Fabrice Viami, France
Traveling is just one advantage of studying abroad. The moment you
get out of the U.S., you will be able to see how big the world really
is and experience other cultures and see different things in many
places. Certain aspects may be similar to home, but the diversity you
will encounter will be the most eye-opening experience of your life. I
spent a semester studying abroad at École Supérieure des Sciences
Commerciales d’Angers (ESSCA) in Angers, France.
Most people will tell you it's expensive to study abroad. Ángel
Cabrera, the president of George Mason University, stated, "It's
very expensive not to study abroad," and after my study abroad
experience, I must agree with him. I strongly encourage
first-generation and TRIO students to apply for scholarships. I was a
beneficiary of the Mark & Elizabeth Murray Study Abroad
Scholarship. I would like to take this occasion to thank the Murray
family again, for giving me the opportunity to study abroad. Because
of the donations from people like the Murrays, students like me have
the chance to see the world. I would also like to thank my family for
their support. When I was in France, we communicated often, and they
didn't stop asking for pictures of places that I visited. I was
excited to share my experience with them as if they were there too.
Studying abroad has opened my eyes to the world, has helped with my
personal development, and will forever influence my decisions on how I
see and live the world. For anyone studying abroad, specifically TRIO
students studying abroad, I would advise you to keep an open mind when
you are abroad. Things will not be the same as back home - and that's
the fun part, experiencing something new. There is a much bigger world
out there with more to offer. Take advantage of the study abroad experience.
