You Can't Learn This in a Book by Isabella
Isabellaof Guilderland Center's entry into Varsity Tutor's March 2016 scholarship contest
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You Can't Learn This in a Book by Isabella - March 2016 Scholarship Essay
The world is a curious creation. There are hundreds of places, cultures, and billions of people outside of your hometown. Each of those places, cultures, and people have different stories, lessons, and experiences that can be enjoyed and learned from. Whether it be a local telling you the best place to see the sunset, or reading about an ancient civilization that once controlled that part of the world, immersing yourself in a different culture is amazing. You never know what you may discover.
I believe that life as a young adult should be filled with fantastic experiences. These often will happen during your college years, as most will be away from home and living on their own for the first time. We will be taking the first step into our independent life; it’s completely terrifying but exciting at the same time. Most young adults find themselves, find their possible career, and make lasting connections. Although college itself is taking a step outside of most people’s comfort zone, I believe that another leap should be made, and required: studying abroad. As aforementioned, studying abroad will give you experiences that you would never ascertain otherwise. You will learn about other cultures, new languages, and possibly fall in love with a new city. And while you’re doing this, you will be with friends or making new ones. It might even change you and how you see yourself. For most, the time they spent abroad wasn’t enough and will be fondly remembered.
I believe that students should be required to study abroad because they will gain experiences unlike any others. When you are immersed in a new culture, amazing things start to happen. You begin to understand other people and see the differences between your life and theirs. You will start learning parts of new languages, and hopefully learn some historical information about that place. Although it can be learned in a book, it can only be really experienced in person.
