Caleb Wilson, MTSU’s Blue Raiders Down Under Marketing Intern talks about Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone. Caleb writes:
We all know how difficult, awkward and unsettling it can be to step out of your comfort zone, I mean that’s why it is called your comfort zone after all. Some people choose to jump out of an airplane, others get on a stage in front of a crowd and sing karaoke and then some people get on an airplane (without jumping out) and immerse themselves in a culture totally different from their own. Whichever way people elect to step out of their comfort zone, one thing they will all say is how rewarding it is after the fact.
I am going to dare the students on MTSU’s campus and other campuses around the country to step out of their comfort zone by participating in an AUIP program. Many students are afraid to travel abroad because they are worried about not being able to adjust to the different culture or about standing out. Good news for them, AUIP travels to Oceania where the culture is similar to ours in America. Even better news is we both speak the English language! Yes, we have some differences but for the most part you’ll know exactly what a local is saying. With that being said, that’s one of the main reasons for studying abroad… to experience another culture that is different than ours!
Maybe you’re more of a home body and not an outdoorsman. If so, this program will definitely broaden your horizons. The only tropical rainforest found in the United States is found on Puerto Rico, but on this trip you’ll be spending multiple days in rainforests going on hikes, gathering research and learning how businesses interact with the environment. Although there are many coral reefs to be found surrounding the U.S., there is only one Great Barrier Reef and you could spend an entire day snorkeling it on this trip.
Stepping outside of your comfort zone can be one of the scariest things you experience, but it is also one of the most rewarding things you could possibly do. You will strengthen your character, build your confidence and make some friendships along the way. So again I encourage…DARE you to step out of your comfort zone and travel with AUIP.
