When I was younger, I always knew I wanted to travel and that it was important to see as much of the world as possible, but I never understood why until I got older. This year, I have had the chance to really consider why and understand the importance of cultural immersion and travel.
The past five months have taught me more about world cultures and diversity than 14 years in school have. Every day I am shocked at the amount I have yet to learn. Worldwide travel and cultural experiences, whether it be studying abroad, an international vacation, or a two week trip with classmates, is able to broaden horizons and strengthen cultural bonds in ways that would otherwise remain unknown.
As an international relations student, I have plenty of opportunities in class to learn about other nations and cultures, but experiencing those cultures firsthand is a completely different experience from what the classroom can teach. In the past five months, I have had the opportunity to meet people from six continents and experience a bit of each of their cultures as we discuss and observe each other’s lives and mannerisms.
As globally connected as the world is through the internet, I was amazed when I arrived in Europe and realized how little I truly knew and understood about cultures other than my own. From dress and food to table manners and hobbies, I have been introduced to an entire world that I had never known existed, despite having lived on it for 21 years.
Of course, all of the traveling and meeting people is fun and exciting, but being able to see history come to life as I walk through castles and medieval towns, having the chance to see lifestyles and monuments only heard about in textbooks, is something which benefits everyone.
Learning about history and the world is not only more fun, but easier, when you are able to visit and experience every bit of the Earth about which you are learning.
— Shannon Rabotski is a 2016 graduate of Monroe High School and is a junior at Drake University. She can be reached at shannon.rabotski@drake.edu.
