Expanding the Palette by Katie

Expanding the Palette by Katie - March 2016 Scholarship Essay

Trying a new food is always a bit nerve wracking. There are things that could potentially go wrong; for example, one might discover a new allergy to this new food. There are also a lot of things that could go right; this undiscovered food could be your new favorite, and on top of that, it could open up doors to so many other foods you haven’t even considered trying before. Just like trying new foods, studying abroad may be scary at first, but the possibilities of where it could lead are endless. After considering the case both for and against requiring all college students to travel, it is clear they should be required to study internationally seeing that the lessons one can learn abroad are lessons that can’t be taught in the classroom.
Studying abroad should be required for all college students because it is an experience unlike anything else. For many students, this trip is their first time being immersed into a new culture and way of life. One can gain a new understanding and appreciation for their own life back home. For example, I encountered a new way of life after traveling to Seine Bight, Belize; the living conditions were far different than ours in the States, and after returning home, I appreciated my life and family more than I ever imagined. Imagine what one could learn while studying in a foreign place. The possibilities are endless; the people, food, music, and even the religions they encounter could be life changing.
While many agree that studying abroad is an amazing decision, others argue it isn’t worth the time and money. Traveling internationally can expose some big numbers; not only are the airline fares steep, but the food and lodging prices are also higher than those in America. In addition, many argue international travel at such a young age is dangerous. Going alone, away from family, friends, and even the comforts of American security, seems to pose many possible threats.
After comparing whether studying abroad should be required throughout one’s college years, it is evident that it should be seeing that the experience gained internationally is something that one can’t be exposed to in the United States. While danger is an issue for many parents, many universities send students in groups and have partnerships all over the world with companies and fellow schools in order to protect their students. The living quarters are all approved by the school itself, and the people students live with are fellow peers enjoying the same experience they are. In addition, those who say studying abroad is an option much too expensive to consider may be unaware that there are options to work around this. Many schools provide scholarships to send students abroad, and even if your student isn’t interested or doesn’t qualify, multiple universities are willing to work to accommodate for their student’s needs. Why are schools willing to spend their money on someone else’s trip? Because they know the experience their students will gain is life changing. They aim to make students well rounded and intelligent, both things easily achieved in an amplified way worldwide. The students who choose to study internationally are gaining an education that is enhanced and solidified with experience. Studying abroad provides a different perspective to compliment education; it is an eye opening experience for those who choose to do so, and therefore should be required in all universities nationwide.