Morgan McAulay

Ms. Grant
UWRT 1102
February 24, 2015
Over the course of this writing process the overall point of inquiry that I want to look further into is
does studying abroad benefit a student both mentally and academically. This question can go in many
directions, which is why I feel it has potential for a successful course of inquiry. Also, research and data will
continue to be produced in relation to this topic and the questions that go along with it. Studying abroad is
something that I definitely want to do in my future academic career and believe it can hold many positive
benefits to students. Ive always been quite interested in the dynamic of other countries and the cultures that
they each present. Being cultured as a human being holds many benefits I believe that can positively
change the perception of young nave minds. Being aware of others allows one to become more accepting,
which results in less stereotypes and prejudices.
Understanding ones culture and studying abroad can help mold ones mind and learn to go against
what American society automatically expects. When briefly researching traveling abroad and effects on
student Ive found an interesting book called The First Time Effect: The impact of study abroad on college
student intellectual development. Also, I want to explore not only the impact on intellectual development but
also how it affects ones overall worldview. I came across an article called The Sociocultural Aspect of
Education Abroad and a book by Nadine Dobly called Encountering an American Self: Study abroad and
National Identity. These are only a few of the questions and pieces of literature I can dive into when inquiring
on this topic. I want to explore how different countries view education and how where you study abroad can
impact the experience you have doing so.
Over the course of my research about studying abroad I believe I will conclude that the pros way
out the cons. Studying in a different country has the potential to allow students to able themselves to better
understanding other cultures. As a whole I believe traveling abroad is important for an individual because
that exposer can impact ones motivation and quality of life. This exposer can lead to a more qualified and
well-rounded individual for job opportunities and can aid in finding a career path. World travel can also allow
our society to become more accepting of others and how they live their lives. One downfall of travel that I
feel as though I will come across is the financial aspect of it, and how that definitely is a roadblock for some
individuals who dont have extra money to spend. Inquiring on this topic can benefit myself as well because
it is something I am very interested in.

I.Is Traveling Abroad Beneficial to Students

A. Academic Benefits
1. Allows them to better understand potential future career path
2. Allows students to learn in a different environment
3. Can result in a better-rounded student
B. Mental Benefits
1. Travel often times results in happiness
2. Shapes understanding of the world
II. Academic Benefits
A. The First Time Effect: The impact of study abroad on college student intellectual
development
1. Scientific benefits of travel on the mind
2. How studying abroad and grades correlate
B. Can help on transcripts or applications for future
1. Makes one look more competitive for jobs
2. Can aid in high level schooling (masters)
C. Other opportunities
1. Creating connections through either organizations or individuals
III. Mental Benefits
A.Worldview
1. The Sociocultural Aspect Of Education Abroad
a. Article of the social and cultural benefits
B. Encountering an American Self: Study Abroad and National Identity By:
Nadine Dobly
1. Different countires have different a society
2. Does where you are from influence youre view on education
3. Stereotypes and Judgment Prevention