Study Abroad: Food for Thought
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55804/ETAGTSU.2346-8149.2026.14Keywords:
study abroad programmes, intercultural sensitivity, professional adaptability, sojourner adaptation, global citizenshipAbstract
Despite the growing popularity of study abroad programmes, it remains unclear how this unique experience shapes sojourners’ lives and future careers. Hence, the aim of this paper is to present the potential benefits and perils of the study abroad experience. For this purpose, the most important factors are discussed from the perspective of three broad categories: linguistic, personal and cultural. The overwhelming body of research points to the general success of the study abroad experience, which, as such, needs to be advocated as a pedagogical tool that yields substantial gains in global citizenship and professional adaptability. At the same time, it must be borne in mind that the transition to a foreign academic environment presents multifaceted challenges that are not equally met by all individuals. Consequently, we should focus on variables that support the adaptation process. This includes competencies such as linguistic proficiency and intercultural sensitivity, as well as social and contextual variables (social network development and resilience).
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