Studying Abroad by Kaitlyn

Studying Abroad by Kaitlyn - November 2017 Scholarship Essay

College is a place to grow, discover, and learn. Many opportunities contribute to this, such as the challenges of dorm life, classes that push one’s knowledge and passion, and being immersed in a new environment with new people. Another chance that exists to aid in those areas is studying abroad. Studying abroad would benefit my education and college life by opening doors to new experiences.
The most obvious way studying abroad can positively impact my college career is by witnessing and living in new cultures. Being surrounded by people that are different than me would be extremely rewarding. Growing up in a small town, I have not experienced much diversity, even though I have always craved it. Submerging yourself in a culture is the best way to learn about it, and it would open my mind to styles of life that differ from mine. In college, I plan on studying a foreign language as well, so studying abroad would help with that tremendously. The best way to learn a new language is to live in a place where they speak it. That way, on top of gaining knowledge, I would gain understanding of the beauty in their daily lives.
Also, studying abroad kindles an excitement that only adventures can create. The idea of a new location and experiencing life differently thrills people and ignites passion in their hearts. That passion will lead to a stronger drive to complete schoolwork, be attentive, and be creative. Students, including myself, often dread going to class and doing homework. However, in such a foreign location, those routine tasks would no longer be regular or boring. I would want to discover how the education system differs and learn as much about the country and its people as possible in my time there.
Studying abroad in a foreign country holds much opportunity both while you’re there and after you return home. College is one of the best times to travel and will likely be the only chance I will have to live and learn in a completely different culture. However, although it can be anxiety inducing, I am very excited for the day I am able to take advantage of studying abroad.