Studying Abroad or Studying Alive by Alexis

Studying Abroad or Studying Alive by Alexis - March 2016 Scholarship Essay

As a student in high school, travelling and wandering the world, for pure enjoyment, is a blissful dream. However, studying abroad is about so much more than just being able to travel. One gets the chance to learn the ins and outs of a specific culture, and perhaps how they might benefit from incorporating the culture’s ways into their own lives. Although it is offered at most colleges and/or universities, studying abroad programs should indeed be required. Students gain so much from seeing the world through the eyes of another culture.
In my junior year of high school, during spring break, I had the opportunity to travel to Costa Rica with a group of classmates. There was so much more to the adventure than just physically being there. Although saying I’ve been to Costa Rica is pretty fun to mention, it meant much more than that to be there. Hearing stories, studying their species and habitat, learning hilarious phrases in their language, it’s all part of the experience. I was able to participate in a variety of hands-on learning and see the outstanding country in person. When I returned home to Washington state it was easy to think about how I can change my ways of life; appreciating nature and what it has to offer more, never taking for granted the clothes, shelter, and food provided for me. The most significant element I took away from my trip was to live life a day at a time, and not to worry about what could happen tomorrow or the next day. The entirety of the time I spent there I noticed how happy everyone was, the constant sun might have helped, but there was no doubt people were happier than most of the ones I see at home.
For a student to be exposed to these kind of environments, is like opening up a box with a new beginning. I believe requiring study abroad programs will enhance students’ lives in many ways that might not be available in their own community. Being a well-rounded individual that also has spectacular social skills, are some of the key characteristics employers look for when hiring. Therefore, if a college student has had some kind of study abroad under their belt, this shows that the individual is capable of working outside of their comfort zone and is more likely to gain a new job position.