In a recent reflection on personal decisions, the decision to apply for a study abroad program at the University of Washington (UW) stands out as both impulsive and rewarding. Despite the common tendency for students to defer consideration of studying abroad due to concerns such as finances, credit implications, and safety, UW faculty actively encourages students to explore this transformative opportunity.
For the author, a history student at UW, the Comparative History of Ideas (CHID) study abroad program in Prague, Czech Republic, became a pivotal academic and personal experience during the spring quarter of 2023. Entitled “History, Memory, and Human Rights in Central Europe,” the program, active since 1996, delved into the history, politics, and culture of Central Europe from the 1940s to the 1990s. The immersive exploration extended to understanding the contemporary arts and culture scene in the city.
Even for non-CHID students like the author, the program offered valuable contributions to education and progress toward graduation. A fellow participant, Heidi Cahill, a fourth-year student studying political science and communication, shared positive sentiments about the program’s structure and impact, emphasizing its longevity and the diverse range of events, travel, and guest speakers.
Despite the merits of studying abroad, challenges persist, including financial considerations, organizational aspects, and inclusivity concerns. While program costs cover tuition, housing, program excursions, and local transportation, additional expenses such as personal spending, airfare, and solo travel can pose uncertainties in budgeting. Cahill pointed out a contrast in tuition rates, potentially acting as a barrier for in-state students and an advantage for out-of-state students. She advocated for more merit-based scholarships to address this discrepancy.
Acknowledging financial obstacles, the University of Washington offers financial aid and scholarships for study abroad programs, and various departments, such as the history department, provide additional support. Sara Hamidi, a fourth-year student studying informatics and minoring in data science and human rights, participated in both the CHID program and the iSchool program in Vienna. Hamidi emphasized the organized nature of the programs, providing valuable skills and industry experience while allowing for extensive travel.
While the benefits of studying abroad are apparent, the impact of COVID-19 on these opportunities is undeniable. Many students missed the chance to study abroad during the pandemic, leading to a dip in program participation even after travel restrictions were lifted. The lingering effects of the pandemic, coupled with program restrictions and prerequisites, have affected the accessibility of study abroad experiences.
Hamidi suggested that the study abroad department could improve its marketing efforts to engage more students, believing that many students would benefit from these opportunities if better informed. Despite the challenges and potential deterrents, the article concludes by emphasizing the wealth of programs and faculty at large institutions like UW, urging students to seize the opportunity for academic and personal growth through studying abroad.
