Essay 251 – International student exchange would be beneficial for all students

GT Writing Task 2 / Essay Sample # 251

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some educators think that international student exchange would be beneficial for all students while others disagree.

Do you think that the advantages of the student exchange policy outweigh its disadvantages?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer:

Many academics believe that international student exchange programs would reap considerable benefits to all students, while others refute the idea. This essay expresses that the benefits of foreign pupil exchange policy are far greater than its drawbacks because it enables students to learn a new language, culture, and broaden their perspectives, while also boosts their employability.

The main disadvantage of the international student exchange program is the expense of studying abroad. Since it is expensive, it excludes many students, especially from less developed countries. Living abroad usually requires a substantial amount of money depending on the living standard of the host nation. Aside from admission and tuition fees, studying abroad requires a substantial amount of money for travel, food, accommodation, treatment, entertainment and so on. For example, if someone does not have health insurance, all the medical diagnostic tests and medication may cost him or her a fortune. Culture shock is another problem among exchange students. Apart from the language barrier, a student is likely to encounter strange customs, different beliefs, and different paradigms of thought, which can be overwhelming.

On the contrary, one of the significant advantages of foreign exchange is new language acquisition. In simple words, living abroad opens up a golden opportunity to be immersed in the community, which is a key advantage when it comes down to learning a second language. In addition to learning a language, it allows students to experience different perspectives or a new way of life. Moreover, embracing a new culture pushes students beyond their comfort zones, and it is one of the things that transform the experience into something extremely valuable. Not only is studying abroad an excellent opportunity to expand students’ perspectives, but it can also promote their employability. Studying abroad shows employers that the students can adapt to changing situations easily, and they are good problem solvers. Furthermore, a better understanding of different cultures is highly valued in the workplace, particularly in transnational companies.

Looking at both benefits and drawbacks of foreign student exchange program, it seems reasonable to conclude that the disadvantages of student exchange program are eclipsed by its advantages in the sense that it provides valuable experiences, thereby enhancing employability.