If I could describe studying abroad in a few words, it would be life-changing. Being able to have the opportunity to study abroad is something every college student should take advantage of. I never would have thought I would be traveling abroad my freshman year of college. My first thought while traveling abroad was terrifying. I also didn’t understand the purpose. However, I was sitting in on one of my club meetings and heard about this opportunity. So, easily giving in, I applied and soon got accepted.
Living in the U.S., I feel very privileged to live the life I do. Receiving an education, job opportunities, living in good conditions and receiving great medical attention are all things most people take for granted. People do not realize that some people in different countries have almost none of those things. For example, this past week I traveled abroad to Guatemala with a group of classmates. Here, we completed a series of carpentry projects for families who lived in Los Andes on coffee farms. We spent a few days building a total of four bathrooms and a new and improved swing-set for the kids. The bathrooms were outside and made of wood. As we were saying our goodbyes to the community village, a woman approached me in tears, expressing her gratitude for her new bathroom. Sometimes, it’s not about how much you have, but what you do have.
I think one of the most important characteristics to have in life is an open mind. An open mind and heart will allow you to have a broad perspective on things. It is sometimes hard to have a broad perspective on things because for most people, we are born and raised only having a certain perspective. However, traveling can put a lot of things into perspective. Family, income, work-ethic, integrity and patience were all things I put into perspective while in another country. The reason I am saying the word “perspective” so much is because during my experience abroad, I didn't necessarily think “it could be worse.” To me, saying this meant that people aren't allowed to be happy and appreciative just because others have it better.
If you are a college student and have any interest in traveling, study abroad! The experience will change your life, as it did mine. Even if it is just for a week, do it. Traveling for a short amount of time might influence you to study abroad for a summer, semester or maybe even a year. Traveling abroad has made me realize what I want to continue doing the rest of my time in college. It has also made me want to travel abroad again and perhaps for a longer duration.
"Travel brings power and love back into your life."
