Learning a second language exposes you to varied modes of thinking and communicating, inspiring curiosity, empathy, and understanding. Plus, being multilingual extends and improves your career prospects.

And, even if you aren’t looking to pick up a foreign language, you still stand to gain a ton of intercultural communication skills. You’ll learn how to code switch, using the slang, idioms, and styles of communicating that make sense within different English-speaking cultures and contexts.

Studying abroad can help college and job applications stand out. In our interconnected world, the ability to work with people from different cultures and countries is a major advantage. Research has shown that recent grads who studied abroad are more likely to graduate from university on time, get a job within a year of graduating, and earn higher salaries. Even if you don’t go on to work in an international field, you will be better equipped to collaborate and lead as workplaces become more diverse and emerging industries and innovations demand more flexible thinking.

You’re sure to see some stunning sights. But, AFSers usually most appreciate the amazing people, the host families, volunteers, teachers, and other exchange students, that became permanent parts of their lives.

Sometimes the best way to learn about yourself is to get outside yourself. As you learn about different cultures, you’ll come to see your own from a new viewpoint. You can start to appreciate how cultures define what’s “normal” or “obvious”. Reflecting on how cultural backgrounds shape how you perceive, think, feel, and act is shown to help clarify your sense of self, building confidence and promoting clear-headed decision-making.