AIFS Alumni Weigh in on the Importance of International Education

It’s International Education Week across the United States! As such, we’re celebrating and recognizing the importance of an international education experience and why cultural exchange is so important to individuals and the greater good. Some of our Alumni Ambassadors weighed in to talk about what international education and studying abroad has meant to them.

“International education and cultural exchange are important in order to experience a new culture, a new language, new traditions, and overall a new outlook on other countries’ lifestyles. I learned and became more aware about how other people live in the world and what their everyday looks like. I believe it’s important for all people to try an international education experience because you not only gain perspective about the world and have the privilege to immerse yourself within a new culture, but you also learn a great deal about yourself in the process.” – Nadia Hucko (pictured above), AIFS in Prague, Czech Republic

“International education and cultural exchange are important as you are engaged in a new culture as if you have lived there your whole life. These experiences allow you to see the world as a whole and helps you understand the importance of different cultures.”- Erika Farr, AIFS in Limerick, Ireland

“International education and cultural exchange are important now more than ever, because they create empathetic and open-minded global citizens. College is about gaining perspective and self awareness, and studying abroad is the ultimate way to do this.” – Greta Banks, AIFS in Barcelona, Spain

“They allow you to see the world from new perspectives. Experiencing new cultures first hand allows you to really connect with a culture instead of just learning about it.” – Danielle Pantano, AIFS in London, England

“It allowed me to explore the ancient monuments of Athens as a student and truly appreciate the culture of the past.” – Kate Loomis, AIFS in Athens, Greece

“International education is important because having such a hands on experience in a culture different than what you’ve grown up with increases your global awareness, you have an opportunity for personal and academic growth, and you get to make lifelong memories all while still pursuing an education.” – Gina Baca, AIFS in Barcelona, Spain

“International education is important to bring a new perspective on a culture who might do things differently from your home country. College is a way to try and discover new things and study abroad is a must to learn something new about yourself.” – Keely Fickau, AIFS in London, England

You can pursue an international education through study abroad opportunities. Consider a semester, academic year, summer, or January term overseas with AIFS!