Working Abroad Experiences Report

Study Notes

Introduction

Around 25% of Hawthorne College students participate in working abroad during summer breaks.
Objective: Analyze benefits and drawbacks to determine if the college should endorse working holidays for students.
Sample size: 100 students interviewed; 23 had prior experience working abroad.

Benefits

Language Skills: Significant improvement in foreign language abilities reported by students who worked in non-English speaking countries, enhancing future job prospects.
Cultural Awareness: Exposure to different cultures fosters open-mindedness and adaptability.
Life Skills: Practical skills gained (e.g., finding accommodation, cooking) contribute to greater independence and self-confidence in personal management.

Drawbacks

Academic Challenges: Students wanting to study during summer break may find it difficult to balance work and study commitments.
Financial Barriers: Major concern; many students struggle with the costs associated with travel, accommodation, and visa requirements.
Low-income Employment: Lack of language fluency may force students into lower-paying jobs, making it hard to cover living expenses.

Conclusion and Recommendation

Working abroad can enhance language skills and confidence but may not provide financial stability, essential for supporting academic pursuits.
High travel costs limit access mainly to financially secure students.
Recommendation: The college should consider offering financial assistance to students in need before endorsing working abroad.

Description

This report explores the advantages and disadvantages of students working abroad during the summer holidays. It focuses on the experiences of Hawthorne College students and aims to provide insights on whether the college should promote working holidays.