The Extra Chapter by Caitlyn

The Extra Chapter by Caitlyn - March 2016 Scholarship Essay

French baguettes, the Eiffel Tower, and people in striped shirts are often associated with the city of Italy. People often omit the beautiful architecture and style of the buildings, or the calm, dazzling water that flows peacefully. They omit these things, however, simply because many have never been outside the limits of their own country. They have been sheltered from experiencing life in another part of the world.
For this reason of ignorance, I think college students should be required to study abroad. While the finances are costly, I believe the rewards are worth every penny. Not only is the student experiencing a different lifestyle, they are learning important, real world concepts. For example, an architect major traveling to Ancient Rome can study the intricate buildings while learning about their unique style from local architects. Another student, studying environment, can visit Denmark and seek solutions and answers he or she cannot find at home. The possibilities are endless, and the education is of great importance. Studying abroad would not only allow for personal growth through experience, but it would open a whole new chapter in the student's textbook. While others will argue the high risk or expenditures for something like a vacation is irresponsible and time consuming, I would choose to counter that argument. If everyone thought that way, we might still think the earth was flat. Travel gives us insight we cannot attain any other way. It provides knowledge and understanding in ways a book cannot. Everyone should be given the opportunity to read the extra chapter in their book before they have to return it.