Find Out Why Study Abroad is Worth It
Studying abroad isn’t just for students at big universities—it’s for ECC students too! Whether you're planning to transfer, pursuing a career tech program, or a non-degree seeking student, study abroad can transform your college experience. Here's why it’s worth it:
Gain a Global PerspectiveStudying in another country exposes you to new cultures, languages, and traditions. This firsthand experience can expand your global understandinng and intercultural competency- skills that are increasingly valued by employers.
Boost Your Career Prospects
Employers look for candidates with unique experiences and cultural awareness. Studying abroad can help you become more independent, gain an understanding of global issues, and build intercultural awareness, all traits that stand out on a resume.
Build Confidence and Independence
Living and learning in a foreign country pushes you out of your comfort zone. You’ll gain confidence, develop problem-solving skills, and prove to yourself that you can thrive in unfamiliar environments.
Learn in a New Environment
Imagine taking classes in a historic city or learning a subject in the place where it originated. Study abroad programs often combine academics with cultural immersion, giving you a deeper understanding of what you're studying.
Affordable Opportunities Exist
Many community colleges like ECC partner with affordable study abroad programs. Scholarships, financial aid, and short-term options make it possible for students to study abroad.
Research also shows that community college students who study abroad had increased success and engagement compared to their peers who did not, and those same students had "improved outcomes due to engagement-enhancing components such as shared common experiences, nurturing behavior from faculty, and increased student interaction in collaborative activities” (Raby, Rhodes, & Biscarra, 2014, p. 181). So, why should you consider study abroad?
Source: Raby, R. L., Rhodes, G. M., & Biscarra, A. (2014). Community college study abroad: Implications for student success. Community College Journal of Research and Practice, 38(2-3), 174-183.
Earn Credit Towards Your ECC Degree or Certificate by Studying Abroad
Most ECC study abroad programs are designed to allow you to earn credits in your program of study or work toward a transfer degree while experiencing life abroad in a foreign culture and a different system of education. The classes you take on an ECC study abroad program will appear on your ECC transcript, and in qualifying programs, eligible students can use financial aid towards the cost of study abroad. While you study abroad, you remain an ECC student and are eligible for student support services, enrollment privileges such as early registration, and access to library services.
Contact us at international@elgin.edu for more information!