Should all college students be required to study abroad? Why or why not? by Jamie

Should all college students be required to study abroad? Why or why not? by Jamie - March 2016 Scholarship Essay

I believe it should be a personal choice if students study abroad. There are many pros and cons regarding this subject and I do not feel anyone other than the student and his/her parent should decide if it is a good fit for them.

Let’s look at the pros in studying abroad. It presents an excellent opportunity for a person to live, learn and experience a different culture. Also, with the U.S. being dominated by so many countries in education, a student can experience how other countries educate their students.

When it comes to the cons though there are many factors in studying abroad. First is who would be paying for it? If it was the school, it would be added in to college tuition, and that is already high enough where it puts a financial burden on families and/or students. If and when it is a decision for the family to decide, they need to see the cost of travel to/from the overseas destination, room and board, food and spending allowance. They also need to take into consideration the safety of the student in the environment they are going to. Is their civil unrest or health advisories in the destination? Another factor is that the student may not be mentally mature enough for such and undertaking.

I was lucky enough to enroll in a college where it gives the choice of studying abroad. All colleges should at least give the choice and leave it with the families where it needs to be. After all, doesn’t our government interject themselves into our lives enough when we don’t want them there.