10 things I learned studying abroad at NYU Abu Dhabi for 4 years

Studying abroad, whether for a semester or for 4 years, can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your adolescence.

The benefits of studying in another country are numerous and cited by many renowned educational institutions (including Hult International Business School and Kaplan Pathways):

1. Traveling to new cities and visiting famous historical sites
2. Developing the skills to live independently in a foreign setting
3. Building stronger communication skills by navigating cultural differences and nuances
4. Making personal and professional connections across the globe
5. Learning new languages and using them in their respective locales
6. Discovering new interests, hobbies, and potential career paths
7. Honing your academic interests where geographically and culturally relevant

Though there are some disadvantages to studying abroad, such as the undeniably high costs of living in many countries, the almost inevitable culture shock and language barriers, and the homesickness that eventually settles in, most people you ask will say that their time studying abroad was life-changing.

For context, my study abroad experience spans the 4 years of my undergraduate education at NYU Abu Dhabi, in the capital of the United Arab Emirates. I moved from Florida to the UAE in 2016, shortly after…