How Study Abroad Can Be a Substitute for Work Experience

College graduates are in high demand. Technology and research changes so rapidly, that many college graduates end up with more knowledge and experience than those that have been employed within the industry for years. This makes them an asset to nearly every organization, and savvy companies are starting to recognize the value of a recent college education.

But employers are faced with a challenge – they need a way to evaluate someone’s talent and potential without a work history to draw from. It will be up to you to find ways to prove to the hiring managers that you have the experience and skills necessary to thrive at the job, and one of the best ways to prove that is to highlight your study abroad experience.

The Value Companies See in Study Abroad Students

For many job seeking graduates, study abroad experience may be a successful substitute for work experience. That is because studying abroad tells employers a great deal about your candidacy including:

• Your Ability to Adapt to Change – Studying abroad, by its very nature, shows that someone is capable of adapting to new environments. That is a skill that employers highly value, and one that shows them you are ready for challenges that may come at you.
• Your Bilingual/Multicultural Experience – The world is shrinking, and the ability to be capable of adapting to different cultures, speaking different languages, and understanding different people is often highly valued to customers.
• Your Drive for Something More – Study abroad is rarely for the sluggish. It is almost always sought out by those that have a drive to learn, experience, and explore. That type of energy is highly valued in the workplace, and shows that you’re someone that can bring that energy to the work environment.

What you engaged in while abroad may also be interesting to the hiring manager. If you were involved in any research projects, volunteered, taught English to other students – these are all valuable achievements that make your experience stand out.

Putting Your Study Abroad Experience on a Resume

Your work experience will always be highly valued, and if you have substantial work experience it may be best to focus on that, rather than your study abroad life. But in the absence of a work history, there is considerable value to showcasing your study abroad experience.

From managing different currency to interacting with those of a different culture, the experiences you gained while studying abroad are similar to what employers are looking for in great applicants. It is a great way to show companies why you are someone they should consider over other candidates.

 

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