Towards the unknown

Dr Fahim Chand | Monday February 27, 2023 06:00

This current trend of movement seems to have translated to the present day, with migration being more common now than ever before. Moving away from one’s home is an astronomical step towards the unknown, often coupled with many trials and tribulations.

Despite the initial shock of a foreign, novel land, there are many benefits to be reaped from living in an environment that is inherently different from one’s usual surroundings.

From a plethora of different educational and economic opportunities to the enrichment of oneself through exposure to different cultures. As the world’s population grows more mobile, global institutions’ constraints disintegrate. Regardless of Covid, international colleges accept study abroad students. While the prospect of studying abroad may appear intimidating at first, a trip across the ocean to an international university may provide distinct benefits. Benefits that might give life skills to improve professional chances and provide a clear vision of the global community.

Immersion in a new learning experience allows for the enjoyment of a new culture as well as the advancement of oneself. The numerous countries that comprise the global village provide a diversity of living experiences, each with its own set of obstacles. Exposure to these scenarios enables a pupil to view the world and life in new light. The most common host nations for foreign students are the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Australia. These five nations are home to half of all overseas students. The benefits of study abroad programmes are numerous. According to data from a poll conducted by the Institute for International Education of Students (IES) and updated for 2023, 98% of respondents said their study abroad experience helped them better understand their own cultural beliefs and prejudices. Furthermore, 94% claimed the experience has continued to influence their interactions with individuals from diverse cultures, and 90% said studying abroad motivated them to seek out a wider range of friends. Lasting friendships with people based in different countries is a great base for a diverse international academic network which can provide a wider spectrum of opinions and expertise, which can also enhance the quality of your own learning.

When faced with a new scenario, it enables for personal development. Every new encounter has the potential to be both a challenge and an adventure! Taking a risk and leaving your home will better equip you to meet future problems. Stepping out of your comfort zone acts as a catalyst for developing problem-solving abilities that will help you to deal with the unexpected. Studying abroad is a transforming experience that promotes both personal and intellectual progress.

Once again, IES adds further validation. Ninety-seven percent of global scholars said studying abroad accelerated their maturation, 96% said it enhanced their self-confidence, and 95% said it had a long-term influence on their worldview. The foreign experience prepares the student for a career in an international setting. We live in a world that is becoming increasingly globalised. The international integration of national markets and corporations has been facilitated by new technology. Multinational and small firms alike require people with cross-cultural competency and knowledge of other languages to compete successfully in the global economy.

When students travel overseas, they are more receptive to new information and expertise, and that knowledge is frequently more easily relevant and adaptable to circumstances demanding international engagement; as a result, they may expect to be more competitive in today’s globalised world. Anyone who can demonstrate on their CV that they studied abroad has a significant edge when it comes to impressing prospective employers. It will demonstrate to your future employer that you can stand on your own two feet, that you can adapt to new circumstances, and that you are resourceful and proactive.

Further illustrating the value of international academics, study abroad alumni earn on average $7,000 more in starting salary compared to the general population of US college graduates. While preparing for an international study experience, it would be natural to anticipate the most exciting part of the experience.

And while these experiences surely await, one shouldn’t look past the reality that beckons. Indeed a mindset in anticipation of a language barrier and culture shock would be in order. Will you be able to converse with your classmates and the locals? Religious customs, as well as transportation systems and fashion, may differ from those in your native nation. Sadly, cultural shock can cause dissatisfaction, worry, and homesickness. These differences might cause significant stress if you are not prepared to deal with them. Though I think with careful planning and an adventurous spirit, the world awaits. Maybe it’s time to dust off that passport?