Study Abroad Impacts Your Career
Ever dream of ambling the cobblestone streets of Copenhagen, exploring Mexico’s ancient ruins, or sipping a cappuccino in Siena? Your dreams can become a reality through studying abroad! And if you—or your family—need extra convincing, we’re here to highlight all of the amazing personal and professional benefits spending a semester overseas can offer.
Studying abroad isn’t just an integral part of a well-rounded Brandeis education, it’s also an investment in your future. A staggering 73% of prospective employers consider study abroad experience to be a crucial factor when evaluating the resumes of candidates for junior-level positions. Those who participate encounter unique outlooks, unusual challenges, and unexplored cultures, contributing to a more nuanced and diverse worldview.
But what specific benefits can you expect from studying abroad during your time at Brandeis?
Improving Skills
A 2017 study conducted by the Institute of International Education (IIE) found numerous professional benefits for those who partook, including improved interview performance, soft skill development, and stronger candidate profiles.
Even during shorter study abroad experiences (eight weeks or less), students improved their teamwork capabilities, while those who went abroad for a semester or more saw improvement in nearly every category measured.
To recruiters, embarking on these adventures showcases your ability to thrive in new and unfamiliar environments while displaying a level of maturity and adaptability that employers highly value. By taking on the challenge of studying in a foreign country, you demonstrate the willingness and capability to broaden your horizons and embrace diverse cultures, a skill set that is indispensable in today's world.
Acquiring Languages
Study of or fluency in a non-English language is a graduation requirement for all Brandeis students and study of the local language and culture is an integral part of studying abroad.
According to the Language Connects Foundation, 9 out of 10 U.S. employers rely on employees with language skills other than English, and 56% say this demand will only increase in the coming years.
Interview Performance
Employers who recruit at Brandeis place less emphasis on specific majors or GPAs, recognizing how those restrictions impact recruitment and office culture. Instead, they typically value students' diversity, social justice focus, and critical thinking skills.
One way students can highlight these key aspects is through their study abroad experiences, which often provide unique difficulties and solutions to discuss with an interviewer. According to IIE’s study, the majority of candidates cited that their experiences made it easier to highlight skills and build a personal bond with an interviewer.
At the end of the day, a large portion of students who ended up getting offered a job believed that discussing their time studying abroad played a direct contribution to their offer.
By choosing to study abroad, you’re enriching your academic experience and gaining a competitive edge in the job market. Employers seek candidates who have a global perspective, and your study abroad experience will set you apart from the crowd.