The challenges that come with language barriers, making new friends and navigating different cultures not only fuel growth, but they also make for a great story—one that stands out on a post-secondary application. In today’s globalized society, it takes more than good academic standings to be a standout candidate amongst peers; the value gained while studying abroad can help land some students at the top of the admissions pile.
Blyth Academy international study programs are designed for today’s high school students. We believe earning credits while being immersed in different cultures, and experiencing the challenges and rewards of travelling as teenagers, strengthens character and creates effective leaders. Post-secondary schools and employers often recognize students who studied abroad as being more adaptable, independent and well rounded.
Learning to be Adaptable
Travelling abroad while completing high school credits really brings learning to life and forgoes the traditional classroom dynamic. Imagine studying art history in the Louvre in Paris, Functions on the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, or Biology in Airlie Beach in Australia; the environment becomes the classroom and the cultures become the lesson. Students who study abroad develop the ability to adjust to different situations in new environments, whether navigating the transit system in a new country, ordering lunch in a different language, or studying for exams while setting sail on the Adriatic Sea.
Learning to be Culturally Sensitive
Studying abroad is more than travelling. Students aren’t just visiting new countries; they’re living the life of locals as much as possible. Learning about the history, foods, customs, and values are all part of the immersion process. The ability to coexist with different people makes students culturally sensitive at a young age, which is so important in our globalized world.
Learning A Global Mindset
During some of our programs abroad, students get the opportunity to earn community service hours by volunteering in local communities in need. This March Break, students are heading to Peru and Costa Rica to work with animals, children and take part in revitalizing projects. The experiences are designed to open their eyes to other cultures and ways of life, as well as challenges faced in developing countries. Gaining great knowledge of the world expands their understanding and informs their perspectives on things like social issues and international conflicts.
Learning to be Independent
Travelling as a group of students, without parents, gives teenagers the confidence to adapt to situations and problem solve. Learning to rely on themselves for laundry, eating, and sleeping (with the supervision of school staff), gives students a chance to assert themselves, make mistakes and learn—invaluable lessons they will take with them to post-secondary school and beyond. Leaving the high school bubble behind, and even travelling without friends, forces students to get outside of their comfort zone, try new things, and meet new people.
Learning to Communicate
While travelling through different cultures, students quickly become savvy at communicating with people who speak different languages. Getting to know gestures, respectable customs, and even learning new languages makes them comfortable communicating with others and making networking connections that may be beneficial down the road.
Blyth Academy International Summers programs offer students grades 9 to 12 over 25 programs in over 30 countries. March Break Community Service programs travel to Central and South America for hands-on volunteer work and outdoor adventure. Our Global High School program travels the world for four terms to Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and Central and South America. We offer learning experiences in safe environments that go beyond any classroom education at home. Our goal is to help develop well-rounded young adults.
Adding world experience to high school education can change the course of a student’s academics and inspire career aspirations. We encourage you to visit us at blythacademy.ca/international for all of our study abroad opportunities.
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