Exploring Beyond Our Comfort Zones by Lauren

Exploring Beyond Our Comfort Zones by Lauren - November 2017 Scholarship Essay

If I were able to study abroad, I can’t imagine the wonder I would experience. Despite my dream of traveling the world, meeting new people, and seeing different cultures and landscapes, I dream of becoming a pharmacist. Along with this, I dream of studying abroad, particularly in Ireland if I am lucky enough. The mere thought of being able to live this dream makes my heart beat rise and my cheeks to flush with excitement.
Although the beauty of studying in a foreign country is enticing, the educational benefits are just as appealing, if not more. I believe studying abroad has so much to offer to my college experience. The opportunity to study medicine in another country and learn how they practice, explore these differences, and expand the pool of professionals I interact with is sure to be a strong way to develop my knowledge and versatility in the field. I believe it is important to interact and listen to others in your field in order to prepare yourself for your post collegiate career and expanding this base outside of the borders of our country is a unique, yet strong way to do so.
We far too often bubble ourselves within our comfort zone and restrict our brains to anything beyond this which may be scary or overwhelming. To me, it is what is beyond our comfort zones that offers us the most growth and potential. I have spent countless hours planning what I want my future to look like and how I can do anything in my power to reach this goal but I often find myself limiting this because I am nervous to take great risks with the potential threat of failing. With this being said, leaving my family and comfort zone to do my own thing and learn on my own in a new environment seems to be a great way to break out of this shell and grow both professionally and personally. This personal growth is essential to pursuing my dream and gaining the confidence and knowledge to drive my professional goals.
Pharmacy is such an exciting career that has many options on how and where to practice. With this being said, it is extremely important to study vigorously and take in as much knowledge and advice when possible. The experience of living, studying, and practicing in a foreign country not only offers a once in a lifetime experience, it offers an opportunity to become cultured and humbled. I believe that studying abroad is one of the greatest opportunities one can take advantage of and if possible, everyone should atleast give it a thought and maybe even spend some time dreaming of the world and its beauty which is far too often overlooked.