By Molly McGinnis — JAMM Multicultural Journalism Camp
A Local Student Explores Foreign Exchange Programs
UI senior Cari Dighton traveled beyond textbooks and studied abroad for eight months in the West African nation of Ghana.
The international relations and journalism major’s first trip overseas lasted five months and she enjoyed the experience so much that she later returned for another two months.
She was able to work for a Ghana newspaper and said journalism is different in Ghana – business depends on sensationalism instead of substance.
“Only the most absurd stories graced the front page, hoping to hook customers,” Dighton said. She was fascinated by the cultural differences and said “…the experience was life changing.”
During her senior year, she added international relations as a second major.
When asked why so many students are choosing to spend time abroad, Dighton said she attributed her peers’ curiosity to social media and the current state of the economy.
“The world is so much more interconnected that it used to be because of social media,” she said. “Also, it could be because of the job market here. More people are looking for jobs here than over there. It can be easier to find employment in other countries.”
Even for those who plan on staying in the U.S., foreign exchange programs are a good investment, she said.
“Employers like to know you’re flexible. It kind of tells a lot about you if you’re able to adapt to this kind of thing, there are just more job opportunities,” she said.
There are seemingly limitless opportunities in terms of the country one chooses to visit, with the most popular destinations being Ecuador, Italy and Spain, and while you may need to update your passport, financial problems should not keep you at the gate, Dighton said.
The tuition for attending school in Ghana was $7,000 for five months, compared to $3,000 per semester at University of Idaho. However, each application is considered for a scholarship and most of the students who apply early enough receive generous financial aid.
The foreign exchange program is granted $100,000 in scholarships every semester.
In September, Cari Dighton is going to Madrid, Spain. She will teach English and immerse herself in a new language as she contemplates her next career move.
She has considered taking the Foreign Service Exam to work for the State Department, or possibly applying to graduate school. She does not intend to pursue a master’s degree in journalism.
“Getting a background in something more specific would help with your writing, and also prepare you for different kinds of work. It’s a good idea to take language classes if you’re doing something global,” Dighton said. “Also, if you’re doing a double major, just look at the requirements for both and prepare for both.”
Dighton started out with a rough idea of what she wanted to do and studying abroad allowed her to pursue what she loves.
