During college, going abroad is mandatory at some universities and optional at others. A semester outside Germany often lasts several months. As destinations for a semester abroad, students in Germany choose countries all over the world. While some go to England or Ireland for just a few months, others choose countries such as China or Mexico for their time abroad. There are quite a few benefits of a semester abroad.

Benefits of a semester abroad

Benefits at a glance:

  • Learning a new language
  • New friends and social contacts
  • Personal growth & broader horizons
  • Better career prospects

Learning a Foreign Language and Independence

During a semester abroad, you first and foremost learn a new foreign language. Foreign languages are becoming more and more important in today's working life. More and more jobs nowadays ask for knowledge of another language. While a foreign language is also taught at your own university in Germany, it is far more effective and promising to be taught a language up close abroad. Since everyone in the country of your semester abroad speaks that language, it is much easier to learn. You also speak the language with friends, so your skills improve fast.

You also develop and strengthen your independence during a stay abroad. When you live abroad, you leave your comfort zone. You live in a new way and learn to run your life on your own. While you have to do the grocery shopping alone, you also have to cook alone and generally stand on your own two feet. On top of that, you need to approach new people and make new friends accordingly. That requires coming out of your shell. In the process your character develops and you practice standing on your own. You can't fall back on the help and support of friends or parents.

Benefits of a semester abroad

More Benefits: New Acquaintances and Cultures

Further benefits of a semester abroad include getting to know new cultures and new people. Abroad, you experience a new culture over an extended period. People in other countries behave differently and value different behaviors. In addition, cultural differences broaden your horizons. You also meet new people abroad who, in the best case, become lifelong friends. Finding new friends makes it easier to get started in your semester abroad. That way you understand the local culture faster and more easily.

You can also meet other international students abroad. That way you can learn about other countries. Friendships from your semester abroad may also last for many years. A friend in another country may still open up career opportunities years later. A semester abroad also looks excellent on your résumé. Time spent abroad can help in later job applications.