Have you ever thought about studying outside your country? No, not as part of an exchange program, but as part of a complete course of four years or more. I always wanted to study outside of our country and that dream came true when I received a scholarship to study at Central Michigan University. Studying abroad is both exciting and challenging. In recent times, studying abroad has gained popularity among developing countries compared to the past. Many students now wish to study abroad, particularly in Western countries. This leaves one wanting to know what makes academics want to study abroad, learn a new culture and the opportunities available to international students in the country of their choice. Study abroad is a broad definition that includes students wishing to continue their studies in other states. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay The term study abroad refers to an individual's intention to gain knowledge beyond the confines of their home country. A person who crosses his or her national or territorial border for the primary purpose of enrolling in an educational institution in another country is considered an international student. It is for this reason that the majority of these people hold a non-resident visa, sometimes called a student visa. In most cases, academics pursue higher level studies at higher education institutions in the host country. On the contrary, the majority of foreign students hold a visa or permanent residence under a situation such as a green card (IRS, 2006). The document allows students to live and study in the city of their choice and enjoy the same as other citizens. Researchers say the desire to study abroad is fueled by the significant component of global education as well as the internationalization efforts of institutions. According to Cook, value lies in the opportunity to acquire cross-cultural learning, promoting intellectual growth, self-awareness, personal and professional development, as well as global awareness (Cook, 2011). Basically, making such a decision comes with other long-term positive impacts. The greatest value lies in acquiring global skills. Global competence allows an individual to acquire the ability to understand and appreciate the cultural norms of others. Such a person can interact effectively with people from diverse cultural backgrounds without major difficulties (Cook, 2011). Basically, it allows you to appreciate the cultural diversity of the world. We also gain immense knowledge of international interdependence. They are able to understand how global systems work and are therefore flexible to work for any organization and in any part of the world. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay in the It used to be that studying abroad meant going to a university likely located in a southern European country at the start of their freshman year. They would take credit courses at the university of their choice for a full academic year. During this period, they would try to get used to the local culture..