Why You Should Consider a Study Abroad Experiences

Kali, a sophomore business major who loves to travel, is interested in doing a semester abroad. She’s done a couple of mission trips with her church, one to Mexico and the other to the urban center of Chicago, but she’s never explored beyond North America. She is interested in economics and finance as her future career. Should she consider a semester away from the familiar? What are the benefits? Are there downsides? And finally, how can she discover the right opportunity for her?  

She’s got questions and we’ve got answers! A semester abroad is enriching and exciting. You will grow academically, personally and culturally. Immersing yourself in a new environment broadens your perspective, but it also gives you an opportunity to gain practical skills that can shape your future.  

One of the most significant benefits of studying abroad is your exposure to a new culture. Living in a foreign country, even for a semester, will expose you to new traditions, languages and ways of life. This fosters a global mindset, so important in our interconnected world. It will also help you adapt to new situations and have empathy for others. And, you’ll learn new communication skills (even if you go to a country where they speak your home language). These experiences will leave an indelible impact.  

You’ll also likely be exposed to unique courses, new facilities and educators who will stretch your brain in new ways. Kali might choose to study in Asia. She’ll learn about international business and global economic systems. Someone interested in history might study in Italy, Greece or England—all areas where early civilizations flourished.  

You will also grow personally, in ways you can hardly imagine. You’ll navigate a new city, adapt to different cultural norms and be pushed out of your comfort zone with the new social connections you will form. You may be homesick for a bit, but eventually you’ll feel accomplished, gain more independence and become resilient. You’ll even learn to solve problems in a new way. The first time you master London’s vast Tube or Singapore’s tram system will instill confidence that you will carry with you the rest of your life.  

From a career perspective, studying abroad can open doors to global opportunities. Employers value candidates with international experience because it signals adaptability, cultural awareness and the ability to thrive in diverse environments. You can also network with peers, professors and professionals during your time abroad, potentially leading to future opportunities.  

Maybe best of all, studying abroad will create unforgettable memories and friendships. You’ll explore new landscapes, sample new foods and experience new cultural traditions. These will become cherished experiences and those you meet may well lead to lifelong relationships. 

Is there a downside to studying abroad? Not really. No matter your intended career aspiration, unlocking the world through a semester away will change you in ways you can’t expect. You just might discover something about yourself that you couldn’t have learned any other way.  

There are many opportunities just waiting for you. To find out more about studying abroad through NNU, visit our study abroad page. There are also many programs and organizations to explore. Just a few include: 

• StudyAbroad.com: A comprehensive resource for finding programs worldwide. 

• International Studies Abroad (ISA): Offers various programs in different countries tailored to diverse academic interests. 

• Fulbright Programs: Provides scholarships for students interested in studying or conducting research abroad. 

• CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange): Offers programs designed for students seeking both academic and cultural experiences. 

Studying abroad is much more than an academic endeavor—it is a journey of self-discovery, growth and preparation for your future.  

By stepping into the unknown, you can unlock countless opportunities that enrich you and leave you better equipped to make a difference in the world. Kali ended up in Tokyo. Where will you go?