Goodbyes can be hard but going to a new place and transforming into someone new can be astonishing. As a student it’s a difficult choice leaving home the friends and family and almost bidding goodbye to everything that was once a daily spot to you. But leaving home for studies can be one of the most life-changing adventures one can embark on especially in their youthful days. Whether you are studying in Paris and enjoying a coffee or croissant, or learning about the new culture is the busy streets of Tokyo, studying abroad is more than just about academics, its about discovering your true self amidst the chaos.
I still remember a friend of mine who spent a year in Italy; she left shy and unsure of herself and came back speaking fluent Italian, full of stories, and with a confidence that changed her life forever. That’s the magic of studying abroad, it doesn’t just teach you about a new place, it transforms you from within. Here’s how studying abroad can change you as a person:
1. Cultural Immersion and Global Perspective – While studying abroad opens opportunities for better education pathway, one of the obvious changes that come with studying abroad is learning about different cultural aspects. You learn about various rituals and traditions, languages, food and the way of living. An international country has systematic rules and procedures to follow and this makes one be more attentive and vigilant. You learn to respect others culture, immerse yourself and understand a particular region. You get to learn about love and hate, meet different kinds of people, come across communities that are peace loving and welcoming.
Living abroad changes you as a person because it makes you more open-minded and empathetic. You even gain a deeper appreciation for your own culture and traditions. Especially while living alone you practice your customs and rituals in another country without family and friends and while celebrating outside you stay connected to roots and even get opportunity to teach others living their about your country and its traditions, customs and more!
2. Increased Independence and Self-Confidence– 2. Increased Independence and Self-Confidence- While back in your home town you certainly may have heard your parents cribbing about not doing anything or stay dependent on them. Although those days and taunts disappear as soon as you land in another country. All this while having the freedom of not doing house chores must’ve felt good but living in a foreign country focusing on academics, while cooking and cleaning and doing the laundry can be a daunting task. Yet this very aspects changes you as a person as it teaches you to be more independent and teaches you new skills.
You act like the 30 year old adult who makes her own decisions, manages the finances, adapting to new changes and also like a parent who 24*7 is working, cleaning, cooking and doing the dishes. All with no help! Like did your 13 year old self ever imagine doing just at 21! Somedays even a simple cleaning or organizing your house on a weekend can make your day, that’s when you realize this is what adulting is. This is the change that you needed. Staying abroad teaches you a lot especially while figuring everything alone from finance to transportation to overcoming the lonely feeling, yet it makes you strong and builds self-confidence.
3. Enhanced Communication Skills– Language and accent whether understood a not in a particular region as days pass you get find yourself familiarized to it. Especially in a non-English speaking country, a student will likely find themselves learning or improving In that particular regions language be it Spanish, French, Arabic etc. This not only helps with your communication skills but also gives you other valuable skills that help not only in academic purpose but also job purpose in the world. Even if the language barrier isn’t significant, simply interacting with people from different cultures sharpens your ability to express yourself clearly and listen more attentively.
4. Broader Career Opportunities– As we know change is necessary in all fields of life and especially when it comes to career opportunities students are taught to work basic jobs while studying abroad in a store or a community centre or even food courts. This may seem like a small wage job but it offers the skills you need like patience, understanding, handwork to earn even those minimum wages. It teaches you to be financially independent. Also, when it comes to one’s field of interest it is a great opportunity to experience the global mindset and how corporate world works abroad. You meet fun loving coworkers and develop skills beyond your basic job skills such as problem-solving, communication and learn to understand one another’s culture and way of living. Additionally, you may gain valuable international connections that could help advance your career.
5. Building Lifelong Friendships and Networks– Studying abroad allows you to meet people from all over the world. Friendships formed during your time abroad can last a lifetime, creating a global network of peers. You may even form professional connections that can help you in your career. These friendships and networks also expose you to different ways of thinking and living, enriching your personal and professional life.
6. Personal Reflection and Growth– Being far away from home often encourages deep self-reflection. Without the distractions of your usual environment, you may find yourself considering your values, goals, and the person you want to become. This time of introspection, coupled with the challenges and new experiences abroad, can lead to significant personal growth. Many students who return from studying abroad report feeling more mature, grounded, and confident in their choices.
7. Adaptability and Resilience– Studying abroad requires you to adapt to new situations constantly. From adjusting to different teaching methods and academic systems to coping with homesickness or even language barriers, the experience teaches resilience. You learn how to face uncertainty and navigate unexpected challenges with a positive attitude. This adaptability is a life skill that can benefit you in all areas of your life, both personally and professionally.
8. A New Approach to Problem-Solving– Living in a different country means that you’ll face a variety of situations that require creative problem-solving. Whether it’s figuring out how to fix a transportation mix-up, managing a budgeting issue, or adapting to different academic expectations, studying abroad forces you to think on your feet. These experiences help you develop critical thinking skills, flexibility, and a more proactive approach to problem-solving.
9. New Academic Opportunities and Perspectives– Studying abroad often means exposure to different educational systems and methodologies. This can expand your academic horizons and give you a new perspective on your field of study. Many students find that studying in a different country gives them access to unique courses, research opportunities, or even faculty expertise that isn’t available at their home university. Additionally, the chance to learn from international students and professors enhances your understanding of global issues within your field.
10. A Broader View of the World– The most significant change that studying abroad can bring is a shift in the way you view the world. You move beyond the limitations of your hometown or country, recognizing the interconnectedness of people, ideas, and cultures. This broader view can shift your priorities, inspire you to travel more, pursue international opportunities, or even commit to addressing global challenges.
Studying abroad is not just about earning a degree, it’s a life-changing experience that molds you into a more informed, adaptable, and confident individual. Whether it’s overcoming challenges, expanding your worldview, or building lifelong relationships, the impact studying abroad has on your personal growth is immeasurable. If you ever get the chance to study abroad, embrace it. At the end of the day, it’s an experience that can shape you in ways you never expected.
