Studying Abroad by Katrina

Studying Abroad by Katrina - March 2016 Scholarship Essay

I feel that studying abroad should not be a requirement for all students. Studying abroad requires a time commitment that each student may not have. The description of the “average” college student has changed significantly in the last 20 years. With the onset of the internet an online learning, diverse programs such as evening, weekend and a combination of all three makes it easier for a student so work in their education around the schedule. Many students, due to cost or other personal matters, have postponed and/or delayed their education. They have entered the work force, started family and made other life investments. If they are going to school around their life’s schedule. This would leave very little time for traveling for a semester.
Since the path of the college education has split into many paths, maybe the study abroad opportunity could also. They could shorten the time or allow during the time the student may be free with time off. The best experience of studying abroad is being in the country and absorbing the culture while completing part of the education. If the student could not fully commit to that, they should not be punished or penalized in their education journey. Giving incentive for the student to study abroad may attract more candidates. With incentives, many who did not know about or was not educated on the opportunity may seek to participate before their graduation.