Mentor Advice
Question
Why is study abroad important for students from diverse backgrounds?
16 Replies from Mentors
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Dawn AndersonHousemaster at MIT and a professional photographerMassachusetts Institute of TechnologyBesides the opportunity to compare cultures non western influenced countries, many nontraditional locations offer a way to reap the benefits of immersion in places where the value of the US dollar is still strong. Since financial barriers exists for many underrepresented students, looking at locations off the beaten path (most popular destination for US students) could make good economic sense.
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LaNitra BergerSenior Manager of Research and PolicyNAFEOIt’s important to understand the world you live in, and the best way to do that is through travel and study abroad. Study abroad is the best way to develop life skills that will last a lifetime. You will learn how to persevere in the face of hardship, how to use creative problem solving skills, how to overcome communication barriers, and how to see people as individuals rather than as stereotypes. For these reasons, study abroad should be part of every student’s college experience.
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Kenya CaseyStudy Abroad AdvisorEmory UniversityThere are few students from diverse backgrounds that travel overseas; therefore those that take advantage of the opportunity to travel internationally become global ambassadors for young people who think international travel is not an option. In addition, studying abroad, if you make the most of it, will prove to be an asset to your professional career and overall collegiate experience. Those that never studied abroad in college, when they look back, always wish they had!
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Patrick FrazierDirector of International EducationQuinnipiac UniversityStudy Abroad allows students from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to not only represent a strong and vibrant part of the United States but also to gain an understanding that they can best describe to people of their own background. The media image of African Americans in particular has been twisted since the pre-Hollywood era. The more real life experience those from outside the United States have with African Americans the better the perception of this ethnic group.
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Tony LaingPh.D. Candidate at Education Policy Studies and AFRO StudiesUniversity of Illinois – Urbana, ChampaignThis may sound corny, but study abroad opens doors. Many potential employers have repeatedly mentioned that I was invited to interview for a variety of reasons, my study abroad experience being one reason cited. I also think that studying abroad is not just for the privileged few, but should be an option for all students from various socio-economic statuses and affinity groups.
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Anthony YuenOutreach, Communications & MarketingSummer Sessions, Study Abroad & Lifelong LearningStudy abroad is increasingly being seen as an essential part of the college experience, and just like higher education, it's important that all students have access and the ability to study abroad regardless of their background. It's also equally important that the students who study abroad are reflective of the diversity of the United States. As an educator, it's my responsibility to ensure that study abroad becomes an opportunity for all students, especially those who have traditionally not been represented in the field.