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As STEM majors we are pushed to think logically and systematically about the math and science based questions we are faced with throughout our academic careers. We analyze chemical reactions, solve differential equations, and study the rejuvenation of cells in order to engineer solutions some of the world’s most pressing and cutting edge science based questions. Our educational careers train us to be analytical thinkers, yet many of us fall short when it comes to being holistic thinkers. In order for us to be the best engineer we can be, we need to practice being a global citizens: we need to be aware of social issues, understand the roots of social class, learn the repercussions of past innovations, and so much more. However, how can we gain these insights and understanding if our education does not encourage us to explore these topics?
In regards to our education at UCLA, we are only required to take 5 general education classes that would touch on these subjects. Only 5 classes to gain a better understanding of the world around us from a different perspective. While these 5 classes are eye opening and contain incredibly valuable information they are not sufficient to properly equip ourselves with valuable knowledge of the world beyond STEM. It is for this reason that it is important for us to take our education into our own hands, or rather take it abroad.
In taking general education courses abroad the impact of the non-STEM subjects would be heightened. Why learn about the effects of slavery in a 250 student class when you can travel to Ghana and experience firsthand the poverty, exploitation, and deprivation that continues to exist? Why would you simply read textbooks about World War 2, when you could travel to Germany and walk the streets that are bursting at the seams with history and untold stories? Why sit in a UCLA classroom and get lectured on the economic factors contributing to a struggling healthcare system when you could travel to Thailand and truly comprehend the barriers that exist when it comes to gaining access to medical treatment?
In order to effectively use our knowledge to work towards a better future we need to be collaborative, open-minded, and responsive to other opinions, cultures, and ways of life different from our own and take our education abroad. Experiencing a culture that is so vastly different from our own, and embracing it for everything that it is will not only be milestone on the way to our future careers, but an enriching personal experience as well. As a bioengineering major at UCLA I knew I wanted to make the most of my general education courses, so I took them abroad in Ghana. I created this site to capture my experience abroad, and share it with the UCLA engineering community to implore you to do the same. The summer I spent in Africa was eye opening, life changing, and most definitely worth the applications, organization, and time it took to get myself halfway across the world. I am a huge advocate for the study abroad experience, and encourage you all invest in this experience that will push you to become the best engineering you can. Please feel free to reach out to me with questions or concerns about going abroad.
For more information, or to look into different programs, please go to:
Kylee Bauer
Email: kyleebauer11@gmail.com
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