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How did studying abroad shape your career?
I am currently a student at UW. I am interested in studying abroad (specifically Tsinghua University) during my junior year. Out of curiosity, what are your favorite aspects of studying abroad? How did it shape you and your career? Which part of the experience stood out to you?
#study-abroad #travel #college #exchange #economics # applied math
Much thanks!
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19 answers
Updated
Alyssa’s Answer
Hi Hailin!
I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain for 8 weeks at the end of spring a few years ago for one of my bachelors degrees. I think my favorite aspects from studying abroad were the people that I met in classes & at events that I attended who were from around the world, the history/culture of another country that you get to experience daily & how the challenges that I faced while there which made me a stronger individual overall. I was able to find people that could help me to make the best of each situation (I didn't have a compatible SIM card for the phone companies in the country making travel & information difficult since WIFI was often spotty!) and my skills as a Spanish major were tested constantly which only improved my grasp of the language. The lack of students/people that I knew in the city was very different from my previous experiences in college where I had known almost everyone in my major & made me become open to meeting new people as well as getting out of my comfort zone.
The biggest takeaway that I had from my time abroad was the confidence I had in facing difficult situations since I had faced so many in a short time while in Europe. I was more fearless in taking risks which led me to apply for hundreds of jobs towards the end of college even if I didn't think that I was fully qualified for the position. This confidence & fearlessness led to interviews & job offers which I would have never have thought to apply for if I didn't believe that I could handle the unknown. I grew a lot as an individual over that summer which has had lasting impacts on my professional and personal life.
The amount of friends that I have stayed in contact with through WhatsApp & Facebook has also been incredible! It is truly amazing how one trip can expand your horizons and your network of great connections!
Research the study abroad program
Speak with someone who has either studied there previously or is from the program that can tell you more about it
I studied abroad in Madrid, Spain for 8 weeks at the end of spring a few years ago for one of my bachelors degrees. I think my favorite aspects from studying abroad were the people that I met in classes & at events that I attended who were from around the world, the history/culture of another country that you get to experience daily & how the challenges that I faced while there which made me a stronger individual overall. I was able to find people that could help me to make the best of each situation (I didn't have a compatible SIM card for the phone companies in the country making travel & information difficult since WIFI was often spotty!) and my skills as a Spanish major were tested constantly which only improved my grasp of the language. The lack of students/people that I knew in the city was very different from my previous experiences in college where I had known almost everyone in my major & made me become open to meeting new people as well as getting out of my comfort zone.
The biggest takeaway that I had from my time abroad was the confidence I had in facing difficult situations since I had faced so many in a short time while in Europe. I was more fearless in taking risks which led me to apply for hundreds of jobs towards the end of college even if I didn't think that I was fully qualified for the position. This confidence & fearlessness led to interviews & job offers which I would have never have thought to apply for if I didn't believe that I could handle the unknown. I grew a lot as an individual over that summer which has had lasting impacts on my professional and personal life.
The amount of friends that I have stayed in contact with through WhatsApp & Facebook has also been incredible! It is truly amazing how one trip can expand your horizons and your network of great connections!
Alyssa recommends the following next steps:
Thank you, really appreciate your advice. I will research more about the abroad programs and contact someone who participated in the program.
Hailin
Updated
Roselle’s Answer
During my bachelor I've been studying abroad for six months. I saw solutions to problems I never (had to) think about, mindsets and approaches that were new for me, and most of all - I got out of my comfort zone. Living in a comfort zone in some moments of your life is great and even necessary, but as a student with your whole life ahead of you that you can shape however you want it, being out of your comfort zone forces you to get to know yourself better (no one knows your family, friends, ... in your home country, so you can be 100% yourself) and you learn what you think is important in life, which I think should be the basis of any career choice.
For me, my experience abroad helped me in choosing where to live (currently living/working abroad), my field, my career and also in my job it helps to approach challenges from different angles and create solutions.
Aside this, living abroad makes you really understand and live a different culture, which is very different from holidays. I met people from all over the world with who I am still in contact (6 years later), had a lot of fun and studied subjects that in my home country were not available.
For me, my experience abroad helped me in choosing where to live (currently living/working abroad), my field, my career and also in my job it helps to approach challenges from different angles and create solutions.
Aside this, living abroad makes you really understand and live a different culture, which is very different from holidays. I met people from all over the world with who I am still in contact (6 years later), had a lot of fun and studied subjects that in my home country were not available.
Thank you! I am more excited about studying abroad!
Hailin
Updated
Nella’s Answer
Hi Hailin!!
My name is Nella and I'm Venezuelan. I have been living abroad for 6 years now; first as a student and now working for a pharmaceutical company.
I was part of an International master's program, so my first 2 years I was moving across different European countries. And I keep saying those were the best 2 years of my life (so far).
Beyond my academic life, studying abroad made me grow as a person. It pushed me to be more flexible by having to adapt to different cultures, manners and even food! It also makes you more open minded. It helps you realise that many things can be different to what you are used and are not necessarily better or worse, just different. Flexibility makes you tougher and more adaptable to changes (some of them are inevitable). It welcomes you to get out of your comfort zone which not always is the most comfortable place to be.
And all this without counting the personal fulfilment you will make. The new friends you will make and the new habits you will unconsciously get :)
At the moment I work as a project manager, with customer from all around the world. Having the chance to live abroad has definitely help me to interact with them in a successful and respectful way.
I'd say you could start by joining Facebook groups from the University. Also look Expats in the city you will be living and start conecting with people. They would be able to advice you on what to do, where to live and so on.
If you need further advice please let me know! :)
My name is Nella and I'm Venezuelan. I have been living abroad for 6 years now; first as a student and now working for a pharmaceutical company.
I was part of an International master's program, so my first 2 years I was moving across different European countries. And I keep saying those were the best 2 years of my life (so far).
Beyond my academic life, studying abroad made me grow as a person. It pushed me to be more flexible by having to adapt to different cultures, manners and even food! It also makes you more open minded. It helps you realise that many things can be different to what you are used and are not necessarily better or worse, just different. Flexibility makes you tougher and more adaptable to changes (some of them are inevitable). It welcomes you to get out of your comfort zone which not always is the most comfortable place to be.
And all this without counting the personal fulfilment you will make. The new friends you will make and the new habits you will unconsciously get :)
At the moment I work as a project manager, with customer from all around the world. Having the chance to live abroad has definitely help me to interact with them in a successful and respectful way.
I'd say you could start by joining Facebook groups from the University. Also look Expats in the city you will be living and start conecting with people. They would be able to advice you on what to do, where to live and so on.
If you need further advice please let me know! :)
Thank you so much for your advice!
Hailin
Updated
Mary’s Answer
I spent a year in France for my Junior year of college, and it was life-changing. Certainly, my French language skills dramatically improved, but by far the value of that year was learning how to think completely differently about my assumptions and world-view. There is nothing like stepping far out of your comfort zone for strengthening your ability to be self-reliant, to think in new ways, and to problem-solve. I have absolutely used those sharpened skills in my professional career, and highly recommend any opportunity you can find to see the world through the eyes of another culture.
Thanks for sharing!
Hailin
Updated
Callie’s Answer
Hailin,
Studying abroad is one of the best decisions I made for my education.
To enhance your experience consider doing the following:
- Attend a program on your own, without close friends from your home university. By doing this you will be forced out of your comfort zone, make new friends, and will form a new sense of independence.
- Consider applying to an internship program (combined with courses) to experience "real life" as a working adult in the county where you are studying.
- Studying aboard, in Asia and Europe especially, serves as an excellent "jumping off point" for additional travel. Take advantage of those opportunities! That said, also stay put - make local friends, really get to know the city you are living in and the cultural you surrounded by.
Best of luck!
Callie
Studying abroad is one of the best decisions I made for my education.
To enhance your experience consider doing the following:
- Attend a program on your own, without close friends from your home university. By doing this you will be forced out of your comfort zone, make new friends, and will form a new sense of independence.
- Consider applying to an internship program (combined with courses) to experience "real life" as a working adult in the county where you are studying.
- Studying aboard, in Asia and Europe especially, serves as an excellent "jumping off point" for additional travel. Take advantage of those opportunities! That said, also stay put - make local friends, really get to know the city you are living in and the cultural you surrounded by.
Best of luck!
Callie
Awesome, thank you for tips! I will definitely search for internship opportunities abroad!
Hailin
Updated
Maria del Pilar’s Answer
I am from Peru and after studying and living at home my whole life I decided to go to the US to study abroad! I went to business school for 2 years in Durham, NC and the decision changed my life!
My favorite aspects of studying abroad were:
- Meeting people from all over the world with different backgrounds, careers, and life stories! Studying abroad will definitely open your eyes to different cultures and meeting people that you wouldn't have met otherwise. Learning from the different paths of life of people that you never thought of meeting will be incredible rich in experience!
- Getting to know yourself better. When you are in a new country and you don't know anybody or pretty much anything around, you'll find out more about yourself, your personality, your likes/dislikes. It's an experience that will push you out of your comfort zone.
- Have fun. Those 2 years studying abroad were so much fun because everybody is in the same boat as you, trying to study but also looking to meet people and have fun! Enjoy the experience and use this time to try new things, pick up a new hobby, and have fun!
My favorite aspects of studying abroad were:
- Meeting people from all over the world with different backgrounds, careers, and life stories! Studying abroad will definitely open your eyes to different cultures and meeting people that you wouldn't have met otherwise. Learning from the different paths of life of people that you never thought of meeting will be incredible rich in experience!
- Getting to know yourself better. When you are in a new country and you don't know anybody or pretty much anything around, you'll find out more about yourself, your personality, your likes/dislikes. It's an experience that will push you out of your comfort zone.
- Have fun. Those 2 years studying abroad were so much fun because everybody is in the same boat as you, trying to study but also looking to meet people and have fun! Enjoy the experience and use this time to try new things, pick up a new hobby, and have fun!
This is great! Thanks for sharing
Hailin
Updated
Vic’s Answer
I studied abroad for a semester in Florence, Italy. In terms of impact to my career, I have found that:
1. Helps in small talk - travelling seems to be a popular hobby
2. Helps in getting staffed in other international projects / w/ a more global flair to it
1. Helps in small talk - travelling seems to be a popular hobby
2. Helps in getting staffed in other international projects / w/ a more global flair to it
Updated
Jackie’s Answer
Hi Hailin!
I absolutely loved study abroad and would highly recommend it, especially if you are interested in experiencing other cultures. I am someone who enjoyed the experience of being out of my comfort zone, exploring new places and meeting new people.
As part of my study abroad program, I interned at a company in London in a field and industry I was interested in. My internship allowed me to fully immerse myself in the culture. I was able to identify things that were similar and things that were different from workplace culture in the United States, which allowed me to understand what I did and did not like in a work environment. If career development is important during your study abroad experience and this is of interest to you - I would look into programs that have this component.
I absolutely loved study abroad and would highly recommend it, especially if you are interested in experiencing other cultures. I am someone who enjoyed the experience of being out of my comfort zone, exploring new places and meeting new people.
As part of my study abroad program, I interned at a company in London in a field and industry I was interested in. My internship allowed me to fully immerse myself in the culture. I was able to identify things that were similar and things that were different from workplace culture in the United States, which allowed me to understand what I did and did not like in a work environment. If career development is important during your study abroad experience and this is of interest to you - I would look into programs that have this component.
Thanks for your answer. Interning in a different country is definitely on my list!
Hailin
Updated
Allison’s Answer
Hi Hailin,
Great question!
I studied abroad for two and a half weeks during my junior year. I went on a European Business Travel Seminar that traveled to five countries (Germany, France, Switzerland, Netherlands, and Luxembourg).
My favorite part about studying abroad was all of the new friendships I made and the sights I got to see. I had never been out of the country prior and it was incredible to see different cultures and landmark sights. The thing that stood out to me was taking a leap out of my comfort zone and realizing that I was capable of whatever I put my mind to. I now have a new confidence in traveling and my international business communication techniques. I intend to take all of the travel opportunities I am allowed when I begin my full time career next year!
Good luck!
Alli Raddant
Great question!
I studied abroad for two and a half weeks during my junior year. I went on a European Business Travel Seminar that traveled to five countries (Germany, France, Switzerland, Netherlands, and Luxembourg).
My favorite part about studying abroad was all of the new friendships I made and the sights I got to see. I had never been out of the country prior and it was incredible to see different cultures and landmark sights. The thing that stood out to me was taking a leap out of my comfort zone and realizing that I was capable of whatever I put my mind to. I now have a new confidence in traveling and my international business communication techniques. I intend to take all of the travel opportunities I am allowed when I begin my full time career next year!
Good luck!
Alli Raddant
Updated
Michael’s Answer
I attended a university that one of the requirements is to either study abroad for a semester or several weeks. I chose to study abroad for a semester. I actually studied in Vienna Austria. This was one of the best experiences of my life. This really opened my eyes to the rest of the world. It allowed me to really understand how other cultures live. I one never lived in a City that large. At the time over 10 million people in a small area. Not speaking German was another hurdle that I had to overcome. What this allowed me to understand is that I could adapt and learn how to communicate in a place that I was not familiar with at all. I knew that if I could do this then I could do just about anything that I put my heart into. During my time abroad we traveled to surrounding countries and cities and we were able to see many different aspects of life and living. This was an experience that I knew would change the rest of my life. Hope that this helps!
It was great to hear about your experience. Thank you!
Hailin
Updated
Schuyler’s Answer
I actually just studied abroad this past fall! So while it hasn't shaped my professional career, it has changed my academic career and fortified my idea of what I want to do post-grad. I did a full-immersion program in France. It helped so much with learning the language on a new level. I want to teach French after college so getting to live in France and interact with French people everyday was an incredible learning opportunity for me. That being said, it was also hard to make friends and it was easy to feel lonely. Culture shock is not just in food and language--it's a whole different way of life. Remember how important the social aspect is but be prepared for all of the incredible things that abroad has to offer! Travel, take pictures, eat incredible food, and have fun!
Thanks for sharing!
Hailin
Updated
Ramona’s Answer
Great question! I studied abroad and had an internship abroad during college. It provided me a much broader understanding of different cultures, adapt to a different life style and mature as a person. In addition, my language skills improved dramatically, by being immersed in it on a daily basis. Many years later, I still meet up with some people I met on my study abroad adventure and maintain those friendships. It also helped me realize how much it helped me to grow as a person, by being on my own and removed from my regular influencers. I hope you have the opportunity to study abroad. Best of luck to you.
Thank you for sharing!
Hailin
Updated
Sunitha’s Answer
One of the most valued career benefits of studying abroad that you will develop is the ability to communicate across multiple language barriers. ... You will also improve other aspects of your communication skills, including presenting and public speaking, negotiating, academic writing and non-verbal communication.
1. Improve your language skills.
2. Experience a different style of teaching.
3. Impress employers.
4. Enhance your network.
5. Learn about new cultures and perspectives.
6. Develop your confidence.
7. See the world.
8. Discover career opportunities abroad.
1. Improve your language skills.
2. Experience a different style of teaching.
3. Impress employers.
4. Enhance your network.
5. Learn about new cultures and perspectives.
6. Develop your confidence.
7. See the world.
8. Discover career opportunities abroad.
Thanks for sharing!
Hailin
Updated
Celia’s Answer
Hi Hailin,
This is such an interesting question! Studying abroad allowed me to explore completely different cultures and perspectives of the world. After one semester abroad, I permanently moved abroad to a third country and started my career from scratch there as a young graduate and no regret! Studying abroad was the best experience of my life because it shaped a big part of my personality and I gained a lot of confidence realising I could start over and build everything again whenever I decided to do it.
I wrote an article about how my exchange studies changed my entire career plan, feel free to check it out: https://www.myacpa.org/entity/commission-global-dimensions-student-development/blog/how-my-exchange-studies-changed-my
This is such an interesting question! Studying abroad allowed me to explore completely different cultures and perspectives of the world. After one semester abroad, I permanently moved abroad to a third country and started my career from scratch there as a young graduate and no regret! Studying abroad was the best experience of my life because it shaped a big part of my personality and I gained a lot of confidence realising I could start over and build everything again whenever I decided to do it.
I wrote an article about how my exchange studies changed my entire career plan, feel free to check it out: https://www.myacpa.org/entity/commission-global-dimensions-student-development/blog/how-my-exchange-studies-changed-my
Awesome, thanks for sharing!
Hailin
Updated
Asami’s Answer
Hi!
I used to study in Japan, and my work do not have much to do with my major. But the experience of studying abroad also has a great impact on my current life and work, especially when I need to communicate with different people.
If you have a chance, I highly recommend that you try studying abroad :)
I used to study in Japan, and my work do not have much to do with my major. But the experience of studying abroad also has a great impact on my current life and work, especially when I need to communicate with different people.
If you have a chance, I highly recommend that you try studying abroad :)
Thanks for sharing!
Hailin
Updated
Jarenn’s Answer
I studied abroad in South Korea for a semester in my senior year of college and I absolutely loved it! My favorite parts were being able to practice the language by being immersed, making new friends who could expose me to the culture and take me to local restaurants/explore, and just to expand my horizon.
I am part Korean, but am 5th generation so it helped shaped me personally as I got to learn a lot about my Korean culture. I took those learning and applied them to the Asian-American Business Employee Resource Groups at my company and did a presentation on doing business in South Korea.
This was one of the greatest times of my life and absolutely formative as it was also the first time I had lived in a dorm, and lived very far from family and friends. It taught me to be more outgoing, open, and adventurous!
I am part Korean, but am 5th generation so it helped shaped me personally as I got to learn a lot about my Korean culture. I took those learning and applied them to the Asian-American Business Employee Resource Groups at my company and did a presentation on doing business in South Korea.
This was one of the greatest times of my life and absolutely formative as it was also the first time I had lived in a dorm, and lived very far from family and friends. It taught me to be more outgoing, open, and adventurous!
Thanks for your answer! I am a first-generation Chinese immigrant in the U.S., but I don't remember much about China. It seems like study abroad in China will help me reconnect with my culture.
Hailin
Updated
Ian’s Answer
I spent two years in Canada before going back to my home country (Hong Kong) to start my bachelor degree, during which I also spent two semesters abroad to two different locations, South Korea and Germany. These experiences definitely equipped me with skills handling multicultural environment at work now at a multinational corporation. Not just with the improvement in language skills but also to be more adaptive and accepting. Every time you start fresh at a new place and away from what you're comfortable with (your friends and family, or even maybe your favourite cafe down the block from your dorm), you learn something new about yourself - your behaviour, your personality, your strengths and weaknesses. You will be exposed to how people from different cultures look at your interested industry. It gives you insight and information from different perspectives. Don't just focus on "how does it sharpen my resume" but try to improve yourself as an individual.
Have fun with your time in Beijing and Good Luck!
Have fun with your time in Beijing and Good Luck!
Thanks for sharing!
Hailin
Updated
Camille’s Answer
Hi Hailin,
I went to study abroad in my last year of university, and it was the best decision I could make. Since I was almost done with my Bachelor and that I really like what I was studying, my 4 months in Europe were for me a good way to improve my English and to work on myself. I really like the fact that I was out of my comfort zone and that I also found myself in situations were I needed to find quick solutions. When you enter a new system of education and a new culture, you need to ask more question and find resources. You are not at all a ease in your environment, but you make it work eventually by demonstrating an open mind and flexibility. In this type of situation you develop resourcefulness and independence, two very important personality traits you need when you start on the labor market.
I was more confident in myself when I came back from my exchange, I was able to speak a second language fluently and I had past experience proving that I could rely on myself facing stressful situations. Without my exchange, I wouldn't have obtain my current job, who is for me one of my biggest accomplishment in life.
I went to study abroad in my last year of university, and it was the best decision I could make. Since I was almost done with my Bachelor and that I really like what I was studying, my 4 months in Europe were for me a good way to improve my English and to work on myself. I really like the fact that I was out of my comfort zone and that I also found myself in situations were I needed to find quick solutions. When you enter a new system of education and a new culture, you need to ask more question and find resources. You are not at all a ease in your environment, but you make it work eventually by demonstrating an open mind and flexibility. In this type of situation you develop resourcefulness and independence, two very important personality traits you need when you start on the labor market.
I was more confident in myself when I came back from my exchange, I was able to speak a second language fluently and I had past experience proving that I could rely on myself facing stressful situations. Without my exchange, I wouldn't have obtain my current job, who is for me one of my biggest accomplishment in life.
Thank you for sharing!
Hailin
Updated
Carrie’s Answer
If you are able to and have the finances to support studying abroad, I definitely think you should go for it. I spent my 5th year studying abroad in Spain. As everyone else has said, it helped me become fluent in the language and exposed me to another culture. What I'd also add is that in study abroad programs you often are with students from around your country as well and with that you learn more about your own country. Also, I met other study abroad students from other countries. Through that I made friends with people from Japan and went to visit them at the end of my last study abroad semester. I never would have thought a study abroad trip to Spain would lead me to Japan. Often study abroad programs will take you on trips around the country you go to, but also to neighboring countries (especially in Europe where its so easy). Studying abroad for a year also allowed me to take other trips during holiday breaks.
Being forced to get out of your comfort zone has so many advantages as you move into your career. It gives you the confidence to take risks with a level of confidence I don't think you'd have without studying abroad. I now work in a large, global company and it's been easy to form strong relationships and friendships with my international colleagues as I feel I am more understanding of their points of view after now having assessed the U.S. from the outside. Through my work I've made friendships that have taken me on a vacation to South Korea and I've had Colombian friends visit me in the U.S.
I wish you the best of luck, and hope you are open to experiencing everything studying abroad offers!
Being forced to get out of your comfort zone has so many advantages as you move into your career. It gives you the confidence to take risks with a level of confidence I don't think you'd have without studying abroad. I now work in a large, global company and it's been easy to form strong relationships and friendships with my international colleagues as I feel I am more understanding of their points of view after now having assessed the U.S. from the outside. Through my work I've made friendships that have taken me on a vacation to South Korea and I've had Colombian friends visit me in the U.S.
I wish you the best of luck, and hope you are open to experiencing everything studying abroad offers!
Thank you for sharing.
Hailin