Studying abroad my junior year at the University of Hertfordshire in England has opened up numerous opportunities for me. Not only does my resume stand out, but I also have the opportunity to make a difference in other students' lives by encouraging them to study abroad.

Through a year abroad I was able to learn about independence, problem solving and flexibility - all attributes that many employers look for in candidates. Living in a new culture allowed me to become more aware of global issues and see the US from a new perspective. I was also able to recognize cultural similarities and adapt to cultural differences. Even though many students think that the UK and the US are very similar, there are still a ton of differences.

After my year in England, I was able to gain an internship with a top ranked oil and gas company thanks to my ability to demonstrate problem-solving and forward-looking skills. Being versatile and willing to relocate also made a huge difference when employers were looking for candidates. My employer later said this was a key factor in their search for intern candidates.

I will also be taking part in a paid internship in London this summer between my undergraduate and graduate degrees. I did not think I had the ability to achieve this feat. I applied on a whim, since I had already applied the previous year and was unsuccessful. I believe the skills I gained living in England enabled me to stand out from the other applicants. It's amazing what one year studying abroad can do!

Before I studied abroad, I did not fathom the possibility of a highly competitive paid internship in London, nor that I would get into one of the most competitive graduate programs at City University in London. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it. It is incredible how what was once only an idea can turn your life around and give you an abundance of opportunities here in the US and internationally! Studying abroad was one of the best decisions of my life.

I cannot think of anything but "definitely yes" in response to whether one should study abroad. Through going abroad I was be able to make connections all over the world. I have already made many friends from my year abroad who have given me contacts that I would never have imagined. As a result of my year abroad I was able to gain the position of British Council Student Ambassador for Oklahoma State University. Through this position I've had the great opportunity to meet the Consul General from New York and the Consul General and Vice Consul from Houston. Being a British Council Student Ambassador has also allowed me to share my experiences with numerous students and advise them on studying abroad.

Thanks to my initial experience abroad, I am now looking forward to returning to the UK as a summer intern and graduate student this fall.

What the UK has to offer you

Lauren joined one of 37,000 US students who chose to study in the UK last year. With 30,000 US students on year- or semester-long programs, it is the most popular destination for study abroad. The UK offers you a quality, internationally recognized education in one of the most exciting and diverse cultures in the world, with the advantages of a common language and historical links with the US.

With four countries in one, the UK offers an amazing number and range of study abroad programs. Study contemporary film for a summer, European history for a year or high-tech programming for a semester at a cutting-edge institution.

Here's what the UK has to offer you:

Experience a real UK education: Immerse yourself in the UK culture by living and studying with British students. There's nothing like being a part of the local student community to help you understand the UK and Europe.

Diversity of choice: Studying in the UK allows you to customize your program. If spending a full academic year abroad doesn't suit your schedule, what about a semester or summer program instead? And from contemporary film to government devolution, a wide array of courses are available at UK universities. With four countries in one, you have a diverse range of options to chose from both geographically and academically.

International reputation: A UK education has global respect and a well-deserved reputation for quality and high standards. As well as gaining an internationally renowned education, you can boost your career prospects and earnings potential when your studies are complete. Stand out from the crowd by adding the UK to your resume.

Ease of choosing a program: A large number of organized exchange and study abroad programs operate between the UK and the US. Many British institutions invite students to apply directly to their study abroad programs. You also can go on a program run by a US college or university that has links or an exchange agreement with a UK institution. We also have a searchable database of study abroad programs on our website to help you find just the right program.

Affordability: The UK is not as expensive as you might think! You can bring your US Federal Aid Loans with you to the UK, for use at over 100 universities. Many UK institutions also offer scholarships. To help with living expenses, international students can also work up to 20 hours during the school term and up to 40 hours during vacations.

Live the European lifestyle: Enhance your experience by participating in a truly multicultural society.

Gain knowledge and independence: Study away from home while living in a safe and stimulating environment.

Get the support you need: UK institutions offer complete student support services, including international offices and resources for students with disabilities.

Explore the UK and Europe: The UK offers cultural and geographical diversity with quick and economical access around the country and to the rest of Europe.

Be on the cutting edge: In addition to history and heritage, the UK is a trendsetter in music, fashion and design. Whether it is Prince William, Stella McCartney or Coldplay, the UK has something to offer everyone.

For more information on UK study opportunities, a searchable program database, funding and scholarships, and student life check out www.studyintheuk.org.