“I’m interested in studying abroad, but what are the benefits to attending a university in another country? 

Keiser University Associate Vice Chancellor Rhonda Fuller provides some helpful advice to prospective students who continually are fascinated, but may be slightly intimidated, to enroll in college in a foreign country rather than stay at Universities in Florida.

There are many benefits that make pursuing your entire college degree, or perhaps even just portion of your degree, beyond our nation’s borders worth considering.  Gaining an international perspective helps you grow as an employee, professional, leader, and as an individual.   Many of us learned a second language during our K-12 educational experience; however, we never had a real chance to immerse ourselves in the culture of the language or to practice what we learned through daily communication with native speakers.  Studying abroad is one easy way to gain college credits, quickly advance your very basic foreign-language speaking skills and satisfy your interest in learning about other cultures.

While pursuing your education as you explore astonishing places within the country of your choice, learning its historical settings and role in the international economy, you are likely to make lifelong friends from all around the world.   Studying abroad can give you a uniquely wonderful opportunity to expand your resume and provide you a competitive edge in the job market.  Learning overseas will provide you with the appreciation of global communities, compassion for those residing in lesser developed areas, and amazement at the vast technology in some of the world’s most modern metropolises in developed countries such as Shanghai, China.  Future employers will recognize that you can adapt to other cultures and diverse environments easily.  Employers are looking for people who are able to successfully interact with a variety of people and nationalities.  Only one percent of students in the United States choose to study abroad, but with all the benefits, more students should consider this as they explore college options.

Rhonda Fuller has over 27 years of experience in postsecondary education serving in positions from admissions counselor, director of admissions, campus president, and in her current role as Associate Vice Chancellor with Keiser University.  In her thirteenth year with Keiser University, Ms. Fuller is fond of saying that while higher education has vastly evolved throughout her career, helping students to maximize their educational experience in pursuit of their professional goals by developing innovative learning opportunities remains constant.    

The views and opinions expressed in this document are solely those of the contributing author. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Keiser University and/or the Keiser University student body and staff.