Study Abroad develops many life and work skills. Author and study abroad professional Rich Kurtzman highlights ten "cultural superpowers" study abroad students tend to develop in Like a Fish in Water: How to Grow Abroad When You Go Abroad (2022). Number one on that list? Adaptability.
As study abroad returnees and professionals, we see this as essential for a successful study abroad experience. But what is it? Here is how Kurtzman defines it:
Adaptability
You have the ability to be more spontaneous; to not fear a change of plans or a situation that is completely unknown or ambiguous; to face unfamiliar situations and accept change with a sense of humor. (p.104)
When you study abroad, things will not go according to plan much of the time. In fact, this is perhaps one of the biggest life lessons and your ability to adapt are what help you to grow through the challenges inherent in studying abroad. These unanticipated events will range from obstacles to serendipitous opportunities, but you have to be open to experience them.
Can you deal with uncertainty? Does difference stimulate your curiosity?
Your ability to adapt to a new setting will help you further develop empathy, intellectual curiosity, and resilience, among other things. And these will be useful in your academic and professional careers, but also in your relationships, your community, or even where you might be a member of an religious or other organization. Study abroad is usually a key experience for developing adaptability.
