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Mentor Advice

Question

I am afraid that my parents will not allow me to study and travel for such a long period of time. Any advice on how to convince my parents that study abroad is a worthwhile experience?

5 Replies from Mentors

  • mentor picture Yating Haller
     
    Yating Haller
    Assistant Director
    Global Engineering Program, Purdue University
    Before jumping to the conclusion that your parents would not allow it, at least try to bring up...
    Before jumping to the conclusion that your parents would not allow it, at least try to bring up the subject casually. Many parents are not against the idea of study abroad, but rather they are intimidated by it as you may be the first in the family attending college. So students actually play a big role in educating parents of the reason why they want to study abroad and what it is all about. Be prepared to answer questions that your family may have about it in a positive way. Discuss the details and ensure your parents that study abroad is beneficial for your future.
  • mentor picture Shannon Wilson
     
    Shannon Wilson
    Sales Representative
    Polymer Science, Inc.
    Show your parents of pictures of other minority students that have studied abroad, preferably,...
    Show your parents of pictures of other minority students that have studied abroad, preferably, students that your parents might know. Another helpful tip is to connect your parents with parents of returned study abroad students. This can be your greatest resource. In addition, information on financial aid and scholarships may help convince your parents to let you go. Ask your study abroad advisor for a cost comparison between a semester in the U.S. and a semester abroad. Sometimes, it is cheaper to study in another country than it is to study in the U.S. Keep in mind, however, that if your parents are not budging, take matters into your own hands. Study abroad is a once in a lifetime experience. If you want it, go for it!