4 Life-Changing Reasons to Study Abroad

There are many great reasons to study abroad, so it’s hardly surprising that Australia is home to 738,107 international students!*

Five Kaplan Business School students were selected to become student leaders through the annual City of Sydney International Student Leadership and Ambassador (ISLA) program last year.

Each student has overcome some big challenges in order to live and study in Australia, and here are some of the reasons why they think it’s worth it:

1. Learn English in a native speaking country

It’s no secret English is today’s international language of business. For many careers, being able to fluently speak the language is essential.

The best way to learn a language is to be immersed in it. One of the main reasons to study abroad is that you’ll be learning a language as well as gaining a qualification, so you’ll get twice the education!

Renato Jose Gabina Lazari / Brazilian
Master of Accounting
“English is the master key that can open the doors for anyone here, so your first focus as an international student should be to improve your English. It can help you perform better in your studies and widens opportunities in the workforce.”

2. Develop important soft skills for your career

In a competitive job market, it’s the ‘soft skills’ you gain through extraordinary experiences that make you stand out. According to a Deloitte Access Economics forecast study, soft skill-intensive occupations will account for two-thirds of all jobs by 2030.

Living abroad is linked to the development of confidence and ‘soft skills’ that employers are looking for which, according to global recruitment company Hays, most commonly include communication, organisation, adaptability and respect for the ideas of others.

“Studying abroad helps with becoming well-rounded. We’re gaining improved communication skills, exposure to a multicultural environment, and experience in a competitive work environment with varying leadership styles. Not to mention, skills just by living, studying and working in a different country.” – Divine Joy Santua Samson (Filipino, Master of Accounting)

3,400 organisations surveyed in Australia^

2019/20 Hays Salary Guide

> 62% want candidates with problem solving skills

> 47% want critical thinking skills

3. Experience growth through a different lifestyle

We all need to experience new and interesting things in life, in order to grow. Studies show that when you travel or go overseas, your brain is rewired to exercise the parts that are linked to your psychological wellbeing.

When you do something ‘big’ like moving abroad, you’re forming memories and experiences that turn you into a more well-rounded, happy person. Studying abroad in Australia, you’re also expanding your horizons by being able to learn and work with people from all over the world.

Kaplan Business School has a student mix of over 80 nationalities! ** The opportunity to collaborate in such a multicultural environment can add an extra dimension to your study experience that you may not have expected.

Thamara Pereira / Brazilian
Master of Business Administration

“Studying abroad has really exposed me to a lot of new ideas. I’ve enjoyed discussing economic and global topics with students and professionals from around the world, which is helping to shape my mindset and the way I think.”

4. Develop international networks and a global resume

As we all know, networks are invaluable when it comes to your career. In Australia, it’s estimated that between 60-80% of jobs are ‘hidden’, which means that they’re not advertised. Instead, applicants are sourced through existing professional networks and recruiters.

Going abroad to study with other international students is one of the best ways you can develop a global professional network. In ten years, you could be hiring your former classmates!

“It’s very important to build a network once you are in a new country, and to also respect cultural differences. I’m developing new skills while making friends and expanding my network of professionals from diverse backgrounds.” – Renato Jose Gabina Lazari (Brazilian, Master of Accounting)

Are you ready for a career and life-changing experience? Learn more about studying in Australia with our complete guide for international students.

*October 2019, Department of Education

**Based on student enrolments between 2018–2020

^ Hays, 2019 | hays.com.au, hays.net.nz