Study abroad: these are America's favorite destinations
Are you thinking about sending your kid abroad? Consider these destinations
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TRAVEL Study abroad
If you've always wanted to spend a year in Paris to learn French or head to Japan to immerse yourself in a new culture, now is the time. A study published in the Global Source for Science News says that living abroad increases one's "self-concept clarity," in other words, you find yourself.
It may sound like a cliché, but living abroad will give you a better understanding of the differences between your home and other countries. This leads you to understand yourself and your priorities better. It's more than just beautiful architecture and incredible food—although those don't hurt.
"When you're out of your comfort zone, away from the friends, environment, and family that you know you are essentially starting from scratch," Jenn DeWall, Career & Life Coach, told Bustle. "The things that used to give you confidence, i.e. being the supportive friend, being the best at work, are no longer there to give you confidence. Living abroad requires that you discover and meet new people and build and evolve your sense of self to respond to the new challenges and situations of living abroad."
While it may not be feasible for everyone to stop what they are doing and move to Thailand, something like study abroad offers a little six-month sample of what it would be like to live abroad. It's also a great way for students to develop necessary skills for adulthood as it pushes them out of their comfort zone. The Institute of International Education, with the help of the Bureau of Education and Cultural Affairs of the US Department of State, compiles information about international students in the US and about Americans abroad. According to the non-profit’s data, these were the top study abroad destinations for American students in the 2015-16 academic year.
Click through this gallery and find out which of these countries piques your interest!
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