Have you ever toyed with the idea of pursuing an education abroad? While critics cite the high costs, proponents are often heard saying that it is a highly rewarding experience, one that can literally transform your life. If you are considering taking the plunge, here are five very good reasons to do so:

1. Learn a new culture

With the whole world embracing globalization in terms of business, communication, cuisine, skill sets and experiences, studying abroad offers an excellent opportunity to learn a new culture first-hand. Tomorrow’s markets are certain to demand a truly globalized employee, and the closer you can work with diverse people, the more valuable you will be to your organization.

2. Discover yourself

A new experience often uncovers hidden potential. Pursuing an education abroad demands you to apply your strengths and develop skills you didn’t even know you possessed, to deal with day-to-day challenges. At the same time, you are likely to make a lot of mistakes. This puts you face-to-face with your weakness, so you may tackle them and bloom to your full potential.

3. Break out of the academic grind

Every country has its own academic system. For instance, if you currently study in the U.S. and choose to study in the UK, you will realize that the way the course is conducted there is tangibly different. From the classroom experience to extra-curricular activities to cultural differences – the sky’s the limit to what you can absorb in those couple of years away from home.

4. Travel and make friends

Certain universities offer organized field trips to their students. Even if they don’t, holidays may be spent in exploring the city you are in as well as neighboring areas. If you are the adventurous type, you may set off on road trips with friends from different cultures and learn a totally new way of life. Yes, studying abroad presents the opportunity of actually making friends from around the world, and not on the Internet alone! Especially if your university encourages diversity, you may join one of the myriad on-campus clubs and meet different people in a safe environment. You may interact and build relationships that last a lifetime. Besides, few things can replace the exhilaration learning different cultures can bring.

5. Boost your career

Considering the costs and hardships often associated with studying abroad, knowing the career benefits it provides is very rewarding. This experience enhances the value of your degree like no other. A case in point is that when you choose to study in the U.S., you are offered courses that few other campuses around the world provide. Linguistic skills may be greatly enhanced when you study in the UK. Besides, possessing knowledge of a foreign market makes you valuable to well-paying and renowned multi-national corporations.