Why Go?

The Institute for the International Education of Students (IES) surveyed alumni who studied abroad from 1950 through 1999 for a total of more than 3,400 respondents. The results showed participating in an international program was a defining occasion that continues to impact the individual's life long after the program is over, no matter where the individuals studied abroad or the length of their program. The list below highlights the findings of this study.

• 97% of surveyed respondents said studying abroad served as a stimulant for increased maturity
• 96% reported significant increase in self-confidence
• 95% proclaimed the program had a lasting impact of their perceptions of the world
• 89% credited the experience for enabling them to tolerate ambiguity
• 73% said their international experience continues to influence their every-day decisions

IES also surveyed recent graduates (2006-2011) who studied abroad to determine the impact of studying abroad on their careers. This study found:

• 90% were accepted to their first or second choice for graduate school
• 88% indicated the international experience was effective or very effective in building job skills
• 79% found the experience increased their confidence in required skills for their first job