Students have traveled abroad to study with WVU programs for almost one hundred years. Programs have differed in length, means of transportation, destination, subjects of study, participants, and goals. Even as one begins the process of thinking about study abroad there are already unconscious motives about WHY studying abroad is something one should do. Studying in another country and culture is
the best way to gain knowledge of that place. Nothing besides the experience itself will teach the nuances of cultural norms, expectations, and perspectives. Many students find that they cannot specifically articulate why they want to study abroad except to say that they want to “travel, see how others live, and compare the new experiences with those at home.”
Many students find more practical reasons for studying abroad, such as learning a new language or perfecting language skills already obtained. Study abroad can enrich an academic background by giving you the opportunity to take courses not available at home or by learning through another country’s approach to education. Not all places in the world view education, learning, and knowledge the way we do in the United States. Some young people perceive an international experience as a way to gain a competitive edge in the employment marketplace. Study abroad can enhance your coping skills, flexibility, and ability to deal with stress and ambiguity. In addition to the specific knowledge you gain about another country and culture, having an international study experience says that you are able to go beyond your own personal comfort zone and that you are not afraid to be challenged. Finally, regardless of the reason you choose to study abroad, one result that seems to happen to everyone is that you learn more about yourself than you ever imagined. Regardless of why you think you want to study abroad, the results are always profound and varied and usually undetectable for a while.
