This article is sponsored by European University.
Employers today only choose the best candidates, and often these are the graduates who have gained international experience by studying abroad. From knowledge of different cultures and international communication skills, to problem-solving skills and adaptability, here are five of the top employment skills you can expect to gain as an international student.
At European University (EU), in addition to an international curriculum, participants are surrounded by professors and classmates from many countries. In a system integral to the European University academic philosophy, every European University student has the chance to discover and live in three different countries during their program.
1. International experience
Graduates who have gained international experience by studying abroad have obtained first-hand knowledge of another country’s culture and protocol and will be better prepared to understand the 21st century business world. EU bachelor’s and MBA participants can decide to spend each term in one of four different cities where their international experience varies: Barcelona, Geneva, Montreux and Munich. Each of these EU main campus locations is a business hub full of innovation and energy, where multinational corporations and organizations stand alongside cultural sights, entertainment spots and architectural masterpieces.
2. Problem-solving skills
Studying abroad strengthens people’s independence, resourcefulness and problem-solving skills. Employers will know that they will be able to rely on these future employees in a variety of situations. When faced with a problem abroad, an individual must use their own initiative, draw on their personal experience and employ problem-solving skills on their own. From dealing with minor issues to larger, more daunting problems, international students have to stand on their own two feet; a stance that will serve them well in working situations. Overcoming obstacles can also lead people to better weigh up difficulties, analyze issues more carefully and ultimately become more decisive.
3. Adaptability
Moving abroad can be daunting and overwhelming. There is no doubt that relocating to another country, whether it’s for three months or three decades, is a challenge. Students who make the most of opportunities to study in a new place strengthen their ability to adapt. They work out how to settle in, acclimatize and adjust to their new environment. Some do this very quickly, allowing them to enjoy their time studying abroad from very early on. Others may initially take longer; however, the more they move and challenge themselves, the more easily they adjust.
4. Language skills
European University has a strong focus on the development of language skills, with an impressive 98% of students and staff members speaking more than two languages. This immersion in an international atmosphere, coupled with the chance to discover other cities, cultures and ways of life, allows students at European University to gain real global experience. Living abroad is the perfect opportunity to develop your language skills, a key asset in today’s ever-more globalized world. The chance to constantly hear others speaking a new language and to use it on a daily basis is rare, and one that can be greatly taken advantage of in order to advance your employment skills.
5. Networking and communication skills
Despite all the benefits of studying abroad, the majority of today’s students still don’t take up the opportunity, making your international experience even more notable and worthwhile. Having to communicate in another language, whether it is the language of your destination or the universal business language, English, increases confidence levels and improves networking and communication skills, adding to your overall employment skills. Learning about the art, cuisine and history of another culture develops your understanding of others; something vital to working and succeeding in the global business world.
European University offers 12 Master of Business Administration programs on all campuses with majors in International Business; Communication & Public Relations; International Marketing; Global Banking & Finance; Leisure & Tourism Management; Entrepreneurship; Leadership; E-Business; Sports Management; Human Resources Management; Design Management and Reputation Management. By having a standardized curriculum across the entire network, EU makes it easier for students to change from one campus to another without missing a beat.
European University, accredited and recognized by several international bodies, is also ranked as a top 35 business school in Europe by QS Top MBA (2013-2014). The university’s programs are accredited by ACBSP and IACBE, both organizations are recognized by the CHEA, and it also boasts the IQA accreditation, awarded by CEEMAN.
English is the language of business. All assignments, exams, lectures and seminars at European University are in English. All students who come to the university further develop their employment skills, language skills and communication skills during their studies, so that they can become key participants of the English-speaking business world.
