It is commonly believed that a growing number of tertiary students
to study abroad nowadays.
Although
,
this
opens significant avenues for learning and practical exposure, there is a downside to it as well.
However
, I’m inclined to believe that despite the disadvantages, the overall benefits of studying abroad are superior.
To begin
with, studying abroad opens new avenues to students, not only gives them Global exposure or
, academic advancement, and language acquisition, but
also
helps build connections to fetch them a high paying job after graduation. Owing to the top-notch education system, there is a lot of potential for research, with world class infrastructure and lab facilities.
For example
, according to the international Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, the number of international students worldwide rose from 0.8 million in 1975 to 3.7 million in 2009.
In addition
,
for Statistics finds that the number is increasing by about 12% each year.
Another advantage is that international students embody personal growth, with life experiences which helps them discover their own identity.
Although
academia is great, building up knowledge is wonderful, but what is really worth is they get to challenge themselves enough and dive into new adventures that shapes them as a person.
This
sort of
experience
helps break down cultural barriers between people of different backgrounds, teaches you a great sense of responsibility, self- motivation and help make wonderful friends. From my personal
experience
, driving liberates me. I drove about 3000 miles solo and I’ve had the best
experience
of my life.
The disadvantages,
on the other hand
, are few and comparatively less. Of course, students who go to live abroad may
experience
culture shock and language problems.
For instance
, students who want to pursue higher studies in the Europe might have to go through with
language training and even
then
, feel the pressure sometimes once they get there. Oftentimes, it is hard because we don’t have our familiar safety net of friends and family, especially in the beginning, they might feel homesick. From a very different perspective, it is
also
quite possible that international students could be targeted for espionage, as some foreign intelligence officers may target young and naïve students for their gain.
In conclusion, there are many advantages to studying abroad from the perspective of students, and
also
from the standpoint of society and the institutions themselves. The disadvantages are fewer, more minor, and in some cases a bit far-fetched.