Traveling and Studying Abroad Essay Example

First of all, I want to start with this question: What do you get out of staying in a different country? Many of you might think that it is a way to challenge yourself, a way to encounter adventures. Others think that it is about the knowledge and independence or perhaps several people just see it as a way to enjoy life. They are all valid answers. Well, it’s all that and much more. However, what we want for you to consider are that the most important and positive things about traveling and studying abroad are the experiences and opportunities that may present themselves. Many people have this conception that moving abroad and starting over in a new country is one of the most terrifying and risky things ever. Yes, life might be difficult for a while and the process might not be completely easy, but living in a foreign country is truly one of those things that everyone should try at least once. Developing the curiosity to travel and explore the world is something that completes us, that molds and shapes us in one way or another. To summarize, traveling and studying abroad contribute to some of  the most valuable things that can exist in a person’s life: discovering, loving and learning.

Dee Roach, group manager and European marketer for the Navitas Education Group, says nothing beats the immersive international experience you get while studying abroad. “The best way of finding out about another culture is by immersing yourself in it, and you can only do that by living in a country.” So, we can say that studying or traveling overseas is practically about of discovering the unknown. You’re going to encounter notable cultural differences, in both the obvious aspects (language, architecture, people, clothing, etc.), but also during small unexpected moments. It includes the opportunity to find uniqueness and diversity and also to confront face to face with the unfamiliar. On the other hand, in spite of the differences in language, food, appearances, and personal habits, a person's culture reflects very deep perceptions, beliefs, and values that influence his or her way of life. This will help you learn about new perspectives and develop a cross-cultural awareness.

In such manner, rather than being surrounded by like-minded people of similar background that we’re so used to, we meet adventurous, sometimes multi-lingual, culturally and otherwise diverse groups of people abroad. That brings us to our second point, it gives you an opportunity to learn. I imagine that going to somewhere new is, above all, educational. The exciting thing about it is that it consists on a new way of learning; it‘s hands on, dynamic and transformative. But most importantly, being exposed to new experiences allows you to learn more about what you want as a person. By meeting new people and seeing how they live their lives, you slowly start to get a better understanding of how the world works, which can easily help you to find a new sense of strength within yourself.

In other words, we have stated that studying or traveling abroad is one of the most rewarding and memorable experiences a person will ever have their lifetime. But even so, one of the greatest problems associated with going to study abroad is the belief that it is too expensive. According to a report from the British Council, a U.K. non-profit that promotes overseas educational programs, the number of American students considering study abroad has slumped 12% from last year.  Students easily dismiss going abroad to study, without even researching how feasible it can be. Since costs depends on several relative factors like the university, location, duration of the program etc. you can have your take accordingly. While it’s true that flying halfway across the world for a semester is definitely not a drop in the bucket, with careful research and planning, it can be an affordable investment. There are countless other ways to travel on a budget, some options are: applying for multiple study abroad scholarships, choosing a low cost destination, determine if you can apply your financial aid to study abroad and of course it’s important to look for ways to save money. 

Finally, traveling is an opportunity to love and engage yourself with wanderlust. It’s all about loving the experience. It’s about the passion of becoming a naturally curious being, and appreciating your surroundings and the beauty or intrigue of a new land and culture. Is the anticipation to being active and motivated, and transcending the routine. We are capable of looking beyond our neighborhood, state or even our own nation because we are able to see new horizons and for that reason, as David Sedaris, an essayist and writer, said: it transforms us into citizens of the world.