Study Abroad by paige

Study Abroad by paige - March 2016 Scholarship Essay

Everyone is different. Everyone has different likes and dislikes. One of the opportunities that excites me most about going to college is studying abroad.
My father tells me often about how he traveled to London in college for a semester. It was such a great experience, he decided to backpack across Europe with friends as soon as he graduated for five weeks. He still tells me that it was one of his most memorable experiences of his life. He uses the word “culture” often. He says that is what is lacking in today’s youth.
That impacted me so much that I only looked at schools that had a “study abroad” program. I want to experience everything I can before I start my journey called “work”.
I have also taken some risks, which only helped me grow as a person. In 2014, I decided to go on a mission trip to Canada with my church. Although a few of my friends attended also, I did not let that influence my decision. Helping others, watching the faces on those who I met, and the sense of accomplishment made the trip one of the highlights in my school years.
When I think of places where I would like to visit, a few come to mind. Paris, China, and London are the three that excite me the most. I would be able to experience something that most can only dream of.
My friends talk about places our parents have visited. I am shocked how many adults have never traveled anywhere. I feel like they are missing a very important piece of a puzzle in life.
In closing, I do not think you should make studying abroad mandatory. What you do need is word of mouth, students talking to students. Once you hear about what each student has gained from something offered by your university, you couldn’t imagine not going.