Studying abroad is not only a way to enhance personal knowledge but also an opportunity to explore new horizons, practice independence, and connect with friends from around the world. Join Pacific Cross as we delve into the 9 reasons and benefits of studying abroad in the following article.
1. Studying Abroad is the Best Way to Cultivate Independence
One of the reasons parents encourage their children to study abroad is to help them learn to live independently. Being away from home, they have to take care of everything from meals and daily activities to studying. Many parents worry about their children being too reliant and not maturing, often because they are overly protected at home. When children are constantly shielded, they may struggle to gain confidence on their own.
Soon after your child begins their study abroad journey, you will notice significant changes: they become more mature, composed, and decisive in their decision-making.
2. Studying Abroad Increases Job Opportunities
The top reason to study abroad today is the increasing globalization of the world, with companies placing greater emphasis on expanding into international markets. Thus, domestic employers highly value students who have studied abroad.
In their eyes, a study abroad student is independent, willing to accept challenges, and capable of handling different situations. The experience of living and studying abroad sets you apart from most domestic applicants.
And if you want to find a job in the country where you studied, most schools have specific job placement policies for graduates. If you stay in that country and find a suitable job, you can work while continuing your studies to potentially increase your salary later.
3. Studying Abroad Gives Your Child the Chance to Learn New Languages
Developing language skills is another compelling reason to study abroad. There’s no better way to learn a language than by communicating with native speakers daily. In a Western learning environment, your child will study with students from various countries. Besides making new friends, they will regularly interact with those around them, picking up the languages of their peers.
4. International Study Programs Offer Invaluable Life Experiences
Many students still don’t understand why they should study abroad. Studying abroad means encountering new people, adapting to new living and learning environments, and absorbing a new culture. It’s an opportunity for your child to change their life, acquire invaluable knowledge and life experiences, and discover their own strengths and abilities.
Moreover, studying abroad often includes “Student Exchange” and “Internship Abroad” programs, providing students with the chance to study and live in other countries without additional fees. Alongside making many new friends, your child will face challenges requiring them to apply their skills to overcome. Each challenge offers countless experiences that can’t be purchased from books.
5. International Students Have an Expanded Worldview
Many young people are unclear about the purpose of studying abroad. If you only live and study in one country, you’ll have a limited perspective on the world around you. No matter how advanced the internet is, it only brings the world closer to you without allowing you to experience it fully. When studying abroad, your child will have to adapt to the culture and lifestyle of the countries they visit, gradually developing a broader worldview.
6. Studying Abroad Enhances Creativity
Another excellent reason to study abroad is the dynamic, flexible, and creativity-promoting education methods in foreign countries. There, the traditional “teacher speaks, students listen” approach is replaced with an environment where students are encouraged to express their opinions and even challenge instructors. Additionally, leading economic and educational powers encourage teamwork. Studying in such an environment will help your child develop communication, interpersonal, and team-building skills, while easily showcasing leadership qualities if they have them.
7. Studying Abroad is a Wonderful Opportunity to Fulfill Travel Dreams
One of the benefits of studying abroad is the chance for your child to explore the culture and people of a new country. What could be more exciting than grabbing a backpack and exploring nearby regions with friends during semester breaks or summer vacations?
While you might only be able to choose one or two travel destinations per year, your child, being closer to various destinations, can travel whenever they have free time. For those who want their children to gain knowledge from travels, this reason can strongly persuade them to let their children study abroad.
There are many reasons to believe that sending your child to study abroad is one of the best ways to open the door to their future. However, it doesn’t mean that only by studying abroad can a child’s future develop. Domestic educational programs are also constantly improving. The important thing is whether your child has the ability to explore, be creative, and strive to succeed. Trust that as long as they have determination, independence, and a passion for learning, whether they study abroad or not won’t be a major issue.
8. Studying Abroad Helps You Escape Outdated Study Habits
Choosing to study abroad allows you to familiarize yourself with a new academic system and study methods. Here, you will have a completely different perspective from what you are accustomed to in your home country. Although you may face difficulties in adapting initially, this challenge will help you refine yourself better.
9. Discover New Hobbies
Studying in another country provides numerous activities for you to explore. If you haven’t had the opportunity or motivation to try new fields in Vietnam, this is your chance. In foreign cultures, besides academic pursuits, you can participate in extracurricular clubs like drama, filmmaking, dancing, concerts, and outdoor camping. This is the time for you to immerse yourself in new experiences and discover new interests.
(References: northeastern.edu)
