Political Leaders on Studying Abroad

While researching all of the possible benefits that study abroad offers to college students, I came upon an interesting website that featured prominent U.S. President's and political leaders and their position on studying abroad. The opinions of some of the most influential political leaders in the United States share why they think it is important for students to study abroad and become educated on different cultures.  Here are some of the more significant speakers that were listed on the website and how they feel toward cultural immersion:



1.President George W. Bush- "America's leadership and national security rest on our commitment to educate and prepare our youth for active engagement in the international community."


2. President Bill Clinton- "To continue to compete successfully in the global economy and to maintain our role as a world leader, the United States needs to ensure that its citizens develop a broad understanding of the world, proficiency in other languages, and knowledge of other cultures. America's leadership also depends on building ties with those who will guide the political, cultural, and economic development of their countries in the future. A coherent and coordinated international education strategy will help us meet the twin challenges of preparing our citizens for a global environment while continuing to attract and educate future leaders from abroad."


3. Former Secretary of State, Medeleine K. Allbright- "While these initiatives focus on specific areas of expertise, they also improve the climate for respecting basic human rights. In relatively closed societies, IIE programs provide a rare chance to establish outside contact and explore wonderfully dangerous ideas, such as freedom. In transitional countries they provide a means of educating future leaders about the nuts and bolts of democratic institutions. And in every nation they touch, they help open the door of opportunity to minorities and women."

Political Leaders on Studying Abroad