If you’re reading this article, chances are you’re considering studying abroad. If so, that’s a wise decision. Studying abroad is an experience that can change your life for the better, both personally and professionally.

One of the biggest benefits of studying abroad is that it can make you more employable. Research shows that students who study abroad go on to enjoy more successful careers in life. In our era of rapid transformation, organizations are increasingly looking for candidates with international experience and global skills. Studying abroad gives you the opportunity to develop these skills in a unique and immersive way.

Source: Student Testimonials, Queen’s University Belfast

In-Demand Skills You Can Gain

Employers value international experience for a range of reasons. Here are a few of the in-demand skills that you can gain from experience studying abroad.

Language

In our increasingly globalized world, learning a new language or improving your language skills is a valuable asset in any industry. It’s especially important for jobs that require international travel or interaction with foreign clients.

Communication

Studying abroad forces you to communicate with people from different backgrounds and cultures. This helps you develop your listening and speaking skills, as well as your ability to understand and adapt to different communication styles. These skills are essential for any job that involves teamwork or collaboration.

Problem-solving

Studying abroad exposes you to different ways of thinking and problem-solving. This helps you develop your critical thinking skills and your ability to see the world from multiple perspectives. These skills are highly valued by employers in all industries.

Cultural Awareness

Studying abroad helps you develop your cultural awareness and understanding. This includes learning about the values, customs, and beliefs of different cultures. Cultural awareness is an important skill for any job that requires interaction with people from different backgrounds.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Studying abroad exposes you to new cultures and ways of thinking, helping you become more open-minded and adaptable to change. It also often requires you to step outside your comfort zone and try new things. This strengthens your resilience and ability to cope with challenges. Employers value individuals who are able to learn new things quickly and work effectively in a variety of situations. These are essential skills in today’s rapidly changing world, where businesses and industries are constantly evolving.

Self-Awareness

Studying abroad can help you develop your self-awareness skills in a number of ways. First, it encourages you to reflect on your own values and goals. Second, when you inevitably face new challenges and experiences, you will better understand your strengths and weaknesses. This self-knowledge helps employees to make better decisions, set realistic goals, and build positive relationships with others.

Curiosity

Studying abroad sparks a desire to learn and explore, an essential skill for success in any field. Exposure to new cultures, languages, and ways of thinking cultivates curiosity. Curiosity in the workplace leads to seeking new ways to improve skills and knowledge, asking questions, and exploring new ideas, benefiting both individuals and employers.

The Recent Graduate Survey by IES Abroad found that study abroad may be one of the best ways for college students to find jobs sooner after graduation, related to their majors, and at a higher starting salary.

The Evidence

Research has shown that studying abroad can have a significant impact on your employability. For example, a study by the Association for International Education (AIFS) found that 80% of international students reported that studying abroad allowed them to better adapt to diverse work environments, and 70% claimed that because of studying abroad, they were more satisfied with their jobs.

Another study by the Institute of International Education (IIE) found that among alumni who studied abroad for one academic year, 68 percent reported studying abroad contributed to a job offer or promotion, compared to just 43 percent of alumni who studied abroad for fewer than eight weeks.

What Employers Say

Employers are also increasingly recognizing the value of studying abroad. A survey by MetLife found that two-thirds of teachers (63%), parents (63%), and Fortune 1000 executives (65%) think that “global awareness” (knowledge of other nations and cultures and international issues) is very important or absolutely essential to be ready for college and a career.

The Erasmus impact study sheds light on factors that are highly valued by employers, including transversal skills and international experience.

Apply Today

Overall, studying abroad can be a great way to improve your job prospects in a number of ways. It can help you develop in-demand skills, have a competitive advantage, expand your network, gain access to more job opportunities, and demonstrate your independence, resilience, and global perspective

Apply now to our study abroad program and start your journey to a more employable future.