I realized there are 5 ways I could travel essentially (or completely) for free through my education here at the University of Iowa:
- A spring break trip to Xicotepec, Mexico through the Career Leadership Academy
The trip requires taking two classes that actually fit the requirements for a portion of my Leadership Studies Certificate. Besides that, it’s an opportunity to put my Spanish to use while doing something nice for other people. Plus the scholarship covers most of the cost of the trip
- A trip to some foreign country (there’s a lot to choose from – my preference would be a European country) through Camp Adventure
Basically, the University of Northern Iowa has spearheaded this program that allows students to travel for the purpose of watching American people’s children on military bases and at U.S. embassies around the world. In addition to free travel and accommodations, you get paid a base amount every week, 12 credits for school at a reduced rate, and what appears to be an excellent experience, overall. I just sent in my initial application!
- A service trip to Romania thanks to a UI scholarship
The University of Iowa offers a scholarship for a two week service trip in Romania. This one is significantly harder to get, because they only pick two recipients, but I’m hoping my increased involvement in leadership programs and volunteering will help leverage my ability to be considered for it.
- Possibly volunteering for the Peace Corps post grad?
This one’s a big maybe. But a spokesperson for the Peace Corp visited my Management class the other day and showed me how volunteering for the Peace Corp could help me become a more valuable worker. They have business development programs in Latin American countries, which would help me with my Spanish, while practicing my Business skills. - Study Abroad
This one’s not free, but is among the most likely of these opportunities. I want to go to Madrid, Spain, but they don’t have a lot of Business-specific programs, so I may alter my choice to Barcelona. Either way, I get to spend time in Spain, so it’s win-win This will probably go down Spring of my Senior year.