College – Studying Abroad
Studying abroad was one of the best decisions I made during my college years. I spent the winter term of my senior year in South Africa and Lesotho (another country in Africa that is landlocked within South Africa). There is no type of text book learning that can come close to the learning you acquire through travel and hands-on experience. The world is huge. There is so much more outside your country’s borders. Your school may have a year, semester, summer term, winter term, or even a week abroad. Take advantage of at least one of these opportunities.
I chose South Africa because I was inspired by Nelson Mandela’s plight for freedom. After listening to his lecture at my university three years prior, the love he had for his country was contagious. If you study abroad, choose a country that has a history, culture, and people that interest you.
The entire time in Lesotho and South Africa I was thinking, “Why in the world didn’t I study abroad every year?” No matter what your major is, you can find a course that is applicable to either your major or your general interest. The course in South Africa was called “Exploring World Issues: South Africa and Lesotho.” We spent the majority of our twenty-two-day program in Lesotho. There are no words to describe the beautiful landscape and warmness of the people. And I earned three credits for a life-changing experience! Continue Reading…