Catie Funk is the International Programs Assistant in the College of Human Sciences. She had an exciting presentation, discussing the immense study abroad opportunities Iowa State has to offer. She presented a convincing argument that everyone should take the chance to go overseas. For example, facing another culture is a way to grow a global perspective and exchange ideas. It is one thing to meet international students on campus, but it is an entirely different occurrence to experience life in their setting. As I was reflecting on her lecture, I came to realize that studying in another country would also give me a better understanding of international students on campus. They must learn to communicate as we do, engage in some of our traditions, navigate through unknown territory. It can be a culture …show more content…
Funk talking about other ways students can go overseas that are not as extended as a full semester and that are suitable for those of us concerned with the financial aspect. One opportunity is to do the tuition exchange, where we pay Iowa State tuition at specific programs globally. As she mentioned in class, an advantage of doing the tuition exchange is students getting more of an immersion to the culture than if someone took classes taught by Iowa State professors abroad. Professors at the universities overseas teach the exchange programs; you also take classes with students from that area. Another option I now might consider is going on a two-week trip. I have a passion for empowering others through fashion. After hearing Catie speak about the two-week South African trip in May, I have a strong desire to go there. It would be an eye-opening experience to meet women that are starting their own businesses and simply learn about their culture and dress. Unfortunately, I switched my major so I can no longer go to South Africa for that specific trip. However, I now know there are plenty of other chances for me to do short-term, service-learning