In today’s difficult economic time, it’s natural to rethink your goal of studying abroad. Does the benefit outweigh the cost? The answer, in fact, is yes, when you look at the road ahead.
When the economy becomes more challenged, competition for the workforce increases, and employers look for employees with the best credentials(资历). Having an overseas degree — from a university where strong English skills are required — can make all the difference. The added expertise of a foreign degree, along with more cultural experience, can make you more qualified for many jobs.
A 50-year study of 3, 400 students shows that studying abroad is usually a defining moment in a young person’s life and continues to impact the participant’s life for years after the experience.
82% said that they acquired skills that influenced their career path. 70% stated that it ignited(点燃)an interest in a career direction that they pursued after the experience.
And the effect on one’s career can be equally strong. A study by the Queensland, Australia government showed: 61% of employers stated overseas studying experience was positive on a graduate resume. 72% of employers felt that a second language made a graduate a more attractive employee.
Still, there’s the question of how to pay for studying overseas. But the cost doesn’t have to be as high as you think. Scholarships may be available to cover some or all of these costs. And, there are plenty of ways to further offset(抵消)the cost — through financial tips, advice and grants(补助金).
