Benefits of Study Abroad
You’re going to learn a lot, both inside and far beyond the classroom. Just applying to study abroad requires that you take a close look at your academic progress and may even increase the likelihood of an on-time graduation. Once abroad, you’ll discover new ways of learning and teaching, gain a firsthand understanding of the higher education system of another country, and engage in challenging coursework and rewarding hands-on learning experiences such as internships, service learning, and field-based research. Suffolk’s study abroad and academic advisors will provide you with personalized support and advising before, during, and after your international experience.
You’re going to change and grow as a human being. Not only will you gain a greater understanding of other peoples and cultures, you are also likely to develop increased self-awareness and a better sense of your place in the world. An immersive study abroad experience can result in greater adaptability, independence, self-confidence, and maturity, too.
You’re going to stand out from the crowd. Nationally, only about 10% of American undergraduate students participate in any kind of credit-bearing study abroad prior to graduation. By approaching your study abroad experience with intention and purpose, you may be setting yourself up for a brighter professional future. The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) even lists global/intercultural fluency as a core competency for career readiness.
You have the potential to make the world a better place. When you study abroad, you’ll become an ambassador for your home culture, country, and for Suffolk University—you’ll be a true student diplomat. Each interaction you have with a local is an opportunity to change hearts and minds and to improve international relations.