Program Study Statement
Write a concise 500-word essay of your proposed study abroad program and how it relates to your present academic program. Discuss the classes you wish to take. Describe also the personal benefits you expect to receive from this program. What specific features of the program, as listed in the brochure, appeal to you? Use the reverse side of this shee and/or additional pages if necessary. Return this statement with your application.
Ask me which country sparked my interest in travel and my answer will be England. As a child, I was entranced by their incredible history, which seemed to dwarf young-America's history. Knowing that our colonists originated from England further increased interest in finding out more about the roots of America's culture. When I first found out about the study abroad program at the University of Hawaii-Manoa, I grabbed as much information as I could about the London semester program. I planned my classes so that I would have one semester "open" for the program so this has definitely been a long-term goal of mine. This is the best opportunity to spend time in Europe, in my opinion, because after graduation, chances to spend prolonged time in the European Union are rare. Best of all, my major is especially suited for spending a semester of study in London. As an English major, reading British literature in England proper is only appropriate. What better than to be in the region in which the literature is uniquely written about? It is very different to read the classics in Hawaii with the sunny skies and fifteen-minute walk to the beach as compared to reading them in foggy, architecturally-rich London.
Having looked over the classes that Roehampton University offer for English and Theatre studies, I have found many I am interested in. I have already met with Dr. Zuern, the English department's undergraduate advisor, who have confirmed classes that would be beneficial to me and my graduation requirements. I am most interested in the London in Literature class. In addition, I am very happy that the resident advisor will be Mire Koikari, a women's studies teacher I have heard fantastic things about. In addition, I am still debating a women's studies certificate. Perhaps this opportunity to study with a respected teacher will finalize my decision.
If asked to describe personal benefits I think I will receive, the answers would be incredibly difficult to explain in words. The biggest benefit I think I will gain is the first-hand experience of another culture; not just one, but many, as I plan to use the weekends and holidays to travel to other countries as well. This study abroad opportunity would allow me to see not only one culture but many. Although some people may say that learning about cultures is not really "practical", it's one of my own personal passions to learn about customs other than my own.
Another benefit is independence. Although I do realize that independence can be gained in ones own hometown or even by moving to the mainland, the independence I gain in another country involves having to leave behind a larger comfort zone and dealing with more unknown factors. The idea of independence in a country I feel I am already in love with is a euphoric combination. Both of these factors together present a fantastic opportunity I have been looking forward to since my first year at UHM.
A third benefit is being able to meet people in their native settings and allowing them to show me their definition of London, other than a tourists' view. This applies for the other countries I hope to visit as well, such as Greece, Spain, Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and France. I have writer friends I've met through a wonderful online writing group that are excited to hear that I may be going to their country and I have joined a couchsurfing site online that enables fellow travelers and backpackers to arrange meet-ups with locals or even pair travel companions. I feel confident that I am doing excellent research in this area and will be very prepared for the program.