Expand the Horizons by Brianna

Expand the Horizons by Brianna - March 2016 Scholarship Essay

Sometimes the most enjoyable and memorable moments in life are the ones where individuals take risks and do something out of the ordinary. Experiencing what life has to offer outside of one’s ‘bubble’ is important at a young age. There is so much to see in the world, and so much that people don’t know about. That is why college students should be required to study abroad. College is a time when people start figuring out what kind of an individual they are, and there is not a more perfect time to learn about the different cultures around the world.
I, myself, have never studied abroad, but I do know many people who have had the opportunity to experience the lifestyle of another country. I have never heard of one person complain about how awful of an experience it was for them. It is always interesting hearing about the differences of America and the country my friends and family visited: the food, culture, mannerisms, education system, etc. Not only can college students learn about the characteristics of another country, but they are also able to learn more about themselves. Friendships are created, time is spent away from home, and new interests and hobbies may have sparked while studying abroad. All of those experiences can lead to new possibilities in college. For example, there may be clubs offered at the college that the individual can join and get to know other students in the club.
If I have the resources to study abroad while I am in college, I would take advantage of the once in a lifetime opportunity. Studying abroad is such a powerful experience that every college student should be required to take part in. It would help students shape into the people they want to become and experience new things. If every college student were to study abroad, everyone would have a new perspective on life. One does not fully live until he or she takes a little bit of a risk.