Sometimes I feel like a 'Study Abroad Commercial'

It is somewhat of a big responsibility...as I remember some of my important decisions in my life, I recall certain people's comments and how they influenced my decisions. The voices just flash in my brain - they can be the voices of strangers, peers, parents - but they've subconsciously and consciously influenced my decisions. I'd like to think that decisions are made independent from the outside influences, but we don't live in a vacuum.

So I often find myself playing the role of the 'Study Abroad Promoter.' The problem is: I haven't even gone yet! Once I get there, I will be much better equiped for this role. Once I get back, I foresee myself embracing this role to its fullest extent. I will then be ready for all of my advice on the matter to be taken seriously (since now all of my advice is just speculative).

Here's a quote that I have found - as a part of my research for this role of mine:

"People-to-people diplomacy, created through international education and exchanges, is critical to our national interests. Americans who study abroad expand their global perspective and become more internationally engaged." (Colin Powell, Secretary of State, August 2002)