Why Study Abroad
Stand out!
- Having a study abroad experience on your resume helps you stand out from the number of other applicants who have exactly the same degree as you.
- Many employers value study abroad experiences in the workplace, and are increasingly looking for intercultural awareness and experience with diversity. Why? Although their employees may not be working with someone from a different country, more often than not they work with someone from a different background.
- Study abroad is one of the best ways students can acquire global skills, such as adaptability, flexibility, and problem-solving.
Graduate on time
93% of NWTC study abroad alum stated that their experience abroad positively affected their persistence towards graduation.
NWTC study abroad programs occur during regular breaks in the school year:
- Winter break
- Spring break
- Summer vacation
Fulfill credits in unique way
You have to complete the credits anyway, why not learn outside the classroom in the real world? Our programs allow you to see international businesses, healthcare services, energy practices, educational systems, architecture and cultural sites first-hand. Even more importantly is the opportunity to interact with the people that experience them on a daily basis.
The below classes can be completed through a study abroad program:
- College of Business, Career Experience
- Trades and Engineering Technology Capstone
- General Studies Intro to Diversity Studies
- Early Childhood Education and FTE Practicum
- Intro to Renewable Energy and Sustainability
Strengthen your Employability Skills
NWTC has identified transferrable employability skills reaching beyond the context of a specific course. Study abroad strengthens Employability Skills; in particular, "Value individual differences and abilities", "Think critically and creatively", and "Demonstrate community and global accountability".
Employability Skills:
- Communicate Effectively
- Work Cooperatively and Professionally
- Think Critically and Creatively
- Solve Problems Effectively
- Value Individual Differences and Abilities
- Demonstrate Personal Accountability
- Demonstrate Community and Global Accountability
A CareerBuilder survey found that 77% of employers believe that soft skills are just as important as hard skills.
Hear from Alum
“…I believe that my communication skills are much better. Also, I think that I was able to adapt outside of my comfort zone.”
~China participant
“…traveling to another country taught me how to prepare for another culture. Business etiquette is different in every country... It was also neat to see how business principles we use here carry over into other countries as well, such as lean [business practices].”
~Brazil participant
“I learned that I am capable of being completely independent and letting go of every fear I may have had. It is liberating to be in a country across the world, close your eyes, and think to yourself, I did this! I overcame my anxiety and fears and have had the best time of my life!”
~Thailand participant