Alum Sven Kliem (MA 2013) on the Rewards of Studying Abroad

Submitted by Ellwood Wiggins on

I’ve studied in the US for a year on two different occasions, and I wholeheartedly recommend taking the chance to go abroad while you’re in university. It will be an amazing experience, which will without a doubt be something that shouldn’t be missed. Studying abroad will provide you with a completely different perspective on many topics you’ve thought you already know all about – be it in your studies or in life in general. Travelling is great, but in order to really immerse yourself in a foreign culture you need to live in it for a longer period of time. This will do wonders for not only your language skills, but also your understanding of the culture and its people. You will meet so many new people of whom some will become friends for the rest of your life. It should also not be forgotten that in today’s international world, a stay abroad is something many employers look out for – you’ll always have something to talk about!

I’m now working as a project manager in video game localization, something I knew nothing about until I took a class on it during my year at the University of Washington. Spending time in a different environment will help you develop personally, but also grow your network of contacts – something that is of great importance nowadays. Also, consider that once you start a job, you probably won’t have to opportunity to stay abroad for an extended period without relocating. Talk to your instructors and advisors about which programs are offered. There are more options available than you think – The Time is Now.

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