This story was originally published on the Career & Professional Development Center’s blog, Peaks & Valleys.
It may be a cliché, but surely, you have heard from a friend, a professor or a family member that study abroad is a must while in college. While we totally agree, it is important to delve into why study abroad (we call it “Learning Abroad” here at the U) is such a great opportunity. Here is some solid data:
Set yourself up for success post-college. A 50-year longitudinal study from study abroad provider the Institute for the International Education of Students (IES) showed that students who participate in learning abroad saw a variety of benefits:
- Jobs secured more quickly after graduation
- Higher starting salaries, as compared to recent U.S. college graduates
- Higher acceptance into graduate school programs
Furthermore, a recent study from the Institute for International Education (IIE) on Gaining an Employment Edge–The Impact of Study Abroad, showed that learning abroad facilitated the development of 21st-century job skills, especially intercultural and interpersonal competency that have long-term impacts on career progression and promotion.
We love to hear past Learning Abroad participants talk affectionately about their international experience. We talk about ours with the same conviction. What’s more? Studies show that students who learn abroad stand out.
Having a learning abroad experience on your resume shows employers that you are curious, ready to learn and not afraid of treading in uncharted territory. That’s because students who learn abroad acquire valuable skills and qualities sought by employers.