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By Emelia Imperati and Cassie Paolillo
Photo by Authors
Across the spectrum of undergraduate studies, studying abroad can positively impact all majors. From marketing to humanities and art, there is something to take away from each international experience.
According to NAFSA, a worldwide association of international studies, the amount of American students participating in global education increased 3.8% in the 2015-2016 academic year, demonstrating how the number of students climbed to 325,399. This demographic shows that students are taking a greater interest in international studies, gaining the benefits of both career and personal development. In terms of personal enhancement, study abroad programs provide the opportunity for individuals to gain a greater sense of independence and intercultural knowledge. As a result, one can develop a greater range of diverse connections within cultures and relationships. Employers also place studying abroad in high esteem, as it reflects motivation, drive and ambition. It diversifies work experience, creating a higher chance of success in the current global work force. The advantages of studying abroad are applicable to any undergraduate wanting to boost their resume and gain a worldwide perspective on their future career path.
Reaping the rewards of studying abroad is possible not only for those majoring in a specific language or culture, but all concentrations. For instance, Abigail Rothman, who is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts at The College of New Jersey in the United States, is studying at Florence University of the Arts this fall semester. She claims, in comparison to her home university, studying art in another country is imperative to any educational experience. According to Abigail, “actually seeing the work in person where it currently exists today, in the context of architecture, is an incredible opportunity. Having learned about sites and artwork in school, such as the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Birth of Venus and countless others does not compare to witnessing them in person, where I could see the size, the paint strokes, and other details that don’t show up in photographs. It changed the way I view that portion of history.”
As seen through Abigail’s experience, global studies have positively influenced her interpretation of art history in a different country. Receiving an international education goes beyond the four walls of a classroom, arising also in daily occurrences. Overall, the intangible impact of studying abroad has repeatedly been shown to straighten knowledge, improve resumes and implement greater self-reliance.