Global Engagement Office (GEO)

Studying abroad offers a myriad of benefits that extend beyond the confines of traditional academic pursuits. One of the most prominent advantages is the opportunity for personal and cultural growth. Living in a foreign country exposes students to diverse perspectives, customs, and traditions, fostering a heightened sense of global awareness and adaptability. The experience encourages individuals to step out of their comfort zones, promoting independence and resilience. Moreover, studying abroad provides a unique chance to enhance language skills, as immersion in a new environment facilitates a natural and practical approach to language acquisition.

Beyond the classroom, students can build international networks and establish connections that may prove invaluable in their future careers. Additionally, the exposure to different educational systems broadens one’s intellectual horizons, encouraging critical thinking and a more comprehensive understanding of global issues. Overall, studying abroad is a transformative experience that not only enriches academic knowledge but also shapes well-rounded, culturally sensitive individuals poised for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

Academic Goals

No matter what your major or area of interest, studying abroad has enormous academic benefits:

• Gain critical thinking skills through exposure to different cultures and perspectives.
• Create and foster a strong interest in life-long learning.
• Develop foreign language skills.
• Study topics not offered at Wooster.
• Experience new ways of teaching and learning.
• Broaden your understanding of the world.

Professional Goals

The professional benefits of study abroad are vast, and last long after returning from abroad. In fact, many employers are specifically looking for the very skills that you will gain during your study abroad experience. You will gain:

• The ability to communicate across cultures
• The ability to problem-solve in unfamiliar situations
• Culturally intelligent listening and communication skills
• The opportunity to discover alternative career paths
• The ability to view situations from unique perspectives
• An appreciation of difference

Note that many of our programs offer internships and/or robust volunteer opportunities. If you choose to complete one of these, you’ll increase your global professional network and add a really interesting element to your resume!

Data shows that studying abroad will increase your job prospects and earning potential:

• 90% of study abroad students found their first job within 6 months of graduation
• 89% of those continuing to graduate school earned admission into their first or second choice school
• Study abroad students on average earn $6,000 more in starting salaries compared to non-study abroad students
• International internships are an excellent discussion topic for your job interviews

Personal Goals

You’ll hear many returnee students say that study abroad changed their lives. Here are a few examples of how study abroad can benefit you:

• Travel to new places and make friends from around the world
• Become more independent, self-reliant, and confident
• Learn more about yourself and who you want to be
• Learn how to adapt effectively in culturally diverse environments
• Try new foods and have unique experiences

Semester study abroad allows students to spend a fall or spring semester living and studying in another country while earning credit toward their Wooster degree. Students can choose from hundreds of approved programs around the world, offering coursework across a wide range of academic disciplines.

A semester abroad provides the opportunity to fully immerse yourself in another culture, develop greater independence, and gain a global perspective while making progress toward your academic goals. Many programs also offer opportunities for language learning, experiential education, and community engagement.

Semester programs are ideal for students seeking a comprehensive international experience.

Summer study abroad offers the opportunity to earn academic credit abroad during the summer months. Programs typically range from a few weeks to several months and are offered by universities and approved study abroad providers around the world.

Summer programs are an excellent option for students who want an international experience but are unable to spend an entire semester away due to academic, athletic, or extracurricular commitments. Depending on the program, students may focus on coursework, language study, field experiences, or specialized topics within their discipline.

TREKs are short-term, faculty-led international courses that combine classroom learning with travel abroad. Designed and led by Wooster faculty, these programs allow students to engage directly with the people, places, and cultures connected to their coursework.

Because TREKs are built around a specific academic theme, students gain firsthand experience through site visits, cultural activities, guest speakers, and experiential learning opportunities. TREKs are a unique way to study abroad while traveling with Wooster faculty and classmates.

Wooster encourages students to pursue original research around the world. Students conducting Independent Study, senior research, internships with a research component, or other faculty-mentored projects abroad can receive guidance and support from GEO throughout the planning process.

GEO can assist with travel planning, health and safety preparation, international insurance, travel registration, and connecting students with campus resources to help ensure a successful research experience abroad.