Studying Abroad: A new adventure or a waste of time? by Julia

Studying Abroad: A new adventure or a waste of time? by Julia - March 2016 Scholarship Essay

Julia Leith
Essay Scholarship
14 March 2015
Studying Abroad: A new adventure or a waste of time?
When a student takes the leap from high school to college, it can be a terrifying experience. They have to deal with moving away from mom and dad, meeting new people, and the new course load that comes along with college. When students are asked if they would like to study abroad or stay on campus, many might choose to study abroad. Who wouldn’t want to go to Australia or France while getting an education? Many students don’t agree with spending money to go to a foreign country when they can get the same education on campus, however many believe that studying abroad can help students embrace a whole new culture while still getting an education.
While studying abroad can be exciting for many students, many believe that they shouldn’t have to be forced to because many can’t afford it and they don’t think it is necessary. College students have just moved away from their parents, and most don’t have any money and the jobs they have isn’t enough to send them abroad. This causes them to believe that colleges shouldn’t make it mandatory for their students to study abroad. While there is financial aid that can help cut the costs, the students think that their time and money could be spent better at campus. Additionally, many think that they shouldn’t have to be forced to study abroad to graduate. All they want is to go to college, get an education, and have fun while they’re there.
Although there are many negatives that come along with studying abroad, I believe that it is a great opportunity to study, explore a whole new culture, and create amazing memories with your classmates. Colleges should make it mandatory because students can learn about a whole new culture. They can see what life is like in different countries and experience a whole new way of learning outside of their normal college classrooms. Money ends up being a big determinant when deciding to study abroad, but many colleges offer financial aid and are willing to work with students to make sure that they are receiving the education they want. When students study abroad they are still receiving an education that they would be getting back on campus, but in a whole new environment. If colleges make it mandatory for students to study abroad, I think that many of them would jump at the idea of going to a brand new country with their classmates. These are the memories that they will be able to tell their friends, family, and children for years to come. In conclusion, many students don’t agree with spending money to go to a foreign country when they can get the same education on campus, however I believe that studying abroad can help students embrace a whole new culture while still getting an education.