Why go on exchange?
Study abroad opens up the world for students wishing to Expand their campus and the benefits of doing so are numerous. Not only is it an interesting, fun, and enriching experience, it is also a career enhancer. Here is a list of some of the many benefits available to students who study abroad!
1. Expand your campus and see the world!
One of the top reasons you should consider a study abroad program is the opportunity to see the world. By studying abroad, students have the opportunity to study in a foreign nation and take in the excitement and culture of a new land. You will experience a brand-new country with incredible new perspectives, customs and activities. By living and studying in a foreign culture, you not only have the opportunity to learn within your formal education program, but you also learn about how people in other countries think, live, play and work.
The benefits of studying abroad include the opportunity to see new terrains, natural wonders, museums and landmarks of your host nation. Unlike short term vacations, studying abroad is the perfect opportunity to fully immerse yourself in a completely new environment and culture. Over several months, you will be able to explore the country you are studying in while experiencing life as a local on a day-to-day basis.
2. Learn a new language
One of the best ways to learn a new language is to immerse yourself in the culture and have fun while you learn – this is so much better than sitting in the classroom for a language course!
3. Personal Development
Taking the opportunity to live and study abroad gives you a unique opportunity to be innovative and independent, take initiative, and make new friends. An international stay requires a lot of planning and responsibility, whether you are on the other side of the border in Denmark or the other side of the world in Australia. A huge benefit to studying abroad is the opportunity to discover yourself while gaining an understanding of a different culture. Being in a new place by yourself can be overwhelming at times, and it tests your ability to adapt to diverse situations while being able to problem solve. Leaving security in Sweden and living and studying abroad suggests courage and independence; proves that you have a desire to learn and that you are prepared to take challenges in your own development. It is not always easy, but it is most definitely an exciting challenge!
4. Professional Development
If you ever have considered working abroad after completing your studies, exchange is the perfect opportunity to expand your network globally while connecting with locals and fellow exchange students. During your studies abroad, you will have the opportunity to work with a combination of local and exchange students, allowing you to grasp a better understanding of how to work effectively with people from various backgrounds. You will also have the chance to learn from and connect to educators and specialists from around the world, thus broadening your contact network!
5. Career Opportunities
When you finish your study abroad program and return home, you will return with a new perspective on culture, language skills, a great education, and a willingness to learn. Needless to say, all of these are very attractive to future employers. Adding your studies abroad onto your resume/CV will certainly help you stand out to a recruiter amongst other applicants, given that they may be interested in learning more about your time abroad. They will acknowledge that you have experience working with and in different cultures, which will prove a valuable skill in your professional life.
6. Cultural Experience
Meeting new people and making new friends, tasting new foods and exploring new places – being part of a student exchange is valuable.
Living day to day in another country gives you the unique opportunity to not only expand your campus and learning environment but also your playground!
Students learn about the ways and customs of another country, from its folk songs and dances, to its business practices, educational methods, and its etiquette and cuisine. Students often talk about their experiences and applaud the educational benefits. Those who study abroad have opportunities, experiences and challenges that may change the way they see life, the world and their place in it.
7. Be an ambassador for Sweden and Jönköping University
Study abroad is a great opportunity to tell the world how wonderful Sweden is! Be a proud JU student and share some facts about Sweden and Swedish culture that don’t include Abba and Ikea! While you are overseas, don’t forget to be a good ambassador for Jönköping University. You will have many opportunities to inspire prospective students to come to Jönköping for a part of their own educational journey. Internationalization is important to Jönköping University and gives you and others access to an international learning environment.