The Benefits of Learning a New Language While Studying Abroad

2 November 2025

Studying abroad is already a life-changing adventure. You’re immersed in a new culture, making new friends, trying exotic foods, and figuring out how to survive in a foreign land. But there’s one thing that can level up this experience even more — learning the local language.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Isn’t studying abroad hard enough without adding language learning to the mix?” It might sound overwhelming at first, but stick with me. It’s actually one of the smartest things you can do while you’re out there. And no, you don’t need to reach perfection — you just need to start. Let’s break down why learning a new language while studying abroad is not just useful, but downright life-enhancing.

1. You’ll Make Deeper, More Genuine Connections

Sure, you can get by with English in a lot of places. But you’ll miss out on truly connecting with the locals if you don’t speak their language — even just a bit.

Why It Matters:

Imagine trying to really get to know someone when you don’t speak the same language. Sure, hand gestures and awkward giggles will take you far, but they won't help you discuss your favorite childhood memory or share an inside joke.

When you learn the local language, even just conversational phrases, you show respect and effort. People appreciate that. They open up more. They invite you into their lives, their homes, their celebrations. What could’ve been a polite nod in passing becomes a real friendship.

So, if you want to move beyond the tourist bubble and genuinely bond with people, start learning how to say, “How’s your day going?” in their language.

2. Immerse Yourself More Fully in the Culture

Language and culture are like peanut butter and jelly — they just go together. You can’t truly understand one without the other.

Let’s Get Real:

Think about the little things — street signs, local music, menus, memes, subway announcements. They all hide layers of cultural nuance that only make sense when you understand the language behind them.

By learning the language, you get access to:

- Local jokes and humor
- Untranslated books, songs, and movies
- Real conversations in cafés, markets, and on the bus
- Insider knowledge on customs and social cues

It’s like switching from watching a movie on mute to hearing the full soundtrack. Suddenly, everything clicks.

3. Boost Your Academic Success

Whether you're studying business, art history, or microbiology, knowing the local language can give you a serious academic edge.

Here’s How:

- Want to understand your professors better?
- Need to research local sources?
- Want to ask for help without language barriers?

Language skills can help you navigate university life smoothly. Plus, many academic texts or valuable resources might only be available in the country’s primary language — that’s bonus material for your coursework.

And hey, imagine how more confident you'll feel giving a class presentation or participating in group discussions when you can do it in more than one language. It’s like having an academic superpower.

4. Supercharge Your Brainpower

Science backs this up — learning a new language literally makes your brain stronger. It’s like mental CrossFit.

What the Research Says:

- Improves memory
- Enhances problem-solving skills
- Boosts concentration
- Makes multitasking easier
- Delays cognitive decline over time

In other words, your brain becomes sharper the more you use it — and language learning is one of the most intense workouts you can give it.

So next time someone catches you mumbling French verbs under your breath, just tell them you’re building brain muscle. 💪

5. It Looks Impressive on Your Resume

Let’s not forget the practical perks. In today’s global job market, being bilingual (or at least conversational in a second language) is ridiculously valuable.

Employers LOVE:

- Multilingual communication skills
- Cultural awareness
- Flexibility and adaptability
- International experience

Imagine walking into an interview and saying, “Yeah, I studied in Spain and became fluent in Spanish while managing coursework and traveling on weekends.” Boom — instant edge over other candidates.

Even if you don’t use the language in your daily job, employers know that language learners are fast learners, good communicators, and culturally sensitive. That’s gold in any professional setting.

6. Make Everyday Life So Much Easier

Okay, this one’s obvious — but worth repeating. Life abroad just runs smoother when you speak the language. Period.

Think About It:

- Reading signs and understanding announcements
- Shopping without accidentally buying the wrong thing
- Asking for directions and actually understanding the answer
- Ordering food exactly how you want it
- Explaining to the pharmacist what’s wrong with your stomach

You won’t have to rely on Google Translate for every conversation or stress out when you need help. You become independent — and confident.

7. Build a Global Mindset

When you learn a new language, you're not just learning words. You're stepping into a different way of thinking. Language shapes thoughts, ideas, and even priorities.

Broadening Your Worldview:

In some languages, there’s no word for “privacy.” In others, there are 50 words for "love." These aren’t just vocabulary quirks — they show how people see the world.

Learning a new language gives you the tools to understand different perspectives. You start noticing things about your own culture that you never questioned before. It’s like seeing your world from the outside for the first time.

8. It’s Fun, Challenging, and Weirdly Addictive

Not gonna lie — there will be moments when you feel like your brain is melting. Grammar rules can be confusing, pronunciation can be hilarious, and sometimes you’ll mess up in truly embarrassing ways.

But here’s the thing: It’s all part of the adventure.

Every awkward sentence and every small win (like ordering coffee in perfect Italian) feels amazing. It’s an ongoing challenge, and every step forward feels like leveling up in a video game.

You start to crave it. One language leads to another. Before you know it, you’re the person who casually mentions, “Oh yeah, I picked up a bit of Portuguese while I was living in Brazil.”

9. Better Travel Experiences

Even outside your host city, knowing the language opens up so many doors. Whether you're backpacking across Europe or exploring rural towns in Asia, a little bit of the local language goes a long way.

You won’t be “just another tourist.” Locals will treat you differently — better — when they see you're making an effort to speak their language. Sometimes that means better service, insider tips, or even discounts. It’s like having a key to secret passageways wherever you go.

10. It Builds Confidence Like Nothing Else

Let’s be honest — speaking a foreign language in public can be scary. You might stutter, mispronounce, or even accidentally insult someone (true story: someone once told a Spanish waiter "Estoy embarazada" thinking it meant "I'm embarrassed"… it actually means "I'm pregnant").

But every time you push past the fear and try anyway, you grow. You prove to yourself that you can tackle big challenges, embrace awkward moments, and come out stronger.

Confidence doesn’t come from perfection — it comes from courage. And language learning is full of those courageous moments that shape who you become.

Pro Tips: How to Learn a Language While Abroad (Without Losing Your Mind)

Let’s wrap this up with some quick, practical tips to make language learning work for you while you study abroad.

1. Talk to Everyone

Start with “hello,” then build from there. Say yes to local conversations, even if they’re messy.

2. Make Mistakes Loudly

You’ll mess up. Embrace it. Mistakes are the fastest way to learn.

3. Use Apps and Flashcards

Duolingo, Anki, Memrise — use them daily, even for just 10 minutes.

4. Watch TV and Listen to Music in the Language

It’s fun and helps with pronunciation and slang.

5. Label Everything

Put sticky notes on your stuff — “mirror,” “notebook,” “desk.” It rewires your brain to think in the language.

6. Join Language Meetups or Tandem Exchanges

Meet locals who want to practice English and help you learn their language. It’s a win-win.

Final Thoughts

Learning a new language while studying abroad isn’t just about communication — it’s about transformation. It changes how you think, how you connect with others, and how you see the world.

It’s not always easy. It takes time, patience, and lots of courage. But the rewards? They last a lifetime.

So go ahead — dive into the local language. Trust me, your future self will thank you.