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What Professor Armin Schwegler has to say about study abroad

Students who spend 6-12months abroad

(1) invariably have the EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME;
(2) grow in ways that other students who “stay behind” (at UCI ) do not;
(3) greatly increase their chances of being accepted into competitive graduate programs;
(4) generally acquire advanced foreign language skills “in a hurry”.

Changing your perspective

If you go abroad with an open mind, then you're certain to return to the U.S. a more enlightened person. One of the major benefits of studying abroad is its ability to broaden your world understanding and perspective on just about anything. You gain a different view of international affairs, from politics to economics to social issues. You also return with a deeper understanding and respect for your host country, knowing how another culture approaches daily life and unusual challenges.

You may also return with a new appreciation for the U.S. (coming back to California will be wonderful!). And best of all, ¡hablarás español como un pajarito!

Jump-starting your career

Studying abroad typically gives your resume a nice boost and improves your post-graduate employment prospects. Nowadays, employers actively seek college graduates who have spent time studying abroad because they want employees with an international knowledge base as well as high-level foreign language skills.

The same international skills that make you more marketable for employment are also valued by graduate schools. These skills include cross-cultural communication skills, analytical skills, teamwork, flexibility, an understanding of cultural contexts, the ability to adapt to new circumstances and deal with differences, a developed view of the world outside the U.S., independence, and self-confidence.

In sum

There can be no doubt: studying and traveling abroad will make your UCI experience immeasurably richer!

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