A Choice by Hannah

A Choice by Hannah - March 2016 Scholarship Essay

In this generation, many college students would dream of studying abroad. My cousin, who is studying to be a nurse, was offered the chance of a lifetime to study abroad for one semester. She respectfully declined the opportunity simply because her life was here, in the United States. The real question is: is it worth it? I feel that it should not be required for college students to study abroad.
Let me be direct: although many students would love the opportunity, many would prefer to stay in the area they know best. Studying abroad can be a great experience, but for some students, they wouldn’t know how to function outside of their comfort zone. A student who grew up dependent on the consistency of their family may feel uncomfortable in a different country. Studying abroad means that a student must adapt to their lifestyle, fashion, and language. For some, it might click easily, but for most people who don’t want to leave the comfort of their campus may not adapt as easily.
Requiring students to study abroad isn’t in the student’s best interest. It would force students to leave the comfort of their home and everyday life. Studying abroad should be a choice, not a requirement.