Studying abroad provides numerous benefits

September 9, 2008

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — In an ever-expanding global world, a study-abroad experience could be the next big ticket to landing a dream job.

Study-abroad experiences combine different studies, professors and personalities to create a “once in a lifetime experience,” said graduate student and study-abroad participant Brian Canning.

The University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications adventure to Greece and Spain this summer was one of those experiences.

Michael Weigold, advertising professor, started the program in 2003. What began as a 13-person trip just five years ago grew to include 85 students and five professors for this year’s trip.

“We want students to say, ‘Wow, I feel differently about the world’ and ‘This was the best month of my life,’” Weigold said.

Social networking while traveling is another advantage of studying abroad, Weigold said. “Some of my students from the first trip now work in New York City, and they eat lunch together all the time.”

Studying abroad also is a great addition to a resume.

Susanne Hill, UF International Center coordinator, said that potential employers will look favorably upon someone with a study-abroad experience listed on their resume.

According to Janis Page, UF public relations and study-abroad professor, studying abroad helps students become well-rounded global citizens.

“You see things differently…It’s an exponential investment,” she said.

“In general, younger people are more idealistic and tend to be more receptive to other cultures, languages and points of view,” said Brad Pick, a Barcelona public relations practitioner for Edelman PR. “Their eagerness to absorb and apply new experiences makes them better candidates when they enter the labor market – and are just more well-rounded individuals in general.

“Follow your passions, your dreams. If you want to live and work overseas, take action to make sure it happens,” Pick said.