By Delia Harrington
Are you a first generation traveler thinking of studying abroad? Then take these tips from our interviewees:
"If you're family is resistant, I say do it anyway." Brittany
It's easier to travel now than ever before. If your family is resistant to your desire to travel or your friends give you a hard time for leaving them behind -- I say do it anyway. Then show them all the amazing pictures you took! Tell them stories of all the amazing things you've done! They will hopefully understand one day.
"Don't let fear (other people's or your own)
dictate where you travel." Al
I would say -- while using your smarts, of course -- don't let fear (other people's or your own) dictate where you travel. I think it is a good life lesson too, but I feel the thing I hear most from people reluctant to travel or on the fence about it are fears. Fear of getting lost, not knowing the language, fear of being a victim of a terrorist attack... I've heard a lot of different ones. While there are clearly considerations to make (a good example being, "I'm vegan -- what food staples are available where I am going?") and I empathize with feeling fearful (I have depression and anxiety, fear often surges through my veins), it is good to at least question those fears if/when able. Just to make sure they aren't holding themselves back from experiences that could end up being some of the best of their lives. Also, I LOVE LOVE photography. I like social media. Those things being said, try to take in as much as you can. Sometimes you have the most fun when you leave the iPad or camera behind and just wander, soaking in everything.
"The world is smaller than it's ever been and it
would be a shame to watch it turn from the same place your entire
life." DJ
I've had my parents go from telling me that study abroad is impossible to helping me save up for my tuition and board. I've had friends tell me that I inspire them because I don't go to typical places and do typical things. It's really wonderful when you have a goal and your support network is convinced of your goal as well. It was not easy at first. Not at all. I had my bubble busted so many times. But now, because I've taken steps toward pursuing my goals of traveling and possibly moving outside of the US, I have my most important people in my corner. To a first-generation of travelers: do it. Even if it means sacrificing money, time, etc. Move to another country. Learn another language. Meet new people. Try crazy food. Dance to new music. Connect with your brothers and sisters outside. Be a human! The world is smaller than it's ever been and it would be a shame to watch it turn from the same place your entire life.
"First-generation travelers have to be very
brave." Brianne
I think first-generation travelers have to be very brave. They need to be true to themselves and focus on making travel a priority, if it's important to them, regardless of what well-meaning friends and family members say. They're likely to encounter a lot of negativity -- that they're taking risks with their finances, careers, relationships, and/or safety -- so they need to block that out and remember that their own version of success is likely very different than their parents.
"Part of Who I Am"
When asked if they would continue traveling, the answer was a resounding yes. For many first generation travelers, like Brianne, travel is, "part of who I am and who I will (likely) always be."I'll leave you with DJ's inspiring words:
"I am going to keep traveling. I love it and I see it being a very important part of my future. I think that I am young and in a time in my life where I can take the time to travel and explore the world. I think traveling is a great way to see what it's like to be human and to share this experience with others. I want to be able to tell my children stories about my adventures in the future."
These stories have been published to bring more awareness of study abroad to students who may not have considered it. If you know someone who isn't planning to study abroad, but should, nominate them. If you're a student who hasn't considered it as an option, think about it again and apply for the generation study abroad scholarship.
Read the full article at gooverseas.com
--
If you need help getting started with study abroad, take a
look at the first steps: http://studyabroad.uark.edu/getting-started/first-steps.php.
For more scholarships for study abroad, please check out http://studyabroad.uark.edu/funding.
For more scholarships for study abroad, please check out http://studyabroad.uark.edu/funding.
