Making Students Career Ready Through Experiential Learning Abroad

The purpose of higher education has historically been both clear and highly debated. While it is widely accepted that higher education institutions play a crucial role in exploring, creating, advancing, and disseminating knowledge, the motivations and methods behind these pursuits vary due to a multitude of factors. Additionally, higher education institutions face mounting pressure to align their philosophies, policies, and curricula with broader societal and economic priorities.

In today's globalized and digital world, university graduates need more than strong academic credentials. Despite efforts to improve graduate employability, employers still report skills gaps, suggesting that traditional classroom learning alone is insufficient.

Experiential learning, particularly in international settings, can effectively bridge this gap. Study abroad programs provide students with immersive, real-world experiences that challenge them to think critically, navigate cultural differences, and become more independent. This paper explores how such programs contribute to career readiness and highlights how CIS Abroad uses experiential learning and micro-credentials to equip students with essential workplace skills.