The best parts of study abroad

Learning a foreign language can be beneficial for anyone, but if your education has largely taken place in your own country, a study abroad program can be a truly life-altering experience.

By learning a foreign language abroad, you’ll gain a greater understanding of the culture and background, giving you insight into the individuals and stories of your heritage. You’ll learn to speak with a foreign accent and adapt to a different culture than you thought possible. Additionally, the more cultural context you have in your language learning, the more interest you’ll have in learning more.

Every culture has its own symbols, customs, and vocabulary. These can vary greatly from one to the next. The exposure to different viewpoints that you gain from study abroad will stick with you forever! We asked people what the most important part of study abroad was to them, and some of the answers that we got were surprising. We’ve listed some of our favorites below:

The benefits of Study Abroad

• • While studying abroad as an undergraduate in Spain, I learned how to up my academic game because the school was much more rigorous than my home university in the United States. I was in awe of the intellectual caliber of the professors, graduate assistants, and undergraduate students, especially when it came to their advanced knowledge of my specialty. The exams and assignments I took at the study abroad university were also far more difficult than those I encountered at my home university. Consequently, I was forced to study like I never had before in order to earn passing grades. I am grateful for having studied abroad in Spain because when I returned to my home university, I felt inspired to work much harder and earn higher grades. As a result, I was able to graduate with honors and attend an Ivy League graduate school.
  • The most important thing I learned while studying abroad was how to navigate an entirely new place all on my own. It was the first time that I lived outside of the area that I grew up in, and it was all foreign to me. Even the simplest things were all new to me.
  • I learned to speak Spanish and delved into the political, cultural, and economic differences of life in Spain. I certainly came back with much better Spanish language skills and a deeper understanding of the forces shaping Spain as a nation. And I also learn some lessons that were more personal, lessons learned from studying abroad that changed how I moved through life.
  • I learned to love what I don’t understand, and I learned to stop, take a deep breath, and then get creative.
  • Learning abroad is really exciting in many respects. We learned about different cultures and international languages. We experienced different teaching methods. We learned how to be self-reliant, and we got exposure to international skillsets.
  • Honing my language skills was the most important thing I learned while studying abroad. I found new interests in my area of study which enabled me to gain vast and advanced knowledge, thus gaining life experience.
  • When I studied abroad in Spain, I learned many important lessons. First, I learned how to rely on myself. Moving to a foreign country without knowing anyone meant that I had to learn how to solve my problems without the presence of friends and family. I learned how to be open-minded. Not everything is going to be the same in the new country; in fact, sometimes things were very different, and that’s okay. I also learned how to slow down and enjoy the moment. I saw so many beautiful landscapes and architectural marvels. I learned how to slow down and appreciate what was in front of me.
  • During my time in Spain, I learned more about myself than I really did in any class structure. I learned that being away from home and having to be outside your own comfort zone can be liberating. I learned that cultural differences can be biased and knowing people for who they are is way more important. I also learned that writing my experiences during that time can be a great way to capture moments in time.
  • Studying abroad in a county where both English and Spanish were spoken, I had the ability to practice my newly-learned Spanish language skills while having the safety of having English speakers assist me. I was also able to learn cultural practices from native people; which was different than media portrayals. Finally, I was able to apply what I had learned directly to my assignments and instead of looking things up, I was able to visit locations and speak with people to get up close accounts of my research.
  • The most important thing I have learned is a good command of the Spanish language. I am a true believer that you cannot learn a language fully unless you totally immerse yourself in the language and culture. Studying abroad helped me achieve just that.
  • I think the most valuable thing that I learned while studying abroad was probably how different the world is in different places. That might sound a little cliche, but I think so many of us underestimate the effect the culture we were brought up in has on our perception of the world. My entire worldview shifted once I was exposed to something slightly different than what I was used to. Once that veil of learned behavior was off, I was able to react and interact in such natural, curious, and thoughtful ways. It was one of the best things that I’ve ever done.
  • Studying abroad is challenging and rewarding. The experience of interacting with other fellow students from other countries would increase the overall understanding of different cultures and values – plus helps you begin to think on your own in terms of decision making, which will benefit in future situations.
  • Studying abroad taught me independence, language, and responsibilities.
  • The summer after my freshman year of college, I studied abroad in Guadalajara, Mexico. I went to Spanish conversation classes every day but in between classes I toured the city and learned about the culture. The most important things I learned when studying another culture were things about my own culture and values. I was out of my comfort zone and it was a great experience.
  • The most important thing that I learned while studying abroad was that you need to be open-minded. If you close yourself off to the different culture, place, and experiences then you will not be able to immerse yourself, and truly enjoy what is there around you. Going in with no expectations and an open-mind made my experience a wonderful one.
  • My year spent traveling abroad was one of the most valuable and formative of my life. Being a college student overseas required a new level of responsibility, in managing everything from finances to travel arrangements. I also learned a great deal about cultures that would have not been possible without actually being on the soil of nations across the globe.
  • The most important thing I learned while studying abroad was how to be self-sufficient and independent. I also learned about cultural differences that go so far beyond the expected ones– everything was different! I learned how huge the world is and that my own culture and background is just such a small part of it. It was a growth and learning experience above all. It made me confident that I could do anything since I had immersed myself in a new place like that, totally alone.
  • When I was in high school, I studied abroad in Spain. I did not speak Spanish, but luckily I was in a part of Spain where English was also common. I loved being there, but also was homesick quite often. I missed my family, my bed, and my friends. I wouldn’t trade my experience for anything though because I met people I wouldn’t have met and had a place to stay anytime I am able to go back.
  • When studying abroad I learned how one thing can become a vital part of cultural identity, ingrained in its history even in small ways.
  • First of all, becoming independent is very important while studying abroad. You are an independent adult now and needed to be more responsible. Second, don’t be hesitant to make new friends at all. You need to make your social circle bigger. Third and the most important thing that I have learned is to experience cultural relativism and respect for cultural diversity and differences.
  • While studying abroad, the most important thing I learned about was self-reliance. While I still had a support system back home, I was alone in Spain without anyone in driving distance. I created my own group of friends, but most importantly I relied on myself to get everything done to be in a new country for an extended period of time.
  • I saw new things and met new people. I learned how to survive in a brand new environment, where I was a stranger. It taught me a lot of personal skills.
  • The most important thing I learned while studying abroad through a high school exchange program in Spain was how to communicate effectively with others. I was living with a family whose customs were very different from mine. Not only that, but our languages and environment were different too. I had to learn to adapt socially to this new place and communicate for 6 months or I’d be in for a long trip.
  • The most important thing I learned studying abroad is that daily culture I take for granted is different across the world!
  • Studying abroad provides many advantages students can gain, such as broadening world views and ways of thinking by experiencing different cultures firsthand. Benefiting students with future career opportunities by providing more life experiences and personal code for international students, the chance to adjust to a new culture, as well as to build and develop the necessary academic language skills.
  • While studying abroad, I learned how to use a public transit system. I also learned how to communicate effectively in a country where English is not the native language.
  • That cultures are different but respect is universal. Food is made with love. The role of mothers is the same everywhere. Caring requires effort, but kindness is simple.
  • The most important thing I learned while studying abroad in Spain was that I had to keep up with a more challenging curriculum than what I was accustomed to back in the United States. Chemistry, physics, and calculus were all regular courses taken by the general education students. It was mandatory to pass these courses also. I had to practice my Spanish more so that I could communicate my ideas and thoughts better to others. I had to work on my writing skills too in a foreign language because it isn’t all about speaking.
  • I learned to become independent. I learned to say yes to everything. I learned to make new friends without being afraid.
  • Studying abroad enriched my life by forcing me to interact with students from different countries. It broadened my mind, my perceptions, and understanding. It enabled me to have different cultural experiences.
  • I studied abroad for a semester in Spain during college and learned to respect other cultures. We often take our own culture for granted and don’t realize that some things are not the same in other parts of the world.
  • The most important thing I learned abroad is that my cultural experience is not universal. People even in countries considered very similar to the United States do certain things very differently and may not relate to all of my feelings and worldview as an American. They may also have the same puzzlement toward me as I have toward them.
  • Studying abroad is a unique opportunity where new horizons are opened and new opportunities for growth, maturity, and values happen both personally and professionally.
  • I studied abroad in Malaga, Spain. While the program I was volunteering with wasn’t as organized as advertised, it put me in a position to explore Spain on my own and gain that first-hand experience. I didn’t get what I was promised out of it, but I got a lot more life experience and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.
  • The most important thing I learned while studying abroad was to take my mental health seriously. I hadn’t ever taken my mental health seriously, but the amount of work, socializing, and distance from loved ones took a toll on me. But by the end of my time there, I’d figured out a little better how to handle stressors without turning to alcohol.
  • Studying abroad opened my eyes to how little I knew about the world. Cultures are so different across countries and immersing myself allowed me to explore a whole new way of living and really appreciate the country that I come from. As a business student, I can now conduct business in multiple countries and it looks great on my resume!
  • I understood what loneliness meant. I had to start from scratch to build my social life. I learned that humans no matter where they were no matter how different they may look deep down they are all alike. I learned how cold this world could be. I learned that in the end there is only one thing you can rely on and that is yourself. I learned that no matter what you shouldn’t give up and keep pushing forward. That is the reason why I am just one more year away from obtaining my MD degree.
  • The most important thing I learned while studying abroad is your need to be sensitive to other cultures. No matter where you go, people do things differently. You need to be sensitive to the differences and not judgmental. We are all different in the way we do things. One way is not better or right compared to the other way.
  • while I was studying abroad I made new friends. I also learned a new language and skills. I had a chance to get to know other cultures, foods and new places like historical buildings, museums, local shop markets.
  • Most importantly I learned that we all truly have the same vital needs. Food, shelter, and to be happy love and safety. For all those things there comes a level control and without them, you are left pretty vulnerable and sometimes that means doing things you wouldn’t otherwise have.
  • I learned about how to experience life on a budget. I was living on my own for the first time ever and needed to really manage how I spent and saved in Portugal while studying abroad. This taught me financial discipline that has helped me later on!
  • Studying abroad provided me with a unique opportunity. I got the chance to fulfill my dream of obtaining a Ph.D. Now, I have the achievement to contribute back to society.
  • The most important thing that I learned during my study abroad was how differently people from other countries think, their approach to a problem and arriving at a solution. The difference in the method of education, where Western countries promote more of experimental learning than theoretical learning was another thing that I learned. The third most important thing was how to exhibit/showcase your work to others in an impressive manner.
  • From studying abroad, I learned that there is more to be learned by not staying in one place. I learned that the country I was from was not the center of the universe. I learned that there is so much more in life that is important than I thought.
  • I learned that we all can discover so much and broaden our horizons by immersing ourselves in a culture different from our own. There are new foods, new ways of life, new sayings and new experiences to be had. Most importantly I learned that humans, regardless of their culture, are more similar than different.
  • I learned how the media in another part of the world reports on events in America, where I am from, is more accurate and objective than the news reports from American media. I was a student in Spain and the reporting thereon America was more informative and thorough, unbiased than what I would see from ABC, CBS, and NBC. This taught me to be more of a critical thinker about the American media and what their goals really are – clicks and ad revenue – rather than fact reporting and the long history of independent journalism.
  • I studied in Spain during my junior year in the summer. One of the things that struck me the most was how immersed I got in the local neighborhood that I was living in and the kindness of the local people there. I learned about the language, some of the local customs, and most importantly, the most delicious restaurants!
  • The opportunity to study abroad broadened my horizons – physically, emotionally, and mentally. I was able to explore another country and culture at a crucial time in my own personal development. The experience strengthened my independence and allowed me to prove to myself that I could navigate by myself in a strange place. I learned to be self-sufficient, plan my own excursions, and be truly alone for the first time. It was a beautiful time that I continue to look back on fondly.
  • I learned that I learn better from experiencing life than from any book.
  • The most important thing I learned while studying abroad is how one needs to be self-reliant. Learning the language, trends, history, and customs of another country is essential to success. During this time I learned multiple languages and how to navigate several cities, all of which would later prove useful when I returned home.
  • The most important thing I learned while studying abroad was not necessarily academic, but cultural. Learning about daily life in a foreign country has meant more to me than any class I took in my course. The differences between the United States and daily life in Spain was more then I thought before going to the country.
  • I learned that I have to be humble always. I have to learn to ask questions. And lastly, seek help when need be.
  • When I studied abroad I was exposed to a way of thinking that was communal and not individualistic. I learned that having to choose everything based on me seemed unnatural to those around me. My sense of self was challenged.
  • I studied abroad in Spain as a part of my college’s study abroad program for its school of Business. I had a fantastic time and learned many things. The most important thing I learned was the influence that local businesses had on the national scale, and then on the international scale.
  • Studying abroad gave me the opportunity to learn more about myself – namely, my ability to understand and appreciate other cultures. Spending a month in Spain opened my eyes to just how different other regions of the world are from my home in the United States. This appreciation will follow me throughout my future career, as it will allow me to connect more deeply with the people I work with and apply more dynamic solutions to social problems. Not only this, but I will be able to incorporate lessons learned from Spanish culture into my daily life, particularly spirituality (which, as it turns out, does not need to come from religion). This will without a doubt help me to lead a more thoughtful and enjoyable life.
  • When I studied in Spain it bought me a lot of exposure and experience, the first thing is I was independent and all alone away from family, this made me more responsible, I had learned life-skill to be independent, had become a street smart personality and it made me realize what I want in my life and what I am capable off, secondly is my financial management skills and maturity level in decision making was to a whole new level.
  • The most important thing I learned while studying abroad was how to be independent and rely on myself financially. I learned how to save money and find extra work to pay my bills. It also made me more organized because I had to get good grades in school which requires a lot of time and attention.
  • While studying abroad in Spain I learned that people across the world are more or less the same. People value the same things within a small community and careless in larger, more urban populations. The biggest thing I learned was the fast-paced nature Americans, particularly New Yorkers, live by is not tolerated in Spain.
  • I learned how different other cultures are. Even in Spain it just has a completely different atmosphere. People are more mature there and you have to work harder and school because it is more difficult. Jobs are also stricter and its harder to get hired over there.
  • I learned that culture goes much deeper than surface-level looks. I also learned the importance of openness to new things. Lastly, I learned while studying abroad that trying new things leads to great experiences.
  • What I learned and experienced while studying is the vast and glory of not only visiting a different country but the richness and value in the culture. Being in the United States and from the south a lot of cultures that are deeply rooted in the south we are afraid to talk about. However, studying abroad help learn experience the world around me that I never knew.
  • If you are debating whether or not to study abroad, I have your answer, DO IT! It is beyond worth the price you pay. The experience you receive from not only being outside your culture zone but the new people you get to meet and the experiences that come along with it makes it all worth it. You are studying and you are able to do it in the places rich in culture and the professors are incredibly understanding if you are having a difficult time with homesickness, I could not express how caring they can be! The friendships are forever and I could go on and go, do it! Invest in your future!
  • I learned that for the Spanish people, meals are opportunities to sit down, converse, and enjoy incredible food in the company of friends and family. This is why there are often extended periods for lunch and dinner rather than the hour or less than Americans take for these meals. Spanish cuisine is among the best in the world due to the ingredients and the preparation of the meals. I highly recommend that everyone visit Spain at least once in their lifetime!
  • I was able to try new foods. I was able to learn a new language. And I was able to practice meeting new people.
  • The most important thing I learned while studying abroad was to love, value, and see the importance of other cultures’ beliefs, traditions, and way of life. I was around people who lived a very different life than me and grew up in an entirely different culture. At first, I did not understand things they did or their ways and even questioned why I was even there. After being around people and trying my best to see their reasoning for things, learn about their way of life, cultures, and beliefs I certainly changed my mind. I grew to appreciate differences. I think everyone should have the chance to travel somewhere and learn this way and our world would be a much better place. We might have much more peace and understanding internationally.
  • I studied abroad for my bachelor’s degree. I was away from home and needed to make friends. I had mainly grown up as an introvert and did not mind much because I always had family members around who would interact with me no matter what. While abroad I realized that it is very easy to get and stay lonely so I worked hard to interact with those around me and make friends. I needed to get out of my comfort zone and exhibit extrovert characteristics. This experience has helped me in the workplace as an adult.
  • When I was a Junior in college, I studied abroad in Spain. The most important thing that I learned while abroad was to embrace new experiences by coming out of my shell. I tend to stick to myself and often shy away from things that force me to speak to strangers or be outside of my comfort zone. Being abroad with people I don’t know and speaking a language that is not my native tongue provided me the much-needed opportunity to put myself out there and build not only my language skills and love of travel but my self-confidence too.
  • I learned a lot about the local geography of Israel. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know all of the new students I was traveling with. And I learned to love a new country.
  • The most important thing I learned from studying abroad was being independent, being away from how taught me so much. Being in a completely new country and having no one is like starting from scratch, from riding the subway to talking to other people, everything’s different. It taught me to be on my own and learn things out of my comfort zone, even if I didn’t want to I had to.
  • The most important thing I learned when studying abroad was surprisingly about my home country, the United States. I gave me a lens in which to see the US and for the first time considering that my surroundings were not just normal or the way things were. It gave me a way to consider my cultural surroundings and how they shaped me instead of just seeing it all as normal.
  • I learned to love what I don’t understand one of the most lessons I took away from it was that I learned to love what I didn’t understand. I learned to appreciate the unseen depth. I learned to value impermanence to take risk. I learned how to survive my own and how I manage our money healthfully.
  • I had the amazing opportunity of studying for 4 weeks in Spain. I learned the Spanish language in an intensive course in which I had to learn 50 new words every day. Other than learning the language, the most important thing I learned during that month of the study was how to get along with people in an entirely different culture than mine. There were times that it wasn’t easy because some of the people I met were sort of negative about “tourists” and treated me as such. But most of the folks I met, particularly in the classroom, were lovely to spend time with, and I’m still in touch with some of them to this day.
  • I learned that people are not prejudiced because of your skin but are more so curious about your roots and why you chose to visit their country. My experience was very eye-opening and life-changing. I met so many people who let me into their space and guided me, informing me about their country’s rich history.
  • Universities abroad tend to have oral exams at the end of the semester that determines pass/fail, as opposed to a series of written exams during the semester followed by one final exam, which is characteristic of American universities. I find the American system easier. It is intimidating being asked questions on the spot and if you don’t know something, it is really obvious and hard to fudge. In the U.S. I could just do a statistics exam and get a grade. Abroad I had to present the answer and then demonstrate that I understand the formula and theory behind it. The professor can ask you anything course-related.
  • When I studied abroad, I learned how to communicate with others easily. I learned how to communicate with body language. I learned how to be bold and survive in an independent person.
  • While studying abroad in Spain, a new world of different cultures opened up for me. I made friends and acquaintances from all over the world and learned about a lot of different cultures and traditions that I did not know back home. I think the most important thing that I learned abroad was how diverse the cultures and people are and despite all that diversity, the problems and happiness are shared and common among all.
  • Studying abroad was an amazing multi-cultural experience that enabled me to meet with other students from various parts of the world. I learned to manage the day to day affairs independently, which increased my confidence and self-reliance. Staying away from home made me realize the true importance of parents and siblings.
  • I traveled abroad to study Mexican/Central American Indigenous cultures. It was one of the best experiences I ever had. Being able to assimilate in a foreign land is not an easy feat; however, if you have a passion to learn and respect for other cultures— as I do, it can make the transition seamless. After coming back to my homeland I stayed in touch with people I met abroad and planned for another visit! I never got around to going back, but it is definitely on my bucket list. This abroad experience was over 15 years ago and the memories I have from that time feel like it was just yesterday. Those times are so vivid in my mind and I can’t wait to go back one day!
  • A new place with all the new environments gave me a lot of things to handle myself and self preparing for accepting all the foreign exposures. As remembering my working hours, the references with all key person in my department helped me a lot to finish my course. Particularly after your results, looking for the perfect opportunity or seeking for an internship is the factual part of the study abroad, I got help with my coordinator reference and placement facilities. It’s always good to fill your study time with good referring people and recommenders.
  • For my study abroad program, I had gone to Spain for a semester. This was my first time away from home with people I didn’t know and it was really hard for me to call home often because of the time difference. Since I was used to keeping to myself and keeping to my friends while I was at home, it was really hard at first to adjust to this change. However, I realized that I wasn’t the only one feeling homesick and bonded with a girl who shared my feelings. Together we explored various parts of Spain together and while we were there, we each found distinctive spots that reminded us of our home and our culture, which showed me that in unfamiliar situations, the most important thing I could do is find a piece of home, whether that’s in other people or in the spaces I occupy. I also learned that I needed to get comfortable with being uncomfortable if I want to make the most out of my experiences.
  • The most important thing I learned is that you can make your home anywhere. I met the most amazing people in a bookshop near my hostel, and I still dream of it. You can do so many things if you just dare.
  • The most important thing I learned while studying abroad was that all humans are more relatable and connected than we think. Both us and the Spanish students were afraid that there might be cultural differences that make people think we’re weird, but we all got along really well and the Italian students were excited to show me their food and culture. I think it was important to learn about a different country’s history and how to communicate with people who live completely differently than me.
  • I got to meet and befriend many kids of various ethnic backgrounds and cultures. This helped broaden my cultural experiences and appreciation for diversity, which helped contribute to who I am today as a military AF officer.
  • The world is bigger than I thought. There are many different cultures out there. The united states are not perfect but I appreciate it for what it is.
  • Studying abroad may be one of the most beneficial experiences for me. By studying abroad, I have the opportunity to study in a foreign nation and take in the allure and culture of new land. Here are some reasons that I study abroad! By studying abroad, you will experience a brand-new country with incredible new outlooks, customs, and activities. The benefits of studying abroad include the opportunity to see new terrains, natural wonders, museums, and landmarks of your host nation. Another reason you might consider studying abroad is for the chance to experience different styles of education. By enrolling in a study abroad program, you’ll have the chance to see a side of your major that you may not have been exposed to at home.

If you are thinking of participating in a study abroad program, don’t forget to check out the ultimate study abroad packing list. If you are struggling to learn Spanish before your study abroad program starts, head on over to the best free Spanish audiobooks for beginners, or check out how to learn Spanish in the car.