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IMPACT OF EXCHANGE PARTICIPATION
For participating NSE students, the year on exchange is usually the most significant and enjoyable year in their education. Students return home with a fresh outlook on their education and future. It is also a year of dramatic personal growth and maturity, particularly for students who are not well-traveled or have lived most of their lives in the region where they are attending college. Students frequently return from exchange with:
- more self-confidence and independence,
- greater decision-making skills,
- more flexibility and maturity,
- and more clearly defined academic, career, and personal goals.
After returning to their home environment, it is not unusual for NSE students to consider participation in a study abroad program as well as graduate school and employment opportunities outside of their home region. Like study abroad, NSE is an enhancement of the student’s undergraduate program, demonstrating to graduate schools and future employers that they have gone beyond the expected. The changes seen in student attitudes, understanding of other people in other settings, maturity, risk-taking, and decision-making are similar to the experiences of students who study internationally.
"NSE has opened countless doors for our students by providing opportunities offered by no other program. I’ve watched students go outbound from Alaska to Denmark and return with newly inspired levels of confidence, maturity, and the ability to navigate new systems and cultures. They take full advantage of new courses and resources, exploring and broadening their educations in every possible way. It’s an experience that serves well beyond their college years."
Cathy Cuthbertson
NSE Coordinator
and Director, Career Services and
Off-Campus Studies
New College of Florida
"I see a significant change in students returning from exchange. Suddenly they are more aware of possibilities outside of their previous experience. I also see a new courage and confidence that comes from having traveled and adjusted to new cultural and learning environments. What I really love is the exponential increase in enthusiasm for ‘what’s next – where else can I go’ and their determination to make the most of the wide range of opportunities they know exist."
Edie Blakley
NSE Coordinator
and Assistant to the Director, Career Services
Oregon State University
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