I’m currently a first semester junior at a SUNY School in New York. I’m also an international student here coming from Asia. Fortunately, I got into Oxford’s Study Abroad program through my college’s Oxford program and have the opportunity to go next semester.
This however, is a very expensive opportunity and will burn a huge hole in my parents’ pockets. I know studying abroad can be good for your personality and for you to grow as a person, but will it at all stand out on my resume? Do employers think students studying for a semester at Oxford somehow stand out a little more than other students in the United States?
Also, is Oxford going to help your case better in comparison to other universities you can study abroad at? Do employers care about what college you studied abroad in, or is going to a cheaper alternative that is not as well ranked going to be a better option for me?
Don’t really think so. Employers are aware that where you study abroad is mostly a matter of money and personal preference. It might add some sparkle to your resume, but most employers seem to consider study abroad an extended vacation in any case.
^ err, depends on what field you want to go into and where you study. Adaptability, flexibility given by immersion in other perspectives, understanding of another culture, when relevant foreign language fluency, networking …are all relevant to the job market. However it’s up to the student to show what skills were gained, what was done, how the time abroad had an impact that will make the employee a net positive for the company.
I think in general terms, it might give you a very slight edge when interviewing with global-oriented companies over someone otherwise equally qualified, but at least it gives you something to talk about in interviews. I agree, if you are an international student it likely adds little luster to you because you already tick that box.