If you have a teenage child who is begging to do a study abroad program, you may be reluctant at first. You may wonder if they will be safe, and how it will affect your family to have them abroad. There are many things that you will need to consider before you make your decision as to whether or not they can go, however, have you considered the benefits of a study abroad? This experience could greatly impact not just their high school career but their entire life. Hence, the benefits of a study abroad should be factored into your decision.
Here are a few ways in which your teenager could be impacted by a semester or two of a study abroad.
Understand Culture
The nation that an individual was born into and grew up in greatly influences how they think and view the world. When people stay in one place for an extended period of time, they can sometimes forget or be unaware of how diverse and wonderful the world is. As a student on a study abroad, your teenager will be immersed in another culture, broadening their understanding of the world. They will likely learn to appreciate and love other cultures and people, gaining a wider breadth of how to relate to others.
Learn A Language
Depending on how long your child's study abroad program is, they could actually learn another language while they are gone. Imagine that: learning a new language within a period of 6-12 months. This skill can greatly influence and affect their future, including providing them with better job options. Many employers today are looking for bilingual employees, sometimes starting them at a higher salary to show how appreciated and needed they are in a company.
Increase Confidence
Even if your child does not learn another language, they will likely return with an increase in confidence after living in a foreign country for a semester. Living abroad on their own will help them to understand that they can do hard things and adapt. Giving your child the opportunity to study abroad can help them to really understand just what they are capable of.
In conclusion, doing a study abroad may greatly improve your teenager's current confidence and their future job opportunities. If you have the financial means or the ability to have a study abroad student in your home, you should really consider allowing them this wonderful experience.
Contact a company like A+ World Academy to learn more.
