The Impact of Studying Abroad

Welcome to my first entry in my Study Abroad Diary! A semester full of little adventures – and I’m taking you on this journey.

There are moments in a semester abroad when you suddenly realize you’re no longer just visiting. Today was one of these moments for me: I knew exactly where to go without Google Maps. This is one of many small situations that slowly creep into everyday life – it just happens. But it’s in those moments that I realize that I’m no longer just a guest in this country. I’m living, learning, and growing here. And that’s exactly what makes a semester abroad so special. But what exactly is a semester abroad, and why can it be one of the most valuable decisions in your studies?

What does it mean to do a semester abroad?

A semester abroad is the opportunity for students to study abroad for a limited time at a university. This is usually done through programs such as Erasmus+ or self-organised stays known as „free movers.“ The duration can vary from one semester to a full year of study.During this time, you attend lectures, seminars, etc., and you can often take credit for these achievements at your home university. But studying is only part of the experience – just as important is life outside the university!

Why is international experience so important? 

A semester abroad is much more than just an academic enrichment. It changes the way you think, learn, and interact with other people. Here are a few reasons why international experience could be valuable to you:

1. Personal development 

Getting by on your own in a foreign country, and especially living, can bring many challenges – from finding housing to language barriers to cultural differences. But it is precisely these challenges that foster self-reliance, adaptability, and problem-solving skills. Many students return more confident and open after their time abroad.

2. Cross-cultural competence

We live in a globalized world where intercultural understanding is becoming increasingly important. Those who study in another country not only get to know a new culture but also develop a deeper understanding of other ways of thinking and perspectives. This open, flexible approach can be beneficial in many areas of life, both professional and private.

3. Language benefits 

Even if you’re on an English-language course, a foreign language course helps to improve your language skills. Those who have to communicate in a foreign language every day – whether at university, in the supermarket, or with new friends – learn faster and more naturally than in a traditional language course.

4. Better career opportunities 

According to two studies published by the European Commission, 80 percent of Erasmus participants found employment within three months of graduating. In addition, 70 percent of respondents said that studying abroad helped them to define their career goals more clearly. Also, former Erasmus participants are almost twice as likely to work abroad as those who did not study abroad. (Source: https://www.forschung-und-lehre.de/forschung/erasmus-teilnehmer-haben-bessere-jobchancen-1790).

But why is the step into the unknown worth it now?  

A semester abroad is certainly not always easy and just beautiful, there will be moments of homesickness, language barriers, and cultural differences that can be challenging at times. But it’s those moments that make you grow. So to anyone thinking of going abroad: go for it! The world is waiting to be discovered – and a semester abroad is the perfect opportunity to take the first step.

With this article, I mark the beginning of my new article series, which hopefully awakens or strengthens your interest, especially for those who want to do a semester abroad from Bremen or the other way around, for those who have traveled from abroad to our beautiful Bremen.

If you have any questions or concerns about this series, please let us know!

See you soon and greetings from Oslo.