We at Carlos V Language School in Seville - and
yours truly as a former exchange student and foreign intern - have long known
that travels, studies and internships abroad are absolutely enriching experiences and that everyone should spend a
longer period studying, living and/or working in another country at some point
in their lives. But now we have it in writing: The Spanish State Secretary of
Education, Vocational Training and Universities, Marcial Marín, confirmed
during a festive act within the Erasmus+ program on Monday that the
unemployment rate amongst former Erasmus participants is 23% lower than that of
people who haven't spent time abroad.
Employers
all over Europe and of course the participants themselves can only confirm
this: People who spent time abroad during their education are more open-minded,
creative and solution-oriented. They adapt better to new situations and don't
shy away from difficulties and intercultural differences. Communicativeness is
one of the greatest strengths, which helps them stand out against competitors
in selection processes and convince companies, clients and business partners.
Furthermore,
people who have lived abroad as exchange students, interns, volunteers or au
pairs have lots of exciting stories to tell. This makes them interesting,
friendly and social people who everyone likes to be around. So a stay abroad
has a positive impact on one's social surroundings. While living in another
country, of course there can be tensions, cultural shocks, misunderstandings
and problems. But these can be overcome through open communication and
collaboration, teaching the participants to deal with difficult situations.
Apart
from the social competences or soft skills, exchange students also acquire
specific professional or academic skills which they wouldn't have access to in
their home country. Foreign universities often employ different teaching and
research methods, and foreign companies use different machines, devices and
programs and have a different work culture. Your resume is definitely improved
by a foreign experience.
A great way abroad are organized exchange programs
like Erasmus+. This program organizes mobilities for European students,
apprentices, pupils and teachers. If you want to start slow, you can check out
language travel. With these, you learn a language and discover the culture and
customs of the country. Whatever you choose, a stay abroad is always a great
idea!
