Thousands of students across the country study abroad every year, and for those at the University of Iowa, the experience is often described as transformational. Here are seven reasons why Iowa students choose to study abroad:

1. Immersive cultural learning on a global scale 

Immerse yourself in a new culture while still being part of the university community. These programs allow you to experience global perspectives firsthand, fostering a deeper appreciation for diversity and broadening your understanding of the world no matter whether you choose a faculty-led program or one hosted by our trusted partners abroad. 

"Studying abroad is my way of stepping out of my comfort zone and diving headfirst into the vibrant array of cultures the world has to offer."

“Studying abroad is my way of stepping out of my comfort zone and diving headfirst into the vibrant array of cultures the world has to offer,” said Samantha Hitlan, a second-year student who studied abroad in spring 2024 on the USAC Montevideo program. “I believe that by immersing myself in different traditions, languages, and customs, I'll not only grow academically but also as an individual. This unique opportunity to learn beyond the walls of a classroom will allow me to gain a deeper understanding of the world through connections and real-world interactions.” 

2. Tailored academic experiences abroad 

UI Study Abroad programs empower you to customize your academic journey. Whether you're delving into literature in London, public health in Costa Rica, or engineering in Japan, the chance to blend your academic pursuits with a global setting is an opportunity like no other. 

“My study abroad program really gave me a chance to discover different classroom experiences.”

“My study abroad program really gave me a chance to discover different classroom experiences,” described Anna Horozewski, a UI psychology major who studied abroad while on a Gilman Scholarship at the American College of Thessaloniki in Greece in summer 2023. “The university I studied at valued smaller, more intimate classes, and because of that I was able to really connect with my professors and classmates and have educational conversations throughout classes.” 

3. Building global networks for future success 

In the competitive landscape of today's globalized job market, we recognize the importance of building a diverse professional network. Studying abroad can connect you with people from around the world, fostering relationships that can open doors both personally and professionally. Many Iowa students choose to complete a global internship abroad each year, using the experience to earn academic credit toward their degree while immersing themselves in a new culture, acquiring skills, attaining personal growth, and exploring possible career options. 

"I've built an international network which has been great because my connections have become much more diversified by working in another country."

"My internship abroad has brought me so many unique opportunities that I don't know I would have ever had the chance to work on if I wouldn't have taken the internship in Milan," said Samantha Longo (BBA, marketing/marketing management, ’23) who completed a global internship in Milan, Italy in summer 2022. "I've built an international network which has been great because my connections have become much more diversified by working in another country. The way I see it, there will never be another time in your life when you can do an internship abroad while getting credit for college; so, if you're considering it, this is your sign to do it." 

4. Language proficiency and cultural fluency

While not all study abroad programs offered include full language immersion, students studying language often choose to enhance their language skills. Whether you're perfecting your French in Paris or fine-tuning your Korean in Seoul, our programs can give you your first experience practicing language daily in conversational and academic settings. 

"Being able to make friends and live everyday life in Japan made me realize that I knew more of the language than I thought, and I feel so much more confident with my language learning going forward."

“Before I went to Japan, I had a fair amount of anxiety about speaking Japanese without prior preparation and especially struggled with being put on the spot,” shared Abigail Fowler, who majored in international studies major at Iowa. “Now, thanks to language immersion, it flows out of my mouth as easily as English. Being able to make friends and live everyday life in Japan made me realize that I knew more of the language than I thought, and I feel so much more confident with my language learning going forward.” 

5. Cultivating independence and personal growth 

Studying abroad challenges you to step out of your comfort zone, fostering independence, resilience, adaptability, and personal growth. While abroad, you’ll still find the support you need to navigate this transformative journey from UI staff. Your UI Study Abroad Advisor will support you pre-departure, while in country, and after your return. 

"Studying abroad will challenge you in ways you’ve never experienced before, but you will be undeniably better because of it."

"My study abroad experience gave me so much more confidence in moving throughout the world, increased my intercultural competency, and taught me so much about myself,” shared Connor French, who studied abroad in on a faculty-led program to Greece in 2022 and at Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand in spring 2023. “I’ve come out of the experience knowing that I can handle tough and uncertain situations, as well as working with a variety of people from different backgrounds. Studying abroad will challenge you in ways you’ve never experienced before, but you will be undeniably better because of it.” 

6. Strategic advantage on your resume and career path 

Studying abroad is not just an adventure but a strategic move for future success. It's a unique addition to your resume that highlights qualities such as adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and a global perspective – qualities highly valued by employers. The Pomerantz Career Center provides resources for Iowa students to leverage these skills and use them effectively while interviewing for jobs. The career center offers examples of how students who have studied abroad can highlight their experience on their resume too. 

"I believe that going abroad for a semester was very beneficial because I got the opportunity to work on an internship based on entrepreneurship which taught me many things."

“I believe that going abroad for a semester was very beneficial because I got the opportunity to work on an internship based on entrepreneurship which taught me many things,” said Victor Morales who studied abroad in Lisbon on the CIEE Portugal Program in fall 2023. “This will benefit me in the future when I am applying for jobs after graduation because of the experiences I was able to obtain by going abroad. I am now able to put this global internship on my resume and show that I completed an internship in Portugal.”

7. Creating lasting memories and lifelong friendships 

Whether you're creating memories at historical sites, navigating vibrant markets, or forming lifelong friendships with fellow students from around the world, the University of Iowa's Study Abroad programs prioritize a well-rounded experience. These memories and friendships not only enrich your college experience but also contribute to a global support network rooted in shared experiences. 

"I can’t think of another opportunity where students fly thousands of miles from home, experience a new place together for the first time, and go home feeling as connected and appreciative of the trip as studying abroad does."

"Studying abroad was a really unique opportunity to go to a new country and return with new friends from all over the world.” shared Sarah Dickens, who studied abroad on the USAC Studies in Pau program, in summer 2023. “I can’t think of another opportunity where students fly thousands of miles from home, experience a new place together for the first time, and go home feeling as connected and appreciative of the trip as studying abroad does.”