Studying Abroad Can Still Be An Option as a Grad Student

As a grad student at NYU, there are countless opportunities that NYU offers students. From free admissions to museums, to discounts on tickets to various events, NYU encourages students to make their graduate study experience a memorable one. But another way in which NYU provides a memorable graduate experience is by offering study abroad programs. NYU prides itself on being an gloabl university and has the highest number of international students of any US institution. With study abroad locations all over the world, NYU wants students to learn about a culture different from their own because of the great benefits that come from having a more global mindset. When I was applying to grad school, I knew I wanted to attend a university that had a strong international community where I could learn about different cultures and languages. Now that I am almost done with my first year at NYU, I have come up with 6 reasons why you should consider studying abroad as a graduate student

1. It will look good on your resume

Let’s face it, the job market today is competitive and you have to really stand out to employers to land that dream job. There are many people studying in your same field that want that job as much as you do! A way to stand out from your competitors can be your study abroad experience. It will provide with a great conversation starter during your interview and will provide a platform where you can discuss what you learned during the experience. Immersing yourself in a new culture shows that you are open to learning new things and aren’t afraid to step out of your comfort zone.

2. You will gain great experience

Study away programs will introduce you to countless of experiences you may not have access to in a regular classroom setting. Living in a new country canl help you learn more about the population, culture, and possibly a unique issue that your class may be focused on. Being present in the country you are researching will expand your knowledge and provide context that you wouldn't gain otherwise--- you can live it instead of just reading about it!

3. Friendships

Meeting new people and making friends isn't just for undergrads. Grad school provides a space for you to meet people within your program that may some day become your colleagues. But unless you are proactive about meeting students from different programs, it can be challenging to meet people with academic interests different than your own. Study abroad programs form groups of students that are interested in the same country or unique issue which can help to expand your network at NYU. The shared experience of going abroad together can form tight bonds for life. 

4. You can study a new language

Preparing for your time abroad can be filled with thoughts of uncertainty as you prepare to immerse yourself in a culture different from your own. But this also allows you to learn or brush up on a new language. Learning the native language of the country isn’t required, but if you'd like to have a general understanding of the language, the time leading up to your flight is a great window to learn! A great resource at NYU is the free language learning courses called Speaking Freely. These noncredit courses are a great opportunity to learn the basics  or brush up on your skills without the pressure of a letter grade.

5. You can earn credit

Depending on the program, your study abroad class can count as credit towards your degree. This is great news for someone that wants to study away, but doesn’t want it to interfere with the amount of time it will take to graduate. Talk to your advisor about how you can study away without it disrupting your degree completion timeline 

6. You can take a course from a different NYU school or program

Unless you are a student at the Gallatin School of Individualized Study, you may have very many opportunities to take courses outside of your school. The nice thing about study away programs is that most cases, you can take courses from NYU schools other than your own. For example, I am a student at the School of Professional Studies, but I'm considering taking a course offered through the Wagner School of Public Service that fits my interests. 

I love that NYU makes it possible for graduate students to have a study abroad experience. If you're thinking about doing study away, be sure to check with your advisor and confirm it’s a possibility for you.