Studying Abroad: A Choice Or A Requirement by Breanna

Studying Abroad: A Choice Or A Requirement by Breanna - March 2016 Scholarship Essay

I believe that studying abroad has many benefits and should be highly encouraged, but I do not think it should be a requirement. If it is part of the curriculum, it may discourage students who prefer not to travel abroad for school. More importantly, it may be challenging for those who have disabilities and are unable to move to a foreign country.

As someone who is hearing impaired, I rely heavily on reading lips. This would be difficult to do in a country that does not speak English. I certainly would not let my impairment prevent me from studying abroad. I know there are many English speaking countries from which to choose. However, there may be students with other types of disabilities or handicaps that prevent them from moving to a foreign country.

It was very challenging for me to learn Spanish in high school. I knew I needed the required two years, so I pushed through and did it. After struggling through my first year of Spanish, I enrolled in an online class for Spanish II so I could turn up the computer as loud as I needed. I know that living in a Spanish speaking country would be difficult at first, but it would improve my language skills and make me more marketable to future employers.

I feel that all students should have the opportunity to learn about the benefits of studying abroad in their freshman year of college. By interacting with the people of that country, students can learn about their customs and culture. They can experience different types of foods and see things they have never seen. As someone who plans on majoring in Sociology, I would like to learn about the obstacles others face in their society. Perhaps learning how people live abroad would make students more grateful for things we often take for granted.

There is so much for students to see and learn outside the classroom when studying in other countries. I believe that if colleges took the initiative to educate their students, it would become more prevalent.

The thought of studying abroad may sound exciting to some while scary for others. By learning to overcome fears and be independent, however, young people will grow as a person and become stronger for future endeavors.