“Engineering has a direct and vital impact on the quality of life for all people” (NSPE, 2007). This statement, from the Preamble of the Code of Ethics for Engineers, inspires me to train hard as an Engineering student. Everything around us, especially in these modern times, result from the dedicated work of engineers. We have green buildings, efficient public transport, and highly-efficient computer systems. In due time, I too, will be at the forefront of projects that will further improve the quality of life of our people. For now, though, I need to avail of opportunities that will enhance my skills, sharpen my mind, and deepen my capacity to interact with others.
Benefits of a study abroad program
The road to learning in today’s word is limitless. Our communication facilities are state of the art; our research facilities extend beyond our borders; and the choices of study areas are so extensive. There are so many schools of excellent reputation that have opened their campuses to accommodate learners from all over the world. I believe that the benefits offered by the study abroad programs, especially for first time out- of- the- country travelers like me, would far outweigh the inconveniences. Definitely, there would be periods of culture shock, homesickness, anxiety, and a feeling of not being able to cope. But, the interaction with classmates coming from other parts of the globe is a reward in itself. Initiating conversations with them, asking them about how they do things in their countries, and working with them in class activities will certainly broaden my perspectives. I may be in a place that is not familiar and probably might be out of my comfort zone, but that situation will strengthen my decision-making skills. This would also teach me the best ways mobilize resources.
Participating in the European Summer Program
The words “Live France, Study Europe 2013” is such an appealing invitation. Immediately it gives a picture of intense classroom interaction as well as visits to companies and business establishments in the heart of France. The European Summer Program (ESP) is the program that I am most interested in because of the (a) courses offered, and (b) learning environment. ESP is hosted by Université Catholique de Lille. Located at Lille, France, this esteemed institution was founded in 1875 and is now the largest university in France. US schools, such as the University of Memphis, are active partners of the program. ESP takes place in the summer of 2013 beginning in May 31 through July 23.
Courses offered. The three engineering courses offered this year addresses relevant issues in the field of engineering. One focuses on solar energy, another on energy management in buildings, and last one is on the environment. The learning methodologies in these courses include lectures, designing models, analysis of firms, interaction with people, and visits to companies/buildings that utilize the topics discussed in class. There is also an additional program that offers students a chance to be a part of the operations of a French company for another four weeks. All these courses, including the on-the-job training, supplement the courses I am taking in my home school.
Learning environment. Lille, France is located north of France. It is part of the urban center known as Lille Metropole. Lille is not just an educational center. It enjoys a reputation as having very good engineering and business schools. In fact, there are 14 Engineering schools in the region. It is estimated that there are more than 100,000 students of higher learning in Lille who are enrolled in different universities and schools (Van der Berg & Russo, 2004). For an engineering student from the US, there are so many opportunities to learn not only from the professors and classmates. The interactions with students from other universities will certainly be possible because of the high number of graduate students in the area. Since the Catholic University has been in Lille for centuries, it is closely integrated with the economic and social development of Lille. Being part of the university is truly advantageous because a lot of doors would be opened to ensure that students make the most of their stay in the school.
Personal growth and development
Every experience in life is an opportunity for growth. The study abroad program is one opportunity that I hope I would be able to experience. As an Engineering student who has never been out of the country before, I firmly believe that the study abroad program will definitely enhance my skills and capabilities. As a person from the Black community in the US, I believe I would be able to learn much from the diverse student population in the Lille region. I am a person who is ready to share my knowledge with others and would definitely work hard to contribute to group efforts as well.
As regards professional development, I am confident that everything I would gain from the study abroad program will definitely broaden my perspectives as a future engineer. The management and design of green infrastructure has been effectively practiced by French companies, that the knowledge gained from my observations and interaction will contribute to my own thinking process. I am confident that when granted the opportunity to become a part of the European Summer Program: the Academic Summer Package at the Heart of Europe, I would come back a better person with a deeper commitment to generate products and systems that positively impacts the lives of my fellow Americans.
References
National Society of Professional Engineers. (2007). NSPE Code of Ethics for Engineers. Retrieved from http://www.nspe.org/Ethics/CodeofEthics/index.html
Van den Berg, L. & Russo, A.P. (2004). The Student City: Strategic Planning For Student Communities In Eu Cities. England: Ashgate Publishing.
Universite de Catholique de Lille-France. (2013). European Summer Program: The Academic Summer Package at the Heart of Europe. Retrieved from https://memphis.studioabroad.com/_customtags/ct_FileRetrieve.cfm?File_ID=020471724F0670077170027D741F03077A001B0C0F7D026B0504040302777D77010001007B077672.
