A lot of students, mostly secondary school graduates and undergraduates want to study abroad most especially in developed countries that have universities or colleges with a strong international reputation and are respected worldwide. Most people who have studied abroad say it is their greatest educational experience as it is a good way gaining much more than when they studied in their home country. It is a combination of gaining a high-quality education, experiencing immersion in a new culture, gaining a global mindset and expanding future employment prospects. If this is really what you have decided you would love to embark on, then you are surely on the right path. Here are a few reasons why you should not miss out on this opportunity.

For personal growth and development. Learning is a way to cultivate your personal growth and educational attainment can help you. It improves analytical thinking, develops critical thoughts and improves your chances at furthering your career. Personal growth is about understanding yourself and helps you figure out what your strengths and weaknesses are and in most cases, you need to move out of your comfort zone to be able to realise that. You will become very independent which is not as easy as we think especially for the very young ones who rely mostly on others for their well being and then begin to take responsibilty for themselves which spurs your development as an individual.

It will surely look good on your resume (CV) and that is a very good way to get a decent job by enhancing your employment opportunities.

It gives you the opportunity to build an international network, be it social or professional. You get this by building relationships with your classmates and lecturers which sometimes doesn't end in classrooms, it extends further than the duration of your program. And sometimes might lead to cases that will add inestimable value to your career life internationally.

You will learn how to overcome language barriers (for those who go to countries that the major language is not the same as where they come from). You will also develop cross-cultural communication skills, problem-solving skills. And the ability to be more flexible, patient and able to manage change are skills that you gain when you find yourself in a totally different environment than what you are used to.

You will also have the opportunity to gain first-hand experience in an international organization as a result of internships, co-op programs, apprenticeship and other forms of practical experiences in an organization which is in most universities are part of the curriculum or an option you can decide to choose from.

It can teach you to appreciate differences and diversities about the general perception you have about people from different cultural background.

You might say, you dont need some of the experiences mentioned but the truth is as long as we continue to interact with people, there are some skills or techniques that you would have developed that will be applicable in some situations you will find yourself in, be it your work place, at home or various social gatherings. No knowledge gained or experience is a waste.

In as much as it is a good opportunity, please dont go into large debts thinking you will make all the money in the world after you are done studying and then pay back afterwards except you are in a situation whereby you can pay installmentally in the next 20 - 35 years. Just kidding though. It might work out for you within a short period of time or vice versa, you never know. Its always advisable you don’t get into such problems afterwards and be on the safe side.

There are lots of opportunities for students who wish to study abroad like; foreign institutions offering scholarships either fully or partially, some institutions have a flat rate tuition that is to say both local and foreign students pay the same tuition and that can be less expensive in most universities cos the locals usually pay a lesser fee than the international students, some offer student jobs and in some countries, you are allowed to work part time outside school and such income can cover a whole lot during your studies. There are so many opportunities you can get to ease the financial stress, you just have to do a lot of research when you have made your decision and you think you don’t have enough money to cover your expenses, cos the truth is, generally, it is not cheap.
The most important thing is the experience you get which is invaluable and priceless. There is a lot to learn from this journey if you do not see it as a just a vacation…

Share your experiences in the comment below if you are currently studying abroad or have studied abroad that will help students who wants to study abroad,,,


Source: www.esther.com.ng