So, you’re finishing school and wondering what’s next. Work? Gap year? More studies? It’s a big choice and it will shape your future in many ways. Studying abroad is an excellent option for this transitional time in your life. It's all about growing in ways that actually matter in today’s world. And it’s one of the best ways to prepare you for the real world after higher education.
Seven Things that Study Abroad Life Gives You
Here are seven things that you can achieve by simply spending a semester or two abroad or choosing to do your bachelor’s degree or graduate program in Europe, Asia or anywhere globally.
You'll See the World Beyond the Algorithm
You may think you know a lot about the world from the images and videos you see online. But nothing compares to real-life experience. Living and learning abroad allows you to experience all the sights, sounds, tastes, and exciting activities that different cultures do best, firsthand.
Studying abroad also challenges your assumptions and opens your mind — and open-mindedness is a quality that you will benefit greatly from in our hyper-connected and often polarized world.
“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness.” — Mark Twain
Build Adaptability (aka Your Real Superpower)
The world is changing fast with new technology, shifting jobs, and global crises. Being adaptable and culturally aware isn’t a bonus anymore; it’s survival. Studying abroad throws you into new situations where you’ll learn how to navigate change with confidence.
It’s also a good way to soft-launch your international career and lifestyle, as it gives you a chance to move to a new location under the umbrella of support and community that comes with joining a new university or business school.
"Global employers increasingly value soft skills like adaptability, cross-cultural communication, and resilience — all of which are built through international experience."
— WEF Future of Jobs Report 2023
Master a New Language (or Two or Three!)
Some people think that we won’t need to learn new languages in a few years, given the rise of AI communication tools. And yes, AI can translate — but it can’t replace a real human connection.
Learning a new language while being immersed in that culture is very different from studying languages in a classroom or online setting. Immersion blends language learning with the natural social processes of everyday life, and it’s pretty much the only way to achieve fluency. It’s also a major advantage in today’s globalized workforce to have at least two or three languages on your resumé.
"76% of students reported that studying abroad helped them develop skills that influenced their career path." — Institute of International Education, IIE Open Doors 2023
Stand Out in a Global Job Market
Remote work, global teams, start-ups with clients everywhere — the workplace has gone international. Employers want people with real intercultural skills, not just stamps in a passport. Studying abroad shows that you’ve curiosity, courage, and a global mindset.
In fact, students who study abroad are twice as likely to land a job within six months after graduation compared to those who don’t (IES Abroad Outcomes Survey).
Learn to Rely on Yourself (and When to Ask for Help)
Studying abroad means figuring things out for yourself, from public transportation to healthcare, and learning when to lean on others.
Let’s compare: If you go to a local college and visit home every weekend to do your laundry and raid the refrigerator, then you’ve still got your parents to lean on for pretty much everything. If you go far away from home, then you spread your wings and become more resourceful and resilient. It's a fast track to independence and emotional intelligence. It’s worth its weight in gold for your future “adulting” skills, and it jumpstarts your career.
One research study shows that students who studied abroad earned 25% higher starting salaries than those who didn’t, which equates to roughly USD $7,000 more per year—potentially adding up to around $567,500 in extra earnings over a typical career.
Make Friends (and Connections) Worldwide
Your study-abroad classmates and friends aren’t just great for your social life — they’re your future network. Whether it’s personal or professional, having global contacts opens doors you didn’t even know existed.
Worried about fitting in? You’re not alone — and that’s exactly why international schools like EHL build strong, diverse communities and have student-led committees that organize sports and cultural activities. With classmates from many different nationalities, it’s easy to meet people who understand what it’s like to be far from home.
Campuses often host cultural clubs, language groups, and international events that make it easier to find friends, share your culture, and even enjoy familiar foods. Whether it’s through student life activities or simple everyday connections, you’ll discover that feeling at home abroad happens faster than you think.
Gain a Forward-Thinking Perspective — And Use It to Make a Difference
Studying abroad isn’t just about adapting to new cultures — it’s about understanding global challenges like sustainability, innovation, and social impact from different viewpoints. This experience can help you bring fresh ideas, skills, and perspectives back home, making you part of the generation that leads change, whether in business, your community, or the world.
Conclusion: Yes, Studying Abroad has Great Benefits!
Now that you know the benefits of studying abroad, you might be wondering what the drawbacks are. Is it difficult, expensive, or dangerous? Why isn’t everyone doing it?
The truth is that studying abroad just requires a little extra planning and some courage, because today’s study-abroad options are more flexible than ever.
From scholarships to hybrid study paths and campuses in safe, student-friendly cities, you can find an option that fits your budget and values...and reassure your parents or sponsors about your safety and their investment. Here’s how:
How to Choose a Study Abroad Destination
Choosing where to study abroad isn’t just about picking a cool place on the map — it’s about finding a destination that fits your goals, values, and budget.
Here are a few things to think about:
Affordability
Tuition, housing, and daily expenses vary widely depending on the country and city. Some destinations may have higher living costs but offer top-ranked education and strong career opportunities, while others might be more budget-friendly with solid academic programs. Don’t forget to explore scholarships, work-study options, and student perks. Tools like the QS Best Student Cities 2025 can help you compare costs and student satisfaction.
Safety
A destination’s safety record matters, but it’s also worth looking into student support services, local healthcare access, and community networks. Global safety indexes like the Global Peace Index 2024 offer helpful comparisons, but personal well-being also depends on how supported you feel on campus and in your host community.
Sustainability
If climate impact and environmental responsibility are priorities for you, research countries and universities known for green policies, sustainable urban development, or environmental innovation. Resources like the Yale Environmental Performance Index can give you a clearer picture of how different countries rank on sustainability.
Cultural Fit & Diversity
Consider a destination where you’ll feel both welcomed and inspired. Cities with diverse student populations and vibrant cultural scenes make it easier to connect with people from all over the world and experience new perspectives — both inside and outside the classroom.
Career Opportunities
Does the country or city link you to industries or sectors you care about? Whether your interests lie in business, tech, creative industries, or hospitality, studying in a region with strong industry connections can help you build your network and gain practical experience. Check out reports like the WEF Global Competitiveness Report for insights on economic strengths by country.
Social Impact & Values
If you're like most students today, you want to join a university that aligns with your personal values — whether that’s social justice, community engagement, sustainability, or ethics. To find what you're looking for, you'll need to explore the school’s mission, its community initiatives, DEI policies, and the level of activity in its alumni network, which is instrumental in making a positive impact.
Final Thoughts: Where You Study Matters
Now that we’ve explored how studying abroad can open your mind, build your skills, and boost your career, you have all the facts and tips to make an informed decision. But choosing the right school and location isn't just about facts, it's about feelings and dreams. You'll want to pick a study abroad destination and institution that suits your vision for your future life and career.
That's why we encourage you to consider EHL, where students get a unique mix of global exposure, vibrant international communities, and world-class hospitality business education - all in destinations known for innovation, opportunity, and cultural diversity.
With campuses in Switzerland and Singapore, EHL offers more than a degree; it’s a gateway to real-world experience, industry connections, and a global network of peers and professionals. Whether you're passionate about business, entrepreneurship, or creating unforgettable guest experiences, EHL puts you at the heart of where it all happens.
