On Tuesday, October 26, 2021, I attended an information session regarding Boren Scholarships and Fellowship opportunities, presented by Kyle Cox, a Boren outreach and recruitment analyst. 

 

I have always been interested in studying abroad, so when I heard that the Boren program is a study abroad program that includes an immersive language-learning experience, I was ecstatic to learn more. The program also gives the chance for someone to visit a more-exotic part of the world. Some of the promoted regions available as a Boren Scholar include Africa, Central, and South America, Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. I am still not quite sure where I would most like to study abroad, but I figured that this experience may help give me a better idea of where I would like to visit.

 

Mr. Cox began the presentation by introducing the program and its core pieces. The program is very flexible and is designed by the individual Boren Scholar/Fellow. The individual will study abroad in the country of their choosing, for a period of time of their choice, studying the primary language of the country, and either interning, taking classes, or providing service. Not only must the individual provide a detailed, realistic plan to improve on their proficiency of the language, but they are also required 12-months of public service following their time abroad. This service can be completed under a myriad of government agencies including the CIA, NSA, Department of Education, Peace Corps, NASA, and many more agencies.

 

This was one of the most informative PDP events I have attended to this point. I learned so much useful information, not only about Boren, but also important general knowledge about studying abroad. After learning how the Boren program works, I do not think the program is for me. However, it did confirm my ambitions to study abroad and take classes in another country. The service obligations somewhat seem to conflict with my plans following my undergrad experience, and the learning is more tailored specifically towards a language. While I would not be opposed to studying a foreign language, I would prefer to focus my studies on furthering my primary discipline (economics).