Idaho is the punchline of more than a few jokes, most having something to do with potatoes. Often, however, we continuously hear the same lines over and over again. We hear that Idaho doesn’t have many opportunities available to us, that we’ll be trapped here forever and that we’ll never really be able to explore the rest of the world and other cultures. Eventually, it takes its toll.
These lines are wrong.
For the University of Idaho, located in the small, familiar city of Moscow, the campus might not seem diverse on the surface. Many new students might not be aware of the countless cultural opportunities available to them, both locally and internationally.
UI, when you look close enough, is diverse in every sense of the word.
Currently, the university is affiliated with more than 370 universities in 69 countries, and sends roughly 350 students abroad each year.
UI has the International Experience Grant, a student fee-funded study abroad scholarship that provides $157,000 yearly in study abroad scholarships. While this doesn’t seem like a lot, it’s a step in the right direction, and can potentially account for 5 percent to 10 percent of the total cost.
Many colleges do not offer such scholarships, and the national average cost to travel abroad sits at a hefty $18,000 per semester.
It can be a substantial drop in the bucket, but also a once in a lifetime opportunity.
It’s important to dig deeper and make the most of these college years. The university’s opportunities can be as diverse as one wants then to be, but can also seem shallow if the effort is not put in.
While studying abroad might not be for everyone, there are plenty of local ways students can broaden their horizons and learn more about other cultures.
Particularly for those who might not be interested in taking a semester off to travel abroad, these clubs and events can be great alternatives.
The Office of Multicultural Affairs hosts a number of events each year, with upcoming events such as Latinx Heritage Month (beginning Friday), Dia de los Muertos and Native American Heritage Month.
Additional upcoming events include the ongoing China Film Series, hosted by the UI Confucius Institute, and Bangladesh Night, hosted by the Bangladesh Association of Students and Scholars.
New students are always welcome to show up to these events, and while it can be daunting to step into unfamiliar territory, the reward will always be greater than the risk.
These events may last for just an evening or a week, but they add to our understanding of other cultures and our education.
Despite its small size and preconceptions, Moscow has something for everyone. After graduation, don’t look back on time at the university with regret.
Don’t think “What if?” Think of the opportunities seized and the experiences that will stick around for a lifetime.
— MR