
North America, Europe, Australia – these are the most popular destinations when it comes to studying abroad. But maybe you are looking for a place that’s a little more outside the box. So how about spending your semester abroad in Asia? Of course, talking about “studying in Asia” is like talking about “studying in Europe” – extremely generalizing and ignoring the often huge differences between the individual countries within that continent. But there’s no denying that Asia as a cultural region is becoming more and more influential in today’s global world. So let’s get into it – here are the top 5 reasons why studying abroad in an Asian country is a great idea:
Get out of your comfort zone
Spending a semester abroad is not just about studying, it’s an experience that will shape you as a person forever. And nothing will help you grow more as a person than getting out of your comfort zone. If you spend a few months living in an Asian country, you will most likely be surrounded by a culture that’s very different from what you are used to. At first, you might find yourself struggling with simple everyday things like public transportation or ordering food. But after a few weeks, all these things will become second nature to you – the best feeling ever!
Gain expert knowledge
It’s no secret that companies look for employees with international experience. Especially if you are a fresh graduate at the beginning of your career, it can give you a competitive edge. So why not maximize this competitive edge by gaining your experience abroad in a region set to be one of the most powerful in the world in the next decades? Asia has been culturally, politically and economically on the rise for years, and it doesn’t look like it’s going to stop any time soon. Having lived in an Asian country will give you valuable expert knowledge that will make you stand out on the job market!
Live comfortably on a student budget
This one depends on the country you choose, but in general it is true: The average cost of living in many Asian countries – especially in South-East Asia – is much lower than in Europe, North America or Australia. So if your budget is on the tighter side but you really want to study abroad, do not worry: Asia is a fantastic option for you! You can enjoy a high standard of living at a comparatively low cost – and still have enough money left for traveling. Sounds good, right?
Enjoy top-quality education
Let’s go back to the original purpose of studying abroad for a minute – studying. In most Asian countries, education is highly valued. It’s something that is not taken for granted. That’s why it’s no wonder that Asian schools and students regularly score top marks in international rankings. Spending a semester at one of these schools will give you an insight into some of the best education systems in the world – and as many Asian universities are internationally renowned, it will look awesome on your CV.
Combine studying and traveling
And lastly, for all the world travelers and adventurers out there: Asia is an excellent destination for you if you want to combine your semester abroad with exploring new places. Often, distances between countries are short and flights within Asia are super cheap! In many cases, you can also easily travel by bus or train. A few weeks backpacking through South-East-Asia after your studies? Easy. A weekend trip to Singapore? Why not! Wherever you choose to study, it’s the perfect springboard for traveling.