| Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that can broaden one’s horizons, expose young individuals to new cultures, and offer a unique perspective on the world. Unfortunately, many myths surrounding foreign education can discourage students from pursuing this life-changing experience or distract them from the best path ahead, whether in the course to take or college to apply to.
With the right information, students are equipped with the knowledge and confidence they need to pursue their academic and personal goals. The following are some of the most common myths and misconceptions and the truths behind them. Myth 1: Studying abroad is only for rich students One of the biggest misconceptions about studying abroad is that it is only for wealthy students. While studying abroad can be expensive, there are various ways to fund one’s education overseas, such as scholarships, grants, and student loans. Additionally, studying in certain countries can be more affordable than in others, so it’s essential to do one’s research and find the right program for their budget. Myth 2: It’s too risky to study abroad Like any new experience, studying overseas comes with its own set of risks. Nevertheless, study abroad programs usually have safety measures in place to keep students safe, such as orientation sessions, emergency protocols, and local support systems. Furthermore, studying abroad can help students develop important life skills like problem-solving, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication which may prove useful to students later in life. Myth 3: Studying abroad is only for language majors Another misconception is that studying abroad is only for language majors – or those on a humanities track. The truth is that there are various study abroad programs available across different disciplines, including business, engineering, and social sciences. Moreover, studying abroad provides a unique opportunity to learn about different cultures, which can be beneficial for any major. Myth 4: A foreign education is not valued in the job market Some people believe that the cost of foreign education often outweighs its value in the job market, but this is not entirely true. Employers often value candidates who have international experience, as it shows that they have cross-cultural skills and are adaptable to different environments. Additionally, studying abroad can help you build a global network of contacts, which can be beneficial in your career. Above all, you develop a skill set that includes both hard (technical) skills and soft (interpersonal) skills. Myth 5: Studying abroad is only for extroverts Many people assume that studying abroad is only for outgoing and extroverted individuals. However, introverted students can also benefit from studying abroad. It provides them with an opportunity to step out of their comfort zone and develop new social skills. Additionally, studying abroad can help introverted students become more independent and self-reliant, as well as open up to the new community in front of them. Myth 6: You need to speak the local language fluently to study abroad While speaking the local language can be helpful, it’s not always necessary in order to ace foreign education. Many universities offer programs in English or have language courses available to help students improve their language skills. Additionally, studying abroad can be an excellent opportunity to learn a new language and immerse yourself in a different culture. “Studying abroad is life-changing experiences that can open doors to new opportunities and perspectives. However, it’s important to help students and their families make informed decisions before embarking on this journey,” says Suneetha Qureshi, president of education management company M Square Media (MSM), which conducts pre-departure briefing sessions for students and staff internationalization workshops for faculty and staff in host universities as part of its in-country offices and student recruitment solutions. “By understanding the truths and misconceptions of studying abroad, students can take advantage of this incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and shape their future,” she adds. From M Square Media (MSM) a Canada-based education company and a leader in innovation and globalization initiatives in the international education sector |
