“I see that you traveled to Ireland and Scotland when you were a student at Henderson State University. How does this experience make you a better candidate for this job/program?”
What I've learned is most important about studying abroad is the importance of flexibility. Whether it be cultural differences, schedule changes, or just annoying companions, the best thing a person can be is flexible. Roll with the punches and problem solve. If you find out you can't make it to a certain event, what will you do instead? The weather was supposed to be warm and sunny, now it is rainy and cold. What do you do? Acquiring this skill transfers into your everyday life, especially your career.
Planning ahead, time management, and being open minded are other skills that I've been able to cultivate while abroad. It is vital to research the place you are going to decide what to pack, what to do, and how to act. Like the saying goes, "Failure to plan is planning to fail." You should always know what you are getting into so that you have room for flexibility.
Time management is crucial, especially on a trip as packed as this one was. You need to allocate your time wisely. Having your time well managed is also a sign of respect.
Keeping your mind open is the only way to survive cultures abroad. They live differently than us and that is just fine. Don't be the arrogant American and refuse to embrace the local environment. The problem with most people is that they take everything too personally. It is not always about you. Step out of your comfort zone every once and while. You never know what you might learn about yourself!
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