Step Outside of Your Comfort Zone and Grow with Study Abroad Programs

Studying abroad is a transformative experience that gives young adults lessons that cannot be taught in the classroom. This experience can be nerve-wracking at first, however in the end, it can bring you new perspectives, lessons, and challenges that deepen your appreciation for life. Studying abroad has become more popular among college students in recent years. A study conducted by IES Abroad revealed that more than 96 percent of students surveyed indicated that they believe study abroad increased their self-confidence. Over 97 percent said the experience enabled them to learn something new about themselves and served as a catalyst for increased maturity. Studying abroad gives young adults the opportunity to gain a global perspective, learn so much about their personal character, and foster cross-cultural relationships. This experience sets students up for success in the work world and memories that last a lifetime!

One of the most impactful benefits of studying abroad is gaining a global perspective. Living in another country opens your eyes to different customs, traditions, and ways of thinking. One of the best ways to enhance your experience is to live with a host family. Integrating yourself in a culture and learning how locals live is extremely important. When I studied abroad in Madrid, my host family had daily meal times where we could all talk about things going on in the world or in our personal lives. Hearing their thoughts and perspectives opened my eyes to new ways of thinking about current issues and cultural norms. Having this global perspective not only broadens your understanding of the world but also enhances your ability to think critically about global issues.

Image of the iconic Tio Pepe sign in Madrid

Image of the streets of Madrid

Another key transformation that comes from studying abroad is personal growth and maturity. From language barriers to homesickness, every obstacle you face helps you build resilience and confidence. These challenging moments push you to problem solve, adapt, and become independent. For example, when I planned my weekend trips at first I made many mistakes but by the end of the semester I had a checklist to prioritize the location of where to stay, book any excursions ahead of time, and make sure to bring cash. Once the semester is over, you’ll likely find yourself stepping into situations you once avoided and be open to change.

Lastly, the cross-cultural experiences of studying abroad enhance your life. Getting to know students from different parts of the world allows you to embrace new cultures. When I traveled to Portugal, we met locals who shared their experiences as students and showed us their favorite spots in the city. It was fun to connect with people who were the same age as me and I learned about a unique tradition many students participate in. This tradition is called Capa e Batina, where students wear cloaks as a type of uniform to signify their status as university students. These connections not only make your time abroad more rewarding but also teach you to appreciate others’ differences. Getting to know people from different countries allows you to bring back stories and a deeper appreciation for the differences that make up our world.

Studying abroad transforms you in ways that extend far beyond the classroom. Stepping out of your comfort zone, you can gain a global perspective, grow through challenges, and create cross-cultural connections. Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that helps you become more open-minded, resilient, and ready to take on the world. If you’re looking for recommendations on countries to visit during your time abroad, be sure to check out my guide!