If you’re a student, going to university and college may well be the first time you’ve moved away from home. It’s a time to learn more about yourselves, discovering independence and an opportunity to learn life skills away from the security of family and friend’s that you’ve grown up with. After a couple of years though, this journey of self discovery may not be enough adventure for some of you and you may take up your college’s offer of an opportunity to study abroad. Some of the bravest among (or frugal – you can save several thousand dollars this way) you may choose to trip overseas for 3 or 4 years to earn your degree. 

This kind of adventure offers an even wider scope of opportunity for life enhancing experiences and chances to learn new skills. Here’s a selection of great reasons to study abroad.

Learn A New Language

Statistically, there’s not that many countries in the world that have English as their first language, and many of the non-English speaking countries, particularly in Europe, offer college assignments help and also offer courses taught in English. Studying here gives you an opportunity to learn in your native language, but live in a culture where you get every chance to practise a second language when buying groceries or hanging out with new local friends. 

Learn to Budget Your Finances 

Moving overseas and spending money in a new currency requires a high degree of management over your finances. Being a long away from your family and their immediate support means that you’ll have to learn how to learn how to manage your expenses and pay the bills.

Improve Your Employment Prospects 

Employers are impressed by prospective employees who are willing to go beyond their comfort zones to improve themselves and learn new skills. They recognize that these experiences improve language skills and the ability to communicate across cultures. For those with careers in international relations and diplomacy in mind, these kind of experiences are essential as you develop as a student. 

Networking 

As well as making a ton of new friends, studying overseas is an opportunity to explore potential future professional opportunities as well. Often courses loads are a little lighter whilst studying overseas, so it can be a great opportunity to take the time to volunteer or intern in fields that interest you whilst your studying. 

Discover a New Activity 

Often studying abroad also takes place in an environment that’s unusual to home. If you’re by the ocean, why not try scuba diving? Or maybe you’re studying in a mountainous area, close to opportunities for zip-lining, hiking and snowboarding. If the country you choose has a passion for a sport you’re not exposed to back home, pick a favourite team and join in the local support, or even have a go yourself! 

Although it might be scary, be assured that many people have walked the path before you and that there are lots and lots of great reasons for enlarging your experience and choosing to study abroad.