granada photo
The trip to Morocco was phenomenal. What we saw, who we talked with, where we traveled - all opened my eyes to a completely different world. I reveled in the amazing colors and scents in the marketplace, and enjoyed how unique this world is, even though it is only separated from Spain and Europe by 14 kilometers of sea.
– Stacey Martell
Pacific University

resume information

Employers are looking for applicants with international experience because they have acquired skills and experienced personal growth that goes far beyond the walls of a traditional college classroom. Yet only 1-2 percent of all American college or university students study abroad for a semester or longer. Increase your marketability through your experience abroad.

Make sure that your experience abroad stands out in your resume by including information on the following:

  • Internships
  • Service-learning
  • Language immersion
  • Homestays

Consider the skills or qualities below. Do any of them describe what you learned or how you changed during your study abroad experience? Use specific examples or situations in your resume to demonstrate the particular skills or qualities that describe your experiences. It isn’t enough to claim that the experience “changed my life.” Make sure you answer “how” it changed your life. Below are many of the qualities students gain during the study abroad experience:

  • Understand cultural differences and similarities
  • Flexibility
  • Communicate despite barriers
  • Accept responsibility
  • Time management
  • Willing to take risks
  • Ability to handle stress
  • Conduct research despite language and cultural differences
  • Self-reliance
  • Self-confidence
  • Assertiveness
  • Open-minded
  • Goal oriented
  • Resourceful
  • Motivated
  • Positive outlook
  • Adventurous, curious