Studying abroad is one of the most amazing experiences you’ll ever have. It’s an incredible opportunity to learn more about other cultures, broaden your horizons, and even master a new language.
You’ll learn so many new things in your host country, but your education doesn’t have to end when your study abroad program does. Opportunities to learn are all around you, you just have to know where to find them.
Here’s are some of the best ways to keep learning after studying abroad:
Travel
The world is a classroom and there’s so much more for you to explore. Taking a gap year after university is a wonderful chance to learn more about yourself, others, and the planet.
Traveling is so much more than a holiday. You’ll hone loads of new skills that you can use to impress employers, including planning, budgeting, communication, and problem-solving.
Picking up some part-time work will also help you to establish a professional international network, and could lead to exciting career opportunities in the future.
It’s okay to take some time out after college to figure out what you want to do. There’s no point rushing and diving headfirst into a graduate scheme you don’t enjoy. Besides, the grad schemes will still be there when you return home.
Study a postgrad
If you’re hungry to learn more about your favorite subject and aren’t ready to wave goodbye to student life, then you might consider studying a postgraduate program.
There are several different types of postgraduate degrees, including taught and research master’s programs, as well as PhDs.
Postgraduate degrees are offered in almost every corner of the world, so you can continue your education no matter where you end up.
Volunteer
Volunteering is an eye-opening, rewarding, and informative experience. Whether you volunteer at home or overseas, you’ll learn about some of the most pressing issues facing communities today.
Volunteering looks fantastic on your CV and can help you develop professional skills like compassion and adaptability. But, best of all, it’s a chance to make a real difference.
Join a club
Joining a club is a great way to pick up a new skill or learn more about the hobby you’re most passionate about. Whether you want to master a new instrument, try out a sport, or star in a theater production, you’ll be learning and having fun at the same time.
Countless places around your town, like libraries, colleges, schools, or community centers probably host clubs. You can also check on local websites and social media pages.
Record your experiences
One of the best ways to reminisce about your travels abroad is to write about them. You can even try to get your stories published in magazines, newsletters, and websites. While educating others about what life’s like as an international student, you’ll be honing your craft.
If putting ideas down on paper isn’t for you, have a go at creating your own podcast. Get to grips with the latest recording techniques and invite fellow students onto the show to share their experiences.
Read
Books are one of the greatest educational tools available. They force us to see things in different ways and understand alternative points of view. They can also spark a new interest, or explain things you’ve always struggled to understand.
You can read to learn more about your chosen subject, a different area of study, or just for enjoyment. The possibilities are endless.
If you’d rather listen to a story, try audiobooks. You can listen to the latest bestseller while you’re busy with other tasks.
Follow international news
If you love international cultures, consider following or watching the news from around the world.
You can keep up to date with news from your former host country thanks to specialist news apps. You can also follow most news networks on social media.
Keep in touch with international friends
Although it’s exciting to make new friends after college, it’s important to stay in touch with your international friendship group as well.
Communicating regularly through messages, social media, or video calls will keep your language skills sharp. You’ll also be updating each other on what’s going on in different parts of the world.
Staying in regular contact means you’ll always have the opportunity to plan visits and cultural exchange trips too.