Attending summer camps abroad is an excellent experience for you as an international student. It allows you to dip your toes into a different culture and get a glimpse of what life is like in another country.
Summer camps are a time of adventure and meaningful learning. Aside from making new friends, you can also develop important life skills when you participate in these summer activities.
Summer camps offer essential educational, personal, and social benefits. Here are some reasons why you shouldn’t miss the chance to attend a summer camp abroad.
Appreciate and Learn Cultures From All Over the World
International summer camps are usually packed with students from different parts of the world.
These students are often eager to share their stories from their home county.
When you attend a summer camp, you can listen and learn about the culture of different countries. This helps you establish an appreciation of lifestyles, and also fosters sensitivity, diversity, and inclusivity.Â
According to the Century Foundation, students who have been exposed to people who have different cultural backgrounds, develop better cognitive skills, improve critical thinking, and have greater problem-solving skills.Â
If you have these skills, you are well-armed to take over the real world. You’ll be more accepting of difference, and hopefully, would learn not to discriminate against others.Â
Develop Independence and Self-RelianceÂ
If you have to want to study abroad for a long time, a summer camp provides the perfect opportunity to practice independence. You are far away from your family and friends from home, and technically, you’re on your own. Being independent is an important skill that you must have before studying abroad.
Being on your own also allows you to track your own progress. Just don’t forget to be as helpful to others as you are with yourself.Â
Learn a New Language
Wouldn’t it be cool to leave home for summer camp then come back speaking a new language?Â
Summer camps are attended by students who speak in different tongues. Say “good morning” or “hello” in your language, then ask another camper how they say it in their language. It’s a great conversation starter, and also a very fun way to get more friends
Obviously, you wouldn’t learn past the basics of another language. But imagine how great these stories are to share. You can tell your friends at home that you learned how to say “take care” in French, or “see you soon” in Chinese.Â
Have a Memorable and Fun Experience
Remember that summer camps are for adventure and fun. Don’t get yourself worked up wanting to learn important skills fast, as they are better learned naturally.
Some camps are learning-based or are focused on a particular area of study. For example, there are language summer camps that concentrate on making students learn a new language.
But a lot of these also value your happiness. You cannot learn happiness anywhere. Summer camps foster a different level of joy and satisfaction that you’ll carry with you for the rest of your educational journey.Â
Attending summer camps is a wonderful and meaningful experience for students. Read our articles here at MSMUnify to be geared up for your next summer camp experience!