Yes, No, and How? by Ellen

Yes, No, and How? by Ellen - March 2016 Scholarship Essay

The possible benefits of studying abroad are vast and varied. The experience can produce self confidence in new experiences, the broadening of ones comfort zone, new relationships, cultural experience, language experience, artistic broadening, and an overall better understanding of the world. This being said, the opportunity or ability to study abroad is often not possible. Factors such as finances, disabilities, parental consent, or responsibilities, can make it very difficult, if not impossible for students attending college to study abroad. As a requirement, studying abroad may make earning a degree impossible for a person returning to college. An adult returning to college has additional responsibilities in his occupation and family. This is made worse if the one returning to college is the only parent or the primary source of income.
Rather than making studying abroad a requirement, it should be made more accessible. This can be done in several ways. First, shorter study periods can be offered. The time period for studying abroad of often one or two full semesters. By offering study periods of half-semesters, more students may be able to go without risking their jobs or family responsibilities. Another way to make studying abroad more accessible is to make it more affordable. Some colleges are already providing scholarships and grants for students wishing to study abroad. The scholarships that do exist, however, are often reserved for students in specific majors such as language or cultural studies, and denied to those pursuing majors that do not relate directly to other countries. By offering more scholarships to all students, the opportunity to study abroad will be more widely accepted.
The benefits of studying abroad are undeniable. The experience can impact students for the rest of their lives. But, should it be required? No. Instead, studying abroad should be made more accessible, more affordable, and more manageable.