Glamaour Era magazine Glamaour Era India | Page 32

After their time in a different country, the feedback from the
students is nothing short of inspiring.
"Our students often talk about the new things they've discovered about
themselves just from having these new experiences far from home," Redman
says. "Along with becoming more independent, many talk about their plans
for the future. With very few exceptions, they see college as an essential part of
their futures. These teens are not only excited about going to college, they
know what they want from life. In having these experiences, they nd their
focus, and they set goals."
It's easy to see how focus and passion can fuel a student's drive to excel
academically. Beyond college, research suggests studying abroad also has
positive effects on career prospects.
Villanova University found that graduates who spent time in a different
country as part of their studies had better opportunities and a higher job
placement after graduation than those who did not.
In addition to that, businesses are increasingly seeking employees who can
contribute a global perspective. According to the Association of American
Colleges and Universities, 78 percent of 400 employers surveyed in 2015
said students should gain the "intercultural skills and understanding of
societies and countries outside the U.S." Yet only 15 percent of employers nd
these qualities in recent college graduates.
Thinking about it? The opportunity is closer than you think.
Studying abroad is long associated with families of means. Look for
scholarship opportunities and doors can start opening for your teenager. For
example, CIEE's Global Navigator Scholarships are based on nancial need
and cover anywhere from 20 percent to 100 percent of their tuition costs,
making the opportunity to study abroad and experience a new culture within
reach for even more families. Since 2013, these scholarships have made
international study a reality for more than 3,000 students. To learn more
about CIEE's Global Navigator High School Study Abroad program and the
scholarships, visit ciee.org/globalnavigators.