Foreign Exchange during MBA - Why should you choose or not choose it???
I am currently studying 2nd year MBA at IIM Bangalore. Term 5 is the period where students go on foreign exchange. The decision to choose or not choose is a very critical one. After having heard and experienced the pros and cons, I decided to blog this, to help the future gen decide.
I have friends who have regretted the decision after going on foreign exchange, some have enjoyed it. A few others are happy with the decision of staying back. So lets break it down.
When should you go on Foreign exchange?
- If you want to experience global education and want it on your resume
- If you love travelling, people hardly go on forex for actual education, but more for fun and trips
- If you have a group of friends or can easily make one
- If you like adventures and exploration
When should you not go on exchange?
- If you hate travelling
- If you donot like solo travelling and need your friends or cant make friends easily
- If you cant adjust to different weather, environment, food easily
- If you feel its better to go on vacation(pun unintended) post education than during
Table for your analysis:
| Aspect | Benefits of Exchange | Drawbacks of Exchange |
| Global Exposure & Experience | Immersive Cultural Experience: Live and study in a new country, gaining deep insights into another culture. | Limited Depth: One term is short; you might only scratch the surface of the new culture and academic system. |
| Expanded Network | Wider Professional Network: Connect with new peers, faculty, and local professionals at the host institution, broadening your global contacts. | Divided Loyalty/Focus: You might miss out on deeper connections and networking opportunities at your home institution during that term. |
| Academic Specialization | Access to Unique Courses: Take specialized courses or focus on regional business practices not offered at your home institution. | Potential Curriculum Mismatch: Course equivalents might be tricky; you might miss required courses or have to take less relevant ones at the host school. |
| Personal Growth | Increased Adaptability & Resilience: Navigating a new environment, language, and academic system builds valuable soft skills. | Adjustment Period: Time spent adjusting to a new environment, language, and academic system can detract from maximizing the experience. |
| Resume Enhancement | Differentiator on Resume: Shows global perspective, adaptability, and initiative, which can be attractive to international employers. | Cost Considerations: While tuition is usually covered by home school, travel, visa, and living expenses in a new country can add up significantly. |
| Career Exploration | Test New Markets: Explore potential career paths or geographic markets without committing to a full degree. | Impact on Recruitment: For highly structured recruitment cycles (e.g., investment banking, consulting), being away can make on-campus recruiting more challenging. |
| Language Skills | Opportunity for Language Practice: Immersion can significantly improve foreign language skills. | Language Barrier Challenges: If you don't speak the local language, it can hinder daily life and deeper cultural immersion. |
| Fun & Travel | Travel Opportunities: Excellent chance to explore a new region or continent during weekends and breaks. | Logistical Hassles: Dealing with visas, housing, travel, and administrative processes can be time-consuming and stressful. |
Comments
Post a Comment