If there were one thing that I could do to enrich my college education it would be to educate myself for a period of time overseas. Day after day I’ve sat in a lecture hall listening to professors tell me about the world. Learning about different cultures has certainly opened my mind to other ways of life and perspectives than my own, but I don’t think I can fully understand the concepts I’ve been taught without applying them in person in another country. College has given me only a peek of the outside world and I’m thirsty for more.
With the help of private philanthropy, many military students are awarded scholarships to do just what I dream of. While studying abroad, these scholars are given the opportunity to learn new languages, immerse themselves in the culture of the country they are visiting, and develop friendships with the people. They get to witness first hand the typical life of community members, including their struggles. Such experiences are extremely beneficial not just to the individual but also to the U.S., where cultural-competence assists in carrying out successful military operations.
Personally, I think all military students should be given the opportunity to be educated in another country. I feel like one cannot fully understand the U.S. in isolation from its surroundings because it lies in an interdependent field of other countries. In conclusion, I think private donations that help military students to study abroad should be greatly acknowledged for the tremendous benefits they yield.
Philanthropy Fix 