TO BECOME A "GLOBAL CITIZEN" IN TODAY'S INTERCONNECTED WORLD
Now, more than ever, our world is interconnected. To be successful — personally, intellectually, and professionally — you must become a "global citizen," skilled at interacting in and between multiple cultures and capable of analyzing issues on a global level.
As Colin Powell's statement above suggests, getting an international education — in other words, studying abroad — is one of the best ways for students to build global competence.
The experience can help you:
Develop new perspectives on academic subjects and real-world issues
Study abroad lets you study a variety of subjects in more depth and from different cultural perspectives. Outside the classroom, your personal education is enhanced through daily interactions in the foreign culture with host families or housemates and others in the community.
Achieve proficiency in a foreign language
While you can learn grammar and vocabulary at Northwestern, it is impossible to become truly proficient in a foreign language without using it in a real-world setting. A non-English-speaking country is the ultimate "language classroom."
Experience personal growth
Study abroad is a challenging adventure, academically and personally. Students who return from abroad consistently report that they developed a greater sense of independence and confidence in their capabilities.
Develop valuable career skills
Students who study abroad often develop career skills that make them especially marketable, including:
Critical thinking and problem solving
Independence and self confidence
Teamwork and communication
Motivation and leadership
Flexibility and adaptability
Creativity
An expanded world view and multicultural perspective