Studying abroad often invites admiration and sparks a high opinion about an individual’s level of independence, cultural exposure, and educational prowess. However, it’s essential to remember that studying abroad experience does not automatically equate to superior character or personal growth.

The Realities of Studying Abroad

Successfully studying abroad does indicate certain financial means or favorable circumstances, but it reveals little about an individual’s character, personal challenges, or personal growth. These aspects can only be perceived by understanding the nuances of the individual’s time abroad.

While international studies may enhance a CV, it doesn’t necessarily reflect the true character of a person. A common misconception lies in believing that studying abroad students are superior, which can often be fueled by the students themselves.

Reality Check:

If your weekends are spent draining your finances on manga, band merchandise, clubbing, and fashion, your perception of being independent, responsible, and grown-up might need a reality check. Surprisingly enough, living oceans away doesn’t stop some students from being dependent on parents, spouses, or other students.

Living in a foreign land with a distinct culture doesn’t automatically impart cultural sensitivity or education. Ironically, I’ve encountered more ill-informed, biased individuals amongst classmates and study abroad students in Japan, compared to my experiences in five other countries or during my international travels.

Being Culturally Sensitive is a Conscious Effort:

Many students studying abroad often fall into the trap of being critics of the host nation’s customs and society, refusing to adapt and even blatantly maligning the culture.

So, it’s essential not to perceive study abroad students as the epitome of human knowledge simply because they survived a semester or two in an unfamiliar location – be it Japan, Italy, England, Egypt, or elsewhere.

Being Informed vs Being Ignorant:

It’s possible that studying abroad could expose you to more narrow-minded individuals than you’d encounter back home. Conversely, it’s also true that many individuals positively change and grow during their time abroad.

Just like a coin, there is always more than one side.

The Final Call is Yours

Whether studying or traveling abroad changes you for the better or worse, well, that’s entirely up to you. It is your experiences and reactions to them that determine how the world and society shape you. Embrace an open approach rather than closing off to the incredible diversity that the world offers.