Should You Study Abroad? Weighing the Pros and Cons 🌍
So, you are playing with the idea of potentially studying abroad? Are already you picturing yourself eating a croissant at a Parisian café or maybe even dreaming about hiking through the beautiful natural landscapes of New Zealand after attending your lectures? It’s not just about taking off items from your destination bucket list, but studying abroad can be a life changing experience that shapes your future in more ways than just one. However just like any big decision in your life, there are some pros and some cons to think about… Let’s see if going overseas for study will be the right move for you!
The Pros of Studying Abroad 🤩🌟
1. Global Perspective
When you think about studying abroad, it inevitably opens your mind to different cultures, beliefs, ideas, and many ways of thinking. You would be able gain a first-hand experience of how things like education, economics and even social interactions differ across this vast globe. This widened perspective does not just enrich your understanding of people, but it can also make you a much more adaptable and open-minded person if you allow yourself. Those are great qualities that a lot of employers are looking for in staff.
2. Language Skills on Fleek
Completely immersing your self in a foreign country is a way to aid in leaning a new language. Whether you’re attempting to master Mandarin in China, or brushing up on your Spanish in Spain, or living your best “Emily in Paris” moment. These daily interactions when you are in a country where they don’t speak your native language can help boost your language skills, fluency and confidence when interacting with people from all walks of life.
3. Networking Like a Pro
When you become a student of international waters, you will be able to build up a valuable network of friends, mentors, and even individuals from different professional backgrounds all over the world. Building these connections can open so many doors for your whether you are applying for local or international job opportunities, it can even give you a foot in the drawer for collaborative projects, and even strong bonds with your newfound friends. Additionally, having a international network can not only give you an advantage but a very unique edge in today’s globalised job market.
4. Personal Growth and Independence
I know we all love staying in our warm protection bubble called the comfort zone, but opening your self up try experience new in a foreign country can help to push you out of the comfort zone. Small challenges like navigating public transportation or managing a new currency can help you build resilience and independence, so by the time you return back to your home, you are more likely to feel self sufficient and ready to tackle whatever obstacle life tries to throw at you.
5. The Ultimate Adventure
We can not forget about all the fun things about studying abroad… Just picture yourself spending weekends exploring new cities, tasting delicious foods, taking snap shots at landmarks of the memories you are creating either by yourself or with people you meet all around the world, this is the stuff of dreams wouldn’t you say? The amount of experience you will gain outside of the classroom are just as valuable as the academic experiences.
The Cons of Studying Abroad 😬🌧️
1. Homesickness Can Get Real
It is completely normal for you to miss your home, especially during special days like your birthday, or during holiday periods, and sometimes the excitement of being in a new place can be overshadowed by missing familiar faces, foods and maybe even your bedroom. However, as time goes on, and with the help of the right coping mechanisms, you will overcome the homesickness in no time.
2. Financial Strain
It can be quite costly to study abroad, between covering your schooling fees, travelling cost, and the overall cost of living, the financial burden can be a heavy weight to bare. But there is some good news, you can apply for available scholarships and financial aid, which can help you lighten your financial strain, just keep in mind that they may not be able to cover everything. So, it is important to budget wisely and consider all the costs before making your decision.
3. Academic Differences
Most if not all education systems can vary greatly from country to country. You will most likely find that the teaching style, grading system, or academic expectations can be different than what you are accustomed to. This can be a challenging adjustment period for you. But it could also be an opportunity to develop new study habits and academic skills, and it can help you get out of your shell a bit.
4. Cultural Adjustment
The culture shock can be real, and it can be very tough. Learning to adapt to a new culture, and their different norms, food and even the weather can be quite overwhelming at first. However, with time, most students find that they not only adjust but also learn how to appreciate the different cultural differences that once seemed daunting.
5. Loneliness
Making new friends in a foreign country can be quite difficult, especially if there’s a language barrier and you don’t really know anyone. Loneliness is something many international students face, but joining clubs, attending events, and reaching out to fellow students can help you build a new social circle.
Is Studying Abroad the Right Fit for You?
Studying while living abroad is quite the unique experience that offers both wonderful opportunities and some challenges. It’s a chance to learn about the world, yourself and your field of study from a whole new perspective. It may not be for everyone. If you are ready for an adventure, eager to learn and up for the challenge, studying abroad could be one of the best decisions you can ever make.
So, what do you think? Are the pros worth the cons? Or does staying closer to home feel like the better option for your academic journey? We’d love to hear your thoughts!
Would you choose to study abroad, and if so, where would your dream destination be? Let us know in the comments below!