A new study shows that studying abroad has positive effects not only on a student’s academic and career success, but also on their personal development.
Researchers at the Friedrich Schiller University at Jena, Germany, found that studying abroad — known as “sojourning” in Germany — helps students develop emotional stability and openness. It also helps them cope with new experiences, according to the researchers.
“To find one’s way in a foreign country is an important life experience,” said Professor Franz Neyer, who conducted the study with psychologist Dr. Julia Zimmermann.
“Those who spent some time abroad profit in their personality development, for instance, in terms of growing openness and emotional stability. Their development regarding these characteristics clearly differed from the control group, even when initial personality differences were taken into account,” said Zimmermann.
Maynooth University students have the unique opportunity to study abroad as part of their degree. Students may avail of the Erasmus (EU countries) or Study Abroad (non-EU countries) Programme.
Maynooth University has nearly 200 partner universities around the world where students can study as part of their undergraduate degree. Students do not need to speak a foreign language to be able to study abroad. With partner universities in English-speaking countries and many courses taught in English in non-English-speaking countries, it is possible to study abroad without a second language.
Students interested in studying abroad should contact the International Office at Maynooth University who will provide them with all information regarding their study abroad options.