Why Study Abroad?

An Enriching Experience

We passionately believe that the right study abroad experience can be the most enriching semester or summer of a student's college experience. In our many years of study abroad, we practically never meet a student who regrets their decision to study abroad.

In today's rapidly globalizing world, having an understanding of and appreciation for a broader international context is a critical component of a student's education. No amount of classroom work at a student's home institution can replicate the experience of actually seeing, first-hand, the topics that a student is studying.

Valued by Employers

We also find that an international study experience is valued by many employers and graduate programs that feel it indicates maturity, capability and broad-ranging interests in a student. In an increasingly competitive job environment, the right study abroad experience can help set a young job or graduate school applicant apart.

For many study abroad students, study abroad represents a beginning, not an end-point; our students often that a study abroad experience uncovers new academic pathways or career interests for them.

Personal Development and Growth

Beyond the practical and academic benefits, study abroad is a tremendous vehicle for personal growth and development. The challenges to a student's worldview and capabilities that come from living and studying in a foreign country typically lead to students that are more capable and confident in their abilities to be successful in unfamiliar environments.

More Common Than Ever

These factors have led an increasing number of students studying abroad. In 2003/2004, over 191,000 students from the United States studied abroad, an increase of over 100% from 1991/1992. (Source: Institute for International Education).

"I'm gratified to see the continued growth in the numbers of American students studying overseas," said Patricia Harrison, the State Department's Assistant Secretary for Educational and Cultural Affairs.

"As the new Open Doors report shows, more students are studying abroad than ever before, a sign that young Americans clearly recognize the crucial role they will play in leading our nation into a world even more interdependent than it is today. By encouraging more students to participate in educational opportunities abroad, U.S. colleges and universities and the federal government through programs like the Gilman Scholarships and the Fulbright Fellowships help expand our citizens' awareness of global issues and lay the groundwork for the kind of mutual understanding that builds a better future for all of us."

Source: Institute for International Education, Nov 15, 2004.

A Unique Time in Life

College is a unique time and opportunity for students to spend time immersed in a foreign country in a manner that is all but impossible later in life. Whether it is with Global Learning Semesters or another provider, we encourage you and your son and daughter to learn more about a study abroad experience that could be right for them!