Envision yourself strolling the cobblestone streets of Florence, Italy, gelato in hand, the warm sun casting a glow on the ancient architecture. Now, imagine this was not only a picture of leisurely travel but a pivotal part of your academic journey.

This is the essence of studying abroad — it’s about breaking away from the familiar and diving into new environments where education transcends textbooks. Read on to explore the benefits of studying abroad, as well as the programs available, to discover why this opportunity may be right for you!

Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that can transform not only your educational experience, but also your personal life. There are a multitude of reasons why studying abroad might be for you. Consider these four core benefits:

1. Enhance Your Education

Arguably the most evident reason to study abroad is the impact it can have on your education and potentially your future career. Learning outside of your usual “bubble” gives you a whole new network of people to speak to, learn from and foster connections with.

Additionally, learning in a new environment and classroom setting can cultivate a new or enhanced skill set that you otherwise might not have. In more practical terms, stating your study abroad experience on a resume may indicate to future employers that you are adaptable, aware, independent, culturally sensitive and more. Studying abroad is a way to make yourself stand out from other candidates.¹

2. Experience Different Cultures

Although many resources exist today to teach you about cultures outside of your own, nothing will ever be better than physically immersing yourself in one. When studying abroad, you are naturally exposed to a country’s cuisine, social norms, language, way of living and more. Although this sometimes takes some adjusting, you may be surprised at the new habits or perspectives you pick up. Fully experiencing a new place can significantly enhance your appreciation and understanding of its culture.

Experiencing a new culture brings not only fresh knowledge, but often great enjoyment as well. Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to sightsee, engage in various exciting activities and place yourself in history.

3. Form New Friendships

You will be surrounded by other students in your classes and study abroad program who chose to embark on the same adventure as you. Already having this shared commonality opens the door to an accessible group of people to learn and travel alongside. Even if you are embarking alone on your study abroad adventure, you may leave with a handful of newborn relationships.

4. Personal Growth

Although you may find studying abroad to be a rewarding experience, you may also find that it can be intimidating and worrisome at times. However, you may surprise yourself with the growth that comes with taking the leap of faith and saying “yes” to this transformative experience. Solo traveling can produce a stronger sense of confidence and independence. You may also find you have a better grasp of your desired career path or identity.

If you are eager to make study abroad part of your academic journey, research and apply for the various study abroad programs with Grand Canyon University. A traditional program offers a summer, semester or full academic year at an approved international host university.

With GCU, you also have the chance to customize your experience by adding an internship, service-learning project, volunteer work, faith-based mission, global sight-seeing or language immersion program.

Many of these programs also offer study abroad scholarships and grants for which you can apply upon acceptance. Some of these are aimed at student athletes, students with particular academic merits, students of color, first-generation college students and many more. Scholarships can aid significantly in making the opportunity affordable and possible for you. Delve into your chosen study abroad program’s website or speak with your university counselor to discover which paths are available to you.