Graduating high school is an important, memorable achievement. It signifies the start of independence and adulthood. For students who want to take risks, traveling after highschool will amplify this exciting time with life-changing experiences.
Studying away from home has its benefits, starting with personal development. Students learn to navigate unfamiliar cities, which forces them to adapt to new cultures and languages once unknown. From this, they will end up with more independence, something which is vital throughout one’s life.
From an academic point of view, exposure to various models of instruction and global viewpoints are a major benefit to students. The Institute for the International Education of Students states that 97% of students who studied abroad were able to secure a job within a year after graduation in comparison to the 49% of students who stayed local. Employers typically consider international exposure to be a bonus for candidates.
One particular student, Travis Meier, will be moving to the Netherlands after graduating. He is attending Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, and plans to major in International Business. This will allow Meier to build a vast global network, experience global markets, and gain new business perspectives.
Meier and his mom are planning to join his sister, who already lives in the same city as his preferred university. As for the planning process, he claims it is long and challenging mostly because they will need to sell everything in their home. Meier is mostly worried about leaving his friends and family, but says he has plans to frequently visit them during holidays and breaks. When considering the possibility of moving back home, he states, “I do not know if I will ever return to the U.S. Since I now have EU access, I will take any opportunity that presents itself”.
One thing that Meier does not have to worry about is needing to learn a new language before moving to another country. “Theoretically people in the Netherlands speak Dutch, but we will move to Maastricht, which is already a really international city,” he says. “This will make the process a lot easier”.
Meier had been waiting seven years to receive his Italian passport, but he just recently received it. This gives him the opportunity to live anywhere in the EU. From the Netherlands, Meier can hop on a bus or train to visit places such as France, Germany, Belgium, or Switzerland in just a couple of hours.
But beyond the practical advantages, everyone can enjoy the excitement for the journey ahead. Exploring new places, making friends, tasting new foods, and learning firsthand about other cultures will create memories of a lifetime.
Graduating high school is just the start. Studying and traveling abroad is one of the best ways to celebrate becoming an adult. It invites students to get ready to take on the future with passion and adventure. For those who get the chance, it’s a risk worth taking—and one that leaves a lasting impact.
