is a valuable enhancement for many careers. Employers understand that studying abroad requires self-reliance, independence and a willingness to accept challenges, and will look favorably on job candidates who include international study on their resumes.

Photo by ToastyKen on flickr.com

Immersing yourself in another culture can provide both personal and career benefits that will last a lifetime. Here are some specific reasons for studying abroad:

Widen your perspective

Due to geographic limitations, many Americans have limited exposure to other countries and their traditions. Immersing yourself in another culture is one of the best ways to widen your perspective and expand your worldview. Your view of American’s relationship to the rest of the world may also be altered as you gain a more global perspective.

Experience other cultures

Immersion is the best way to experience other cultures. Besides being exposed to different food, languages, customs and settings, you’ll learn more about the values and beliefs of people outside the United States. You’ll also have the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the history and politics of your host country.

Push your personal limits

Immersion in a foreign country can be both challenging and exciting. You may find yourself pushing your personal limits as you move out of your comfort zone. Chances are, you’ll discover personal strengths and abilities that you may not know you possess. A large part of the knowledge and skills that you’ll gain while studying abroad could never be taught in a classroom.

Make friends around the world

The best study abroad programs allow you to form relationships with students and teachers from the host country as well as your fellow international students. The intensity of the study abroad experience can create deep connections that continue after you return home.

Enhance your degree

In a foreign academic setting, you can improve your skill in a foreign language and take courses that aren’t offered at home. You can visit historic sites that many students only read about. The study abroad experience can also influence your post-graduate career path and open the door to greater opportunities.

Many students become stuck in a rut as they work towards a degree. Studying abroad provides the perfect opportunity to break out of the academic routine and experience education in another culture. There’s no better way to make higher education truly unforgettable.

Harrison Kratz is the community manager for MBA@UNC, one of the nation’s top online MBA programs from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Kenan-Flagler Business School which has a top-20 MBA ranking. Harrison also sticks to his entrepreneurial roots as the founder of the global social good campaign, Tweet Drive.

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