Often, those of us who have studied abroad describe the experience as “life-changing” or “eye-opening” or something like that, and we may make blanket statements like “I learned so much by studying abroad, I can’t even begin to tell you everything!”
But I think, at least in my case, that sometimes I say that simply because I really can’t begin to tell you everything–not only because there’s so much to tell, but also because there’s so much to process.
Case in point: I sat down tonight to work on a resume, and naturally I listed my study abroad experience therein, for it was a rather important segment of my education; but, as I began to mentally list the skills and other assets provided by the experience, it occurred to me that I hadn’t yet really asked myself exactly what I had gained from it. And, as I did, the answers seemed less-than-suitable for a professional resume.
For example: I gained friends, hopefully of the lifelong variety. But I severely doubt that my future employer will care that I have chums.
I gained a greater idea of my purpose, albeit still a somewhat vague one. Besides, to say that I learned a lot about myself is not only still very general, but makes it sound more as if I’m applying to college than a professional position.
I gained a better ability to take care of myself–some might call it independence, but I know better. I had to spend money wisely, plan trips, catch trains, and cook meals–which reminds me, I gained a few new recipes, too, and one can easily imagine why that will never make it to the resume.
I gained a different perspective–kind of. But if that isn’t cliche, then I’ve never heard one. Though I will say that the British worldview is a bit different from ours, at least in my circles. I was astonished to realise that many of them even bothered to notice where their groceries came from–as in which countries–and whether the stores had obtained them fairly or not. Meanwhile, many (but certainly not all) Americans concern themselves more with the latest Hollywood “news.” Cool.
I gained new words and phrases. Highly practical and duly noted.
I gained memories, and what I don’t have permanently stored in my mind I have permanently recorded in my journal–but what principal wishes to hear of such sentimental business?
I say none of this to undermine the study abroad experience; I regret it not at all. And it will remain on my resume, absolutely–it’s just finding the right words to convey that certain idea…
Did you notice any defferences and likensses in the cultures? I find it interesting that an antique to us in the U.S. may be a hundred or two hundred years old, but in England an antique is centuries old. How relatively young we are as a nation and how that differs from the much older British empire. For example; because we are young we see long term planning as a 5 year forcast where the english are looking ahead by generations.
Things I think we have in common; ironically I think we view the french in much the same manner. Different areas have different dialects.
These are things that I can only speculate on as I have never been to England. You have the experience to confirm or disclaim these notions; experience that you can share with students. not many people have that experience.
Don’t sell the trip short when it comes to resume’s. Just the fact that you went is enough. you went alone. You were able to adapt and overcome the pitfalls of life in a different society (missing a bus). You take it for granted, but many people would fold up and leave or never adventure into such circumstances.