If the opportunity arises, whether you are a student or already in the working world, if you can study or train abroad then definitely go for it! You might initially feel discouraged at the thought of it – leaving your loved ones and the necessities you have become accustomed to over an extend period of time but carefully consider what you can gain from the experience. Think about the exciting possibilities of embracing a different culture and seeing new places. Likewise, evaluate the value it can either add to your current or future development and employability. We joined forces with TeachingAbroadDirect.co.uk to give you six reasons why you should take on new learning experiences abroad and how this can benefit your personal growth:
1) Embracing New Cultures
Getting away from a familiar environment and jumping into an unknown one will provide you with a different perspective on life. You will find yourself immersed in new traditions, customs, foods, local people and general ways of living. All vital components which will provide you with the appreciation to acknowledge and analyse cultural differences when dealing with international matters/clients in the workplace.
2) Gaining International Friends
When you go abroad you will undoubtedly meet many new people. It is more than likely some of them will become your close friends. Similarly, some may even be valuable connections which help you gain a deeper insight into your respective sector from a global point of view. Your international connections will show potential employers your ability to step outside any comfort zone to create cross-cultural relationships.
3) New Learning Approaches
Whether you are in another country studying or on a training course from work, you will soon realise they will have a different way of doing things. This does not mean everything will be unfamiliar, there will be recognisable aspects but it will be an interesting eye opener. For instance, educational institutions may have a more interactive and collaborative style for delivering learning materials. Equally, training sessions could analyse components which are not traditionally explored for certain specialist/expertise areas. Overall, new learning opportunities should impact your working practises and habits for the better.
4) Exercising Language Competency
Studying or training in another country and spending time with locals may inspire you to learn a new language. With globalisation interconnecting businesses now more than ever before, employers are wanting candidates that are linguistic enough to communicate in the local language of the markets they have a presence in. Taking the time and effort to acquire the verbal and non-verbal communication of a foreign language will only boost your credentials and employability.
5) Opportunity for Reflection
Your home country is the only place you envisioned yourself working in. Travelling to another country though may change this mindset. As you embrace the culture and engage in different learning opportunities, you may come to the realisation that working in another country could be a viable future ambition. In doing so, framing the medium to long term to plan how you will achieve it. This would entail researching the job prospects, career progression and quality of life in any desired destinations.
6) Risks for Rewards
You might not comprehend the significance of going abroad to study or work but doing so exhibits a lot of positive traits such as a willingness to take risks and seek new possibilities. From an employer’s view point, it beneficially shows them you’re a flexible individual who can adapt to different situations and handle potential job placements/assignments. Moreover, an international venture could help you discover skills which you thought you were never really good at like relationship management, adaptability and problem solving. It might also ignite a new sense of urgency with regards to your approach towards studying or working.
