6 Ways Studying in the US Boosts Your Career Prospects
While there are many things to consider when deciding which university to attend, I’m sure that employability is one of the first things that cross your mind. In particular, students who study abroad take this factor into account.
We know that US education programs are becoming increasingly culturally open and immersive. But what about finding a fulfilling and well-paying job after graduation?
As a result, more opportunities are available
International students agree that the effort they put into studying abroad and adapting to a new educational system has a lot of benefits after all. The Institute of International Education published a survey in 2014 that found nearly 90% of study abroad graduates were employed within six months of graduation.
While it may seem difficult at first to adapt to and evolve within a different educational system and learning approach, once you manage to do so, you realize that you can achieve anything once you put your mind to it. Moreover, according to a study of Erasmus students, international students have better career prospects and employment skills than 70% of all students.
- You become more independent and confident as a result
Developing your ability to be flexible and react independently to changing circumstances or environments is a very important value for employers when you study abroad.
After having successfully experienced new cultures and interacted with people who have a different way of seeing life, you will learn more about yourself and the world, becoming more confident in yourself and your abilities. The experience shapes your personality, reveals your strengths and weaknesses, and helps you develop your skills and abilities.
As a result, you are able to acquire the skills that employers are looking for
An employer may be looking for graduates with skills and experience gained through study abroad programs. According to a 2014 study, 92% of employers value transversal skills such as curiosity, problem-solving, tolerance, and self-confidence. These personality traits were found to be more prevalent among international students, according to the report.
According to employers, having international experience is highly valued in the recruitment process. In fact, 64% of those surveyed reported giving candidates with an international background more professional responsibility. This type of experience can typically be obtained through studying abroad, particularly in a culturally and professionally diverse country like the United States. As mentioned earlier, being far from home requires individuals to make independent decisions and manage their own life, skills that are valuable when preparing for a job.
In addition, it improves your cross-cultural skills
Studying in the US will give you the chance to interact with people from different cultures on a daily basis, since it is the world’s leading destination for international students. As you will be living on campus, you will quickly meet new people, make friends, and build international networks.
It is imperative to gain cultural awareness and the ability to work effectively with people from different backgrounds in the modern workplace, which is increasingly global.
- It helps you work well with others
In addition to broadening your cultural horizons, this experience will teach you to be tolerant, adaptable, and empathic.
As already mentioned, you will probably have to interact with people from all kinds of backgrounds while studying in the US, which will strengthen your ability to work in a team and even give you the chance to explore your leadership abilities. You’re sure to benefit from this ability because successful companies all over the world need young people who are flexible and can be a valuable part of a team.
- It improves your English fluency
Having fluency in English is highly desirable in today’s competitive job market. You can learn English in your own country, but if you want to become truly fluent and get out of your comfort zone, you should consider living in a country where English is the primary language.
You will improve your vocabulary and gain a deeper understanding of the language by participating in courses in English and interacting with native English speakers every day. It is true that there are many young students who are capable of speaking English, but only a small number of them actually demonstrate proficiency in it, and you could be one of them.
In addition, future employers will definitely view your time abroad as an important asset. This article only touches on a few of the benefits of studying abroad, but you should definitely consider your options if you wish to study abroad.
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