What I've Gained from Studying Abroad

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24/1/2018

My studying abroad programme in Coventry University, United Kingdom has finally come to an end. It is undeniable that the past 4 months had been filled with joy, happiness, memories and different experiences. I could not find any reasons to not love this precious opportunity.

A picture of me travelling in Hallstatt, Austria.

In this post, I would like to share a few things I have gained from studying abroad:

 1. Listening skill
My listening skill is the first thing I found out I have improved a lot. I used to rely on subtitles when I am watching videos/movies/short film that is produced by the Americans, British or other countries besides my own homeland, Malaysia and Singapore which has similar accent/slang as we do. Right now, I am able to catch up words easily without subtitles or in a conversation with others. This skill really made me on cloud nine now as I used to feel upset that I am bad in listening.


2. Speaking skill
I have tremendously gained COURAGE to speak! It sounds exaggerated but I am not. Staying 10,612 km away from home forced me to settle everything all by myself. I began to speak to any superiors when I faced obstacles, speak to bank officer to open an account, speak to strangers for directions, speak to customer services to get assistance. Back to days before I came to UK, I need to pluck up my courage before I speak to others face to face or on the phone but now, these actions can be done easily.


3. Adaptability
Like duh, adaptability is definitely on the list. Moving to a foreign place requires me to work out in adjusting myself in a new environment. No matter in my accommodation, my university or any places I have been to. For example, I only have a small box of space for myself, I have to share toilets/bathroom/kitchens with strangers, I have to pick up a new way of communicating, I have to follow the rules and regulations that I have never encountered before in my country and etc. All these had strengthened my ability and flexibility to adapt.


4. Intercultural communication
Coventry University has a high percentage of international students, I can easily make international friends over here (not that I have made many new friends, just a few of them). Learning and working in a multicultural environment had enhance my intercultural communication. It enables me to differ the cultures context, enables me to understand each of us has our own distinct communication and interaction skills. We just need time to understand each other better. I really learnt a lot from working in a diverse team and I also hope the friendships I have made in the UK will last forever. Side note: I highly recommend everyone to read Erin Meyer's book, The Culture Map (2014) to explore more about professional communication skills (Thanks to Mr Warren Potlock for introducing this book to his students).


5. Personal growth
Independence, maturity, self-confidence, broaden worldview, problem-solving skills and anything you name it. All these aspects turned me into a better person and I felt more valuable of myself.


Last but not least, I thank my parents for giving me this chance to explore the world.

OHYA, ANOTHER SIGNIFICANT THING I'VE FORGOTTEN TO MENTION!! I'VE GAINED....  WEIGHT AND A SUPER ROUND FACE! HAHAHA

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