Why I Want To Study Abroad Essay

I am a Tongan descendant born in American Samoa speaking both Tongan and Samoan. I come from a low-income family and I am a first generation college student. Having the opportunity to continue my education is vital for me to be an example and a role model for my family to follow. I am the second of six siblings and the first to seek a higher education. My family is my number one motivator and even though they cannot afford to pay for my education, their love and support is enough to push me to be successful in life. I was a sophomore in high school when my family moved to Alaska in 2009. Shortly after I graduated from high school I was admitted into the undergraduate Accounting program at the University of Alaska Anchorage in fall 2011. Since …show more content…
It will open my views to different learning techniques that I can apply in my schooling. It will be beneficial to discover a new career path that may lead to taking my career to an international level. This study abroad will increase my employment opportunities, graduate school opportunities, and will also build and enhance my professional networking skills. My study abroad will impact my academic and future professional goals in such positive ways that will allow me to gain cultural competence skills and how to handle diversity in the workplace. I can give back more to the community which in turn also helps me with my career opportunities in business, accounting, and internationally. The Gilman scholarship will assist me greatly in reaching my goals abroad. I know that receiving the Gilman Scholarship will alleviate my concerns about paying for my expenses to study abroad. This aid will bless me and I will know that I have supporters who can make this learning abroad experience possible and affordable. I hope to someday be in a position to assist others by educating them about international education and studying abroad and the benefits it can