10 Reasons You Should Study Abroad In Asia

Kelley undergraduate students Natalie Moore and Cameron Halsted spent a semester living and studying in Hong Kong. We asked them to team up to share with us their top reasons why business students should study abroad in Asia.

1. Prep For Future International Business Opportunities.

Asia is home to several developing nations that will be critical in the next decade for all business practices. This is your chance to get to know Asia’s consumers. Future employers will value your on-the-ground knowledge.

2. Meet New People And Hear Different Points Of View.

During class, your classmates will discuss politics, business strategies and current events relevant to Asia. Listen and learn.

3. Collecting Maps Is Cool.

Nothing says “world traveler” like maps all over your bedroom walls. Stock up.

4. Learn To Communicate Without English.

A smile is international. Be open and friendly, and use your phone to translate when you encounter a language barrier.

5. Gain A Fresh Perspective.

Every time you are confronted with a cultural difference, be curious about it. This is your opportunity to be in a culture but not of the culture.

6. Local Cuisine Will Blow Your Mind.

When in Rome, or Beijing, right? Expand your palate and try the funky chicken feet, or duck gizzards, or that thingy on the street cart. You might like it, or at least you’ll get a good story to tell.

7. Challenge Yourself And Your Beliefs.

We naturally seek comfortable situations, but when we are uncomfortable, we are pushed to understand why we do the things we do and we learn why others do what they do.

8. Mad Photo Opps.

Forget about looking touristy—photograph everything. You’ll want to remember the details when you get home.

9. Travel Around Asia.

When is the next time you will have the opportunity to go to Asia? Unless you are lucky enough to travel internationally for business, the answer may be never.

10. The View.