How studying abroad changes the way you see yourself
In an interview with Studyportals, Dr. Wayne Johnson, Director of International Affairs at NHL Stenden University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands, shares his personal experiences and insights into the benefits of studying abroad. He worked as a teacher and headmaster in South Africa before becoming Director of International Affairs at NHL Stenden. His research looks at what students learn from studying abroad and how universities can offer some of those benefits to students who do not go abroad.
Dr. Johnson grew up in apartheid South Africa, where he dreamed of travelling despite the restrictions that shaped his life. At 24, he set off to see the world with just a backpack on his shoulders. Abroad, he met people who were interested in him without judging him by his background or the colour of his skin. That experience changed both how he saw the world and, most importantly, how he saw himself.
In this Studyportals Campus Conversations interview, Dr. Johnson shares his story and discusses the changes students notice after studying abroad, sometimes only when family and friends point them out. He explains how NHL Stenden supports around 1,000 students each year through its Grand Tour programme and how universities can bring international learning to those who cannot travel. Throughout our conversation, we return to a question: what do you learn about yourself when you leave familiar surroundings?
