Here are seven reasons why you should study abroad, from a current York exchange student

It’s that time of year when applications to study abroad are open. November is up there with the most stressful uni month: your deadlines are approaching, you barely see daylight, and the added stress of applying for an exchange year might push you over the edge. At least it’s nearly over, thank god.

It can feel daunting and unfamiliar, with the easier option probably being to stick with your final year and graduate. But taking an additional year to study abroad may become the best decision you have made so far. The chance to experience new cultures, make international friends and study different subjects will not only enhance your CV, but completely change your student experience for the better. Here’s seven reasons why you should consider it, or get excited for it next year!

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1. You get to feel like a fresher again

Do you ever miss the experience of being a new student: little stress, exploring new topics, and your main focus being to try new activities? Studying abroad allows you to relive that excitement, whilst being in a different country. Sounds pretty good to me. 

2. A cheaper way to live abroad

Even though you have to pay for flights to your exchange country, the fact that you’re a student means that you’re likely to live in cheaper student accommodation. It’s a chance to experience living abroad without the financial burden of expensive housing. Of course, this depends on which country you end up going to, but based on experience, student houses are much cheaper than private ones.  

3. The chance to travel

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While you are living abroad, it may be cheaper to travel to neighbouring countries than it would be from England. I never thought my usual week off uni would include a last minute coach ride to Copenhagen or a cheap flight to Germany. For Europe in particular, the transport links between many countries make it affordable and easy to travel at the last minute.

4. Making international friends

One of the best benefits is the friendships you make. Based on my experience, exchange universities put time and effort into international events to ensure that exchange students feel welcomed and settled in. I never thought this time last year that I would have friends from Australia, the Netherlands, and even some more from England! When else will you have the chance to be introduced to so many international students? Plus, when you travel in the future, you may have a free place to stay…

5. Study new subjects

Studying abroad may allow you to study new subjects that you’ve never had the chance to study before. These new concepts and ways of teaching may even influence your future career goals – always best to be thinking about your post-graduate plan.

6. Looks great on your CV

Who doesn’t love a bit of experience to add to your CV? Explaining that you have studied abroad will certainly put you above the average student. It shows that you’re adventurous, independent, and not afraid to go out of your comfort zone – qualities which most employers look for.

7. Being a student for longer!

Possibly one of the best benefits – you get to stay in your student bubble for longer. If you are afraid to become a real adult and start a full-time job (me), studying abroad can be the perfect way to delay that. Of course, don’t make this your only reason, but keep it in mind! York will still be here waiting for you to get back…