Why Study Abroad?
Only 5.6% of African Americans students study abroad. There is a "great big" world out there waiting for us, yet we are not embarking on it. My desire to venture out of the country started one summer afternoon while watching a commercial. The camera panned over this large valley and sparked the idea in my mind to see these wonders in person.
Where?
I have decided to study in either Spain or Cuba to enhance my Spanish speaking ability. I have been taking Spanish since the sixth grade but an hour of Spanish class and studying can only go so far. I want to speak Spanish as well as I do English and the only way I can accomplish this goal is by speaking Spanish as frequently as I do English. Barcelona, Spain is where Cheetah Girls 2 was filmed, and I would love to see the same sights they did while brushing up on my Spanish. Cuba looks so retro and full of life, but of course before I make a final selection I will do my research. Many study abroad programs are hosted in areas that speak English for those who are more comfortable with that language.
How to save.
Since this is my dream, my adventure, and my journey I have decided to independently fund my study abroad trip. There are many opportunities to receive scholarships as an African American student studying at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), which I plan to look into, but just incase I may have to come out of pocket; I want to be prepared. This past summer I worked two part-time jobs, and this semester I have a job on campus to fund my endeavors. Creating a GoFundMe account is also a popular route for fundraising.
Goals // Objectives
My goals while studying abroad include improving my fluency in Spanish, learning their culture while comparing and contrasting it to my culture, staying on track with my studies while abroad, and having the time of my life. No kids, no man, not too many responsibilities; this is the time to do what makes me happy with no regrets. Hopefully the knowledge I gain while abroad will bring a new perspective to my work and life.
Home stay over apartment
I have decided to stay with a family rather than an apartment with other students. Staying with a host family will give me a real 'day in the life' experience and my family will encourage me to speak Spanish. Hopefully I learn recipes, slang, and popular music while in the house!
Pitching the idea to the parentals
Studying abroad was not an easy pill for my mother to swallow. I am the baby of the family and I will be the first child to study out of the country. My mom's eyebrows raised as I told her where I wanted to study, but I had to reassure her that I would be smart, do my research, and excel while abroad. The more I talked about the topic, the more relaxed she became.
Making it memorable
I doubt I will do anything crazy like jump off of a building but I will do my best to make this experience memorable. Not all students are fortunate enough to attend college to get the opportunity to even think about studying abroad. I encourage everyone who has the opportunity to study abroad to at least look into it. There is more to the world than just the United States. Think of the experience as an educational vacation.
