Studying abroad is without a doubt an incredible opportunity available for college students. Most kids are thrilled at the chance to live away from home in a foreign country for six months, meet new people, try new foods, and learn about a new culture. However, recently it has been discovered that the benefits that come from studying abroad aren't just evident in the student's education and socialization--there are emotional health benefits as well. The experience helps emotional development in numerous ways. It makes the student much more open and able to cope with change. Successfully adapting to and living amongst another culture helps their emotional stability. According to a study, students who were signed up to study abroad were "more open-minded, conscientious and extravert than their fellow students who stay at home (Zimmerman)," even before they left. After their study abroad experience, these personality traits developed even more. So if you are considering studying abroad or are a worried parent whose child wishes to study abroad, it will without a doubt be a beneficial experience to your or your child's emotional health--another perk in addition to the delicious foreign meals.
Source: http://psychcentral.com/news/2013/07/05/studying-abroad-boost-students-emotional-development/56846.html, Janice Wood
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