- You will rewire your brain: Going out of our comfort zone to experience an unfamiliar place fires off our neurons (which send messages in our brains) and creates new connections that didn’t exist before. Study abroad will expand your mind in ways you didn’t think possible in such a short time frame—you’ll almost instantly become more adaptable, empathetic and flexible. You’ll also experience improved mental health, returning home feeling stronger and more focused.
- You will grow more independent: Most high school students have rarely been away from their families for extended periods, with many never having experienced solo air travel or going abroad alone! Studying abroad pushes you to independently navigate a new territory, far away from your parents, guardians and everything that you know, but with the help of a study abroad organization that can still provide you safety and support abroad. On a study abroad program, you’ll discover a new you, gain new interests, reflect on your life back home, and return feeling more in charge of your decisions.
- You will learn a language faster: Learning a language in the classroom can only go so far. When surrounded by a language in a new place, you get to try out your skills 24/7. This can mean great, rapid language gains.
- You will immerse yourself in a culture: Just the simple act of catching a plane to a foreign place is a great thing for anybody. However, there’s a big difference between merely traveling somewhere and studying abroad. When you travel, you can see major landmarks, try new food, and learn a little bit of history. On the other hand, going on a study abroad program lets you better understand the setting you’re in, connecting you with locals and giving you greater access to the authentic culture (beyond what the average traveler sees).
- You will make new friends.
- You will develop new skills.
- You will have memories that will last a lifetime.
7 Benefits of Studying Abroad in High School
