The Herald

Issue date: 8/31/07 Section: Feature

Media Credit: Laci Broussard Laci Broussard and fellow study abroad students stand on top of Alcazar of Segovia.

Media Credit: Laci Broussard Students pose infront of the statue of King Phillip IV Mayor in Madrid.

By James Hollins
Contributing Writer



In this age of globalization, a close understanding of foreign cultures is both a significant educational benefit and an inspiring personal experience. Study abroad programs across the world have dedicated themselves to providing college students with the opportunity to discover and embrace a culture different from their own.
This fall, 12 TSU students will be embarking on a journey that will serve not as only an extension to their studies, but will impact their lives in a major way that is sure to have lasting benefits. By studying abroad, these students will be able to continue their education uninterrupted.
Many of the students who will study abroad said they chose countries in which they had strong cultural interest and curiosity. Felix Rainey, a sophomore political science major, said this would allow him to get a true sense of different cultures.
"You can't rely on the media to tell us what we
should think and know about the world. This will be my opportunity to obtain global competence and widen my appreciation for other cultures," Rainey said.
Felix Rainey is just one of the twelve TSU students who will travel to various countries such as Jordan, Spain, Thailand, Kenya and France.
Because studying abroad has proven to be advantageous to students who work in ethnically and culturally diverse settings, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed a bill that would start the Senator Paul Simon Study Abroad Foundation. It is the goal of the foundation to make studying abroad much more affordable and accessible for students.
Studying abroad is open to all students and a time of furthering your studies outside the United States allows you to forge lasting international relationships, recognize and welcome cultural differences and help in changing stereotypes that stagnate the development of your academic and personal growth.
"It is critically important for TSU students to prepare themselves to be global citizens. Opportunities to live and study in another country and to get to know another culture provide the best way to obtain this preparation," said Dr. Gregory Maddox, Associate Dean of the Graduate School.

James Hollins is an English and Administration of Justice double major and a contributing writer for THE HERALD.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools