International Student Exchange Programs. Enhancing Global Understanding

Research Paper from the year 2015 in the subject English - Miscellaneous, Mohamed I University (Faculty of letters and human sciences), course: English literature, language: English, abstract: Based on my personal experiences and other students' testimonies and feedback, this work presents the benefits of international programs to students, and explains how this helps us, citizens of this world, to build mutual understanding.§This monograph is addressed to the public, mainly university students from all over the world, and professors who are interested in the topic.§§Today's students' understanding of foreign cultures is usually shaped by social media. Although some of them are aware of the importance of overcoming stereotypes and studying other nations' traditions and lifestyles, only few dare to go on exchanges.§§Travelling could be quite challenging especially for youths in developing countries, yet, this does not mean it is impossible to leave one's home country for the sake of discovering the world and learning what cannot be taught in a classroom.§§International exchange programs are programs where students go overseas either for a long term or a short term, in order to explore the host country's educational system, culture and values. In exchange, they get to share their own cultures and traditions, enhance their knowledge and start seeing things from a different perspective.§§It is undisputed that the majority of students who go abroad gain a rich understanding of other cultures and experience the stimulation of completing a part of their education in a different approach to learning. They get to develop their self confidence and their sense of self reliance, and make new friendships that allow them to see the world through new eyes.§Students should be aware of the benefits of going taking part of such exchanges. In fact, many alumni realize the importance of international experience only when it is too late, and they wish they had taken the opportunity to study abroad.