The World That is Hidden Behind Misconception by Bryan

The World That is Hidden Behind Misconception by Bryan - March 2016 Scholarship Essay

Most teenagers, I included, restrict ourselves to view the world that is placed directly in front of us. We see the world that is manipulated by social medias and the opinions of others. The study abroad program is such a great opportunity for students because it allows you to look beyond the wonders of technology. The Study Abroad Program has many benefits, for instance; it can strengthen a language you aspire to master, open your eyes to problems bigger than your own, and can be an excellent way to make friends that last a lifetime. When asked to consider a study abroad program one might form a misconception; Believing that an attempt to obtain an education in a foreign country is overwhelming because while adapting to your environment you must also gain an education. This misconception is only a misunderstanding if you use the study abroad program appropriately. This program should not be used as a time of isolation to bury your head in a mountain of books, however, should be utilized as an opportunity to explore the complexities of the world while gaining an education at the same time.

There are over seven billion people in this world, yet it is extremely challenging to find friends with qualities similar to my own. I am blessed with a handful of friends, and I feel like the key to our friendship is the differences we bring to the table. However, I spent twelve years in my school district and had never encountered someone who was so relatable to me until I met a friend who is a foreign exchange student from Germany. Studying abroad is not only an educational benefit but is a once in a lifetime chance to meet people across the world who have characteristics similar to your own. My foreign friend, Linda, always expresses her gratitude for the study abroad program. America is not what she expected. She came here with a generalization that all Americans were obese, and that she would gain a tremendous amount of weight in America. Linda came to a realization that America is not what she expected when she looked beyond the opinions formed online by living the American life, which resulted in a better understanding of our country. Studying abroad not only can be a good way to find friends but can also be a great way to strengthen a language.

I am a native English speaker, and a foreign language is a requirement at my school. I was initially terrible with Spanish. This lack of talent was not a result of not enough information, however, was a result of not enough repetition. The more people speaking the target language, the more fluent you become. The Study Abroad Program can be beneficial if you choose to go to a country who speaks primarily the language you aspire to speak. You will be emplaced by people who speak the targeted language fluently. One of the many benefits of the program will be exposure to an everyday encounter that will help familiarize you with the targeted structure of a new language.

If ever blessed with the opportunity to attend a study abroad program, take it. It will be a great way to meet new friends, and learn new things. The study abroad program will allow you to a view the truths of the world that are hidden behind misconception, and generalizations.