Benefits of Studying or Working Abroad for Graduates - Essay Example

Exposure to international experience is useful as it allows for international understanding. Crossman and Clarke (2009) say that working or studying abroad allows individuals have knowledge and awareness of the issues that relate to national and global issues. The benefit of global experience is in this case, one that allows individuals to become accustomed, solve and expand their cultural scope of analyzing issues.

Through working and studying abroad, it is palpable that intercultural competence will be attained. Crossman and Clarke (2009) think that having touch with the international world allows for intercultural know-how. This competence relates to an ability to communicate well in various cultural contexts, as opposed to the usual native or indigenous context. The international curriculums set for the training institutions require an application of a singular language for all the various participants from different contexts (Crossman and Clarke, 2009). Comprehensive learning is then achieved, as the diverse persons can comprehend the need of being a people as opposed to one cultural community.

However, it is vital to note that attaining global competence is not only focused on the physical presence in countries in abroad countries but through other means like developing contacts with other individuals in these countries (Crossman and Clarke, 2009). With peer-to-peer education successful in numerous instances, Crossman and Clarke (2009) would not be wrong to argue that studying and working abroad allows for international patriotism, especially with individuals being more open-minded about issues touching on international significance.

Conclusively, it is warranted to say that working and studying abroad have a myriad of merits. An opportunity to live and interact with different cultures creates individuals that do not think and live within the confines of their native home backgrounds. Individuals both at work and school experience different cultures and with time they can adjust and appreciate the need of other persons in society. It is, therefore, recommended that individuals opt to work and study abroad, for purposes of international cultural competence. In the long run, international understanding will be achieved. Read More