Every study abroad student knows that while overseas the primary focus is about experiences, which overshadow the academic aspects. Be that as it may, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. The genuine learning takes place on the streets of the country you’re in, not the classroom.
While that might encourage some students who are tempted to study abroad, it’s crucial to recognize how many lessons could be learned out in the world, making it truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. More students at JMU should seize the opportunity to study abroad, as the life lessons taught can be so much more significant than anything learned within four classroom walls.
The conventional concept of studying abroad usually revolves around lectures, exams and academic achievements. While this is mainly what my parents focused on during my study abroad, the essence of this experience transcends the realms of textbooks and standardized tests.
Lauren Oudine, a junior dietetics major and Italian minor, recently returned from her study abroad in Reggio Calabria, Italy. She said the most profound lessons emerged from experiencing the food, learning to effectively use Italian, embracing moving around the globe and stepping out of her comfort zone when adjusting to the culture. Oudine said the most difficult part of her study abroad was leaving such a simple and genuine lifestyle behind when she returned.
An extensive 2022 study conducted by Frontiers, The Interdisciplinary Journal of Study Abroad, sheds light on both the benefits and complications associated with global and academic learning. While academic achievements are obviously a large part of the equation, the study shows the development of essential life skills through exposure to diverse perspectives. Oudine’s personal experiences only echo these findings, emphasizing how lessons were learned and created through everyday encounters such as going to authentic restaurants or simply making new friends in the region.
Another study conducted in 2013 explored students’ immersion experiences and focused more on the cultural engagement aspect of studying abroad. It’s not simply about attending classes and taking tests — it’s about actively participating in the local community, forming connections and immersing yourself in the daily life of another culture. Oudine resonated with this idea, recounting the richness of Italian food culture.
“They just go when they need food, and there’s not a big selection,” Oudine said. “It just is what it is, and it’s very simple and they value it a lot. And I love it.”
The values of these real-life lessons extend far beyond the immediate study abroad experience. It’s something you learn to appreciate the older you get because, unlike your general education English 222 class, for example, there is wisdom you’re more likely to hold on to.
Things like adaptability, learned while studying abroad when navigating unfamiliar environments, are valuable assets in a constantly changing atmosphere. Studying abroad doesn’t just look good to future employers for no reason. The ability to communicate across cultural and possibly even language barriers and demonstrate success in the face of challenges pushes you far ahead of your peers in a competitive job market and in life.
Traditional education styles build a foundation of knowledge while the study abroad experience offers a unique curriculum of life lessons. Many study abroad students like Oudine start to realize the importance of gaining out-of-classroom experiences while away, traveling as much as they can. While Oudine chose not to travel outside of Italy, she did explore the country.
“Just being able to meet people from across the globe and being able to communicate with them in their language, I’m never going to have that chance in the near future, and that’s so cool,” Oudine said.
By doing this, she gained a greater appreciation for the world and the endless opportunities and friendships she could create.
While traditional academic methods undoubtedly play a role while studying abroad, the real value is in the experimental, spontaneous moments that unfold in a foreign land. As students set sail on study abroad adventures, it’s essential to approach the experience with an open mind, recognizing that the cultural, social and personal lessons are just as, if not more, significant than the academic ones.
Studying abroad will completely transform your college experience. It may not always be easy, but it’s almost always worth it. In just two weeks abroad, you could gain more applicable knowledge than in 18 years in an American school system. Not enough JMU students grasp the opportunity to study abroad, maybe because of our program options or means, but we are highly encouraged to.
This kind of adventure, where every interaction and each challenge contributes to an education and goes beyond the confines of the traditional classroom, is truly a lesson of a lifetime.